Midwife’s interventions to promote positive experiences for female homosexual couples during pregnancy: A scoping review

Abstract

Introduction: The emergence of new meanings of the term family and the current connection to heteronormativity mean there should be an investment on the acknowledgement of the LGBT community's needs, with the goal of reaching equality. This article aims to analyze the experience of female homosexual couples overseeing pregnancy, identify the interventions carried out by obstetric nurses, which facilitate the above couples’ transition to parenthood, and identify the difficulties experienced by pregnant women.

Methods: Research was carried out by MeSH 2021 Headings, via the following databases Bireme, MEDLINE Complete, PubMed and CINAHL Complete. 352 results were identified, and based on the inclusive and exclusive criteria outlined, five articles were included. When in contact with healthcare professionals, female homosexuals experience heterosexism, meaning homophobia and the expectation of heterosexuality, a lack of support and education, which exacerbates these women's stress levels whilst transitioning to parenthood; this transition will be addressed according to the Transitions Theory of Afaf Meleis.

Results: The LGBT community is an important component in the life of a pregnant woman. Healthcare professionals should invest in educating themselves with the objective of evaluating what is required on a social level, reproductive health and the family construct in a way which enhances the therapeutic relationship, also taking into account that the impact of sexual orientation on pregnancy outcomes is unclear.

Conclusions: According to the research found, it is crucial that nurses and particularly obstetric nurses improve their communication skills and attitudes, so as to promote a better relationship with these women. It is important that multidisciplinary teams provide continuous education on this topic in order to provide holistic care, free from discrimination or heterosexism.