Case prevalence of psychological disorders is unknown. More good quality research is needed. The social role of fathers as carers for their partners needs recognition when planning care for bereaved families.

The vulnerability of fathers to psychological distress during the pregnancy after a stillbirth needs to be recognised.

Following an outline of what is already known about the psychological effects of perinatal loss, the paper focuses on the evidence that aspects of psychosocial management are associated with better outcomes. It goes on to describe the cultural context in which psychosocial management changed and parents were first encouraged to see and handle their dead infant, and explores the distinction between the medical and cultural models which may frame this behaviour in very different ways. Finally, it briefly discusses the ethical position of staff who advise parents about their choice to see or not see their infant's body.