ABSTRACT
Many of the memories of stillbirths were recounted by the midwives in the form of pictures. Midwives are taught the importance of recording events in detail: time, place, individuals present, conversations and instructions given, and outcomes. The triggers and associations that evoked the lasting memories of the midwives varied considerably. Mementos that midwives give to mothers of stillborn babies are given in the hope that they will help the mother reconcile her ideas about what might have been with reality. Sonia and Lesley’s accounts are linked together, in that they identified with mothers of stillborn babies who were themselves midwives. The midwives had differing opinions as to whether their home was an acceptable place to discuss the ramifications of the tragic events to which they were party. Experience informed one midwife that the use of visualisation, solitude, privacy and appropriate music was effective in helping her to cope with stressful situations.
