The Mateu Orfila Hospital has introduced a “cuddle cot” as part of its perinatal bereavement care protocol. This special cooling crib allows parents to spend more time with their baby after a loss, providing an opportunity for farewell and helping families navigate their grief more compassionately.

The initiative was presented to coincide with International Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day, held every October 15. The event was led by Dr Sara Ovejero (gynaecologist), Manuel Rego (head nurse of the maternity ward), Magda Marquès (psychologist), and José Luis Moncada (head of porters), representing the hospital’s Perinatal Bereavement Committee. Also present was Dr Elizabeth Mármol, a hospital gynaecologist who proposed the idea after experiencing the loss of her daughter Emilia in December 2023.

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Mateu Orfila Hospital

The concept of cuddle cots originated with “El legado de Oliver”, an initiative by Natalie and Manel, created in memory of their son, who was born still in 2020. Inspired by their example, Mateu Orfila Hospital acquired its own cuddle cot as part of its commitment to humanise care and provide emotional support to families affected by perinatal loss.

Since 2019, the hospital has implemented a comprehensive perinatal bereavement protocol, which includes offering families a “memory box” containing keepsakes such as the baby’s clothing, hand and foot prints, identification bracelet, and photos. Families also receive a condolence letter and written guidance on coping with grief, along with a list of resources, including books, websites, and support associations. When needed, the hospital’s midwife, primary care physician, and palliative care psychologist provide follow-up support at home.

Additionally, the hospital organised a training session for 26 healthcare professionals, aimed at updating knowledge and promoting best practices in the emotional, clinical, and social support of families who experience perinatal loss. The session covered communication during traumatic events, available healthcare resources, and the response protocols for cases of loss occurring late in pregnancy, during birth, or shortly after delivery.

With this initiative, Mateu Orfila Hospital strengthens its commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care, ensuring families receive sensitive support in one of the most difficult moments of their lives.