A phenomenological exploration of non-carrying mothers in same-gender relationships experiences of a psychologically traumatic birth

Aims/Background: Birth trauma is increasingly recognised in policy and practice, yet remains focused on birthing women, also holding the assumption that families involve only one of these. This research explored psychologically traumatic birth experiences in non-carrying mothers in same-gender relationships, and how they made sense of these experiences. 

Design/Methods: Interviews were conducted with eight participants recruited via social media and charities, analysed using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis. Sample demographics were homogeneous; all self-identified as Black, lesbian, first-time mothers. 

Results and discussion: Four themes were developed: ‘anticipated and realised threats’, ‘navigating identities and roles in the transition to motherhood’, ‘importance of feeling understood and accepted by others’ and ‘adapting to a new normal’. Participants’ reported threat often began during pregnancy, influenced through prior experiences of perinatal loss, trauma, and stressors related to holding minoritised identities, specifically concerning sexuality and race. Challenges were experienced related to navigating dual identities as both a partner and mother, with prevalent feelings of resentment, invisibility, shame, and not being ‘good enough’. Most experienced stigma and discrimination, from within and outside their families, and valued spaces where they felt accepted, including through connecting with other LGBTQ+ parents. Implications for subsequent reproductive choices were voiced, typically linked to efforts to prevent repeated trauma. 

Conclusion: Psychologically traumatic birth may be experienced by any parent, bringing significant impacts for individuals and their relationships. Intersectional approaches that recognise diverse routes to parenthood are needed to inform and evaluate family-focused support provision, which may include facilitating couples’ navigation of reproductive choices.