BACKGROUND:
Early pregnancy loss (before 13 weeks gestation) is common but often unrecognized due to absent registration in Flanders. Affected women and their partners frequently experience feelings of isolation, grief and insufficient emotional and practical support. Current healthcare provision does not always meet their needs, highlighting a gap in midwifery and perinatal care. In recent years, more individuals have started to openly share their experiences with early pregnancy loss, contributing to growing societal and professional awareness of this often-silenced issue. This increased visibility underscores the importance of developing responsive and inclusive care practices.

OBJECTIVES:
To explore the experiences and support needs of women and partners after early pregnancy loss and to develop evidence-based recommendations to enhance midwifery care and emotional support in Flanders.

METHODS:
A mixed-methods study combining literature review, surveys, and in-depth interviews with women and partners who experienced early pregnancy loss. Data collection runs from 2024–2026. Qualitative data is analysed thematically; survey results are examined using descriptive and comparative statistics. The study is funded by project-based scientific research provided by the government.

RESULTS:
Preliminary findings indicate women and partners desire recognition of their loss, compassionate communication, and tailored follow-up care. Although full data collection is ongoing, we anticipate presenting early findings and emerging themes at the congress.

CONCLUSIONS:
This study aims to improve care around early pregnancy loss based on the results anticipated by the time of the conference.

KEY MESSAGE:
Addressing early pregnancy loss with sensitive, evidence-based care is crucial for supporting women and their partners’ emotional well-being and strengthening midwifery practices in Flanders. Pregnancy loss