What's wrong with using the F word? A systematic integrative review of how the fetus is talked about in situations of fetal demise or high risk of fetal loss

•The 23 included studies represented the voices of women, their partners and allied health professionals.•The term ‘Baby’ is the most widely recognised word used in instances of fetal loss and high risk of fetal demise.•Gender identification- naming the fetus in utero.•Medical diagnosis or terminology used to label the fetus instead of using the word fetus or baby.•Euphemisms to name the fetus.•Parents and health care professionals distancing themselves by using words that are non specific or not naming the fetus at all.•This review contributes new insights into our understanding of the term ‘fetus’.•Need for further research into the way the fetus is addressed and dealt with in instances of fetal loss or high risk of fetal loss within Maternity care practices.