[Health and psychosocial effects of miscarriage].

The importance of psychosocial consequences of spontaneous abortion is increasingly pointed out. Different studies showed grief responses in about 50-80% of the women and consequences on occupation, martial relation and family life. The most observed long-term consequences are chronical depressive disorders. Unresolved grief in connection with pregnancy loss is to be considered an important risk factor. Immunological studies demonstrated a reduction of T-lymphocyte function in grief and depression as a probable cause of a higher disease risk. Further study is required for more precise definitions of long-term effects. Moreover psychosocial help and counseling for the couples after the pregnancy loss could help to prevent serious chronical disorders.