A supportive intervention protocol for couples terminating a pregnancy for genetic reasons.

This protocol recognizes the couple's sense of loss, the reality of their situation, and their decision to terminate the pregnancy. Couples who participated in our protocol reported that their involvement had a favorable effect on their experience and adjustment. In addition, the loss of the pregnancy does not seem to discourage them from pursuing future pregnancies or utilizing prenatal diagnostic services. This support protocol may be used as a model to be incorporated into prenatal diagnosis clinics and genetic counseling programs.