The perinatal experience of same-sex couples who reside in Malta when making use of assisted reproduction technology (ART)

Abstract

This study explores the narratives of two lesbian couples who used assisted reproduction technology (ART) and experienced the perinatal period in Malta. The stories that were told and their meanings were examined, as well as protective and predisposing factors considered. The couples participated in semi-structured interviews, individually and together as a couple. A narrative methodology and a conceptual framework based on systems theory were used to analyse the data (Josselson & Hammack, 2021). The results indicate that while both couples went through the perinatal period between 2020 and 2022, their accounts and perspectives varied significantly. The dominant narrative appears to be shaped by the intersectionality of identities, such as being a lesbian, age, and being the non-birth parent. The narrative is also greatly influenced by the participants’ personal experiences of growing up nonheteronormative in a heteronormative society. Finally, protective and risk factors that were influenced by the couples’ intersectionality of identities and past experiences impacted each relationship and individual. The findings of this study are valuable to other couples who are contemplating pursuing ART. Implications concerning the choices and interventions made by practitioners and policy makers that impact the experiences of same-sex couples are also presented.