A narrative synthesis of lesbian and bisexual mothers’ experiences of maternity care

AIMS: To explore and synthesise qualitative research about the experience of maternity care for lesbian and bisexual mothers. To provide recommendations to healthcare providers on how to support lesbian and bisexual mothers during their maternity experience. BACKGROUND: The past 14 years has seen significant legal changes for same-sex parents worldwide. Previous reviews of lesbian mothers' experiences of maternity care identified that they experience covert and overt homophobia during their maternity care journey; that curiosity and knowledge of lesbian and bisexual life is important for healthcare professionals, and disclosure of sexual orientation can feel risky. METHOD: Five databases were searched for studies published from May 2011 to December 2024. Qualitative research studies published in English that explored the maternity care experience of lesbian and/or bisexual mothers were included. Stenfors criteria for quality bias assessment was used, 10 studies were included. Findings were synthesised using a narrative synthesis approach. FINDINGS: Four categories were identified, these were: 'heteronormativity', 'acceptance and inclusion', 'finding your own path', and 'knowledge and power of professionals'. The findings are discussed in the context of current research and compared to the findings of the previous systematic review. KEY RECOMMENDATIONS: Recommendations for maternity healthcare providers and healthcare professionals have been provided and include: an increased awareness of how heteronormative views and assumptions can present in services, education on how to challenge and reduce heteronormativity for healthcare professionals, explicit acceptance to be offered, and for professionals to be more aware of the power they may hold.