Experiences of women with sickle cell disease who experienced pregnancy losses

Objective: To understand the experiences of women with sickle cell disease in the face of pregnancy losses caused by spontaneous and stillborn abortion. Methods: This is a descriptive, exploratory study with a qualitative approach, developed with 20 women diagnosed with sickle cell disease and treated at a reference clinic in the city of Salvador-BA. Data collection was carried out from July to September 2017, through semi-structured interviews and analysis was performed using the Discourse of the Collective Subject. Results: The results indicate 4 central axes: Women's emotional status is altered in the process of spontaneous abortion; After everything was prepared for birth, loss came with a stillborn fetus, Partner and family support generates strength to support the loss process, The absence of a qualified team and institutional racism intensify feelings in the loss process. Conclusion: It is concluded that the pain experienced in the experience and the crisis immediately installed in the lives of these women are little welcomed by the health system and felt as not seen by society. They feel the need for someone else who understands their pain and not just those who have had an equal experience.