Foetal death is defined as the intrauterine foetal death (IUFD), in which there is no heart activity, breath movements, pulsation of the umbilical cord and no signs of life. According to WHO, a praterm delivery differs from a miscarriage by the barrier of the 22nd week (154 days). In case of doubts as to a gestational age, it is the weight of the foetus (500 grams) on the basis of which it is decided whether it is a miscarriage or the intrauterine foetal death. In developing countries, the proportion of foetal deaths is higher than in the rest of the world. Among factors which negatively influence such a state of affairs are age, obesity, the first pregnancy, an eventful perinatal history, bleeding or infections. In order to diagnose the intrauterine foetal death it is necessary to conduct the ultrasound examination supported by two independent people. It is undeniable that this situation has got a long – term effect on the woman’s psyche. Research shows that 20% of women affected by the intrauterine foetal death suffer from postpartum depression and another 20% experience symptoms of a posttraumatic distress syndrome. This experience can be compared to the reaction to a catastrophe. In this case, parents experience reactions on the cognitive as well as intellectual levels. There are different phases of emotion dynamics as well as mourning stages which are sequentially experienced in order to fully recover.

Key words: pregnancy, miscarriage, grieving, mental health.