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cc-by-nc-nd (c)  Mallorquí, A. et al., 2026
Si us plau utilitzeu sempre aquest identificador per citar o enllaçar aquest document: https://hdl.handle.net/2445/230494

Time-course evolution of counterfactual thinking after early pregnancy loss

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Counterfactual thinking (CT), the tendency to consider how events might have been different, is a common cognitive process following negative life events. This longitudinal study examines the prevalence and time-course evolution of CT immediately after early pregnancy loss. A sample of 119 women who experienced early pregnancy loss completed an online psychological assessment measuring traumatic impact, trait rumination, and CT presence, frequency, and content. The survey was administered at one week, one month, and four months post-loss. CT was highly prevalent (72%) and decreased over time. 99% of CT had an upward focus, imagining a better outcome than reality. Moreover, 91.6% were also self-referential, perceived as dependent on one’s own behaviors and emotions, frequently involving a heightened sense of personal responsibility for the loss. Rumination and traumatic impact predicted counterfactual thinking frequency over time, identifying psychological risk patterns. Findings support the idea that CT may serve an adaptive function by helping to process the loss and support future goal setting, including subsequent pregnancy. However, in individuals with high traumatic impact and rumination, CT may contribute to prolonged distress. Integrating psychological care alongside physical healthcare is essential to promoting long-term well-being after early pregnancy loss.

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MALLORQUÍ, Aida, et al. Time-course evolution of counterfactual thinking after early pregnancy loss. Scientific Reports. 2026. Vol. 16, num. 14216. ISSN 2045-2322. [consulted: 10 of July of 2026]. Available at: https://hdl.handle.net/2445/230494

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