Evaluation of: Gold KJ, Boggs, ME Mugisha E, Palladina CL. Internet message boards for pregnancy loss: who’s on-line and why? Womens Health Issues doi:10.1016/j.whi.2011.07.006 (2011) (Epub ahead of print).

Women who experience pregnancy loss are frequently turning to the internet for information and support, making it critical to understand the impact of online communication forums as emerging technologies, including patterns of utilization, perceived benefits and iatrogenic effects. An anonymous internet survey posted on 18 active US message boards related to pregnancy loss revealed that the 1006 respondents appeared different to the epidemiologic distribution of women with pregnancy loss in that most were white and highly educated. Most reported great satisfaction, stating they had learned new medical information from the boards, felt less isolated and more validated in their loss and grief and valued the unique features of online communication (e.g., privacy, anonymity and convenience). In addition to research assessing usage, utility, functionality and impact of internet resources for pregnancy loss, an examination of racial and cultural differences in coping with pregnancy loss and internet-mediated support, and opportunities for telemental healthcare are warranted.