IBD and Mums-To-Be: Transition to Motherhood Within the Context of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

There is a severe patient knowledge deficit about pregnancy and IBD resulting in women with IBD being more likely than healthy controls to remain voluntarily childless. It is surprising, therefore, that there is little research on the topic. Hence, this study addresses the research question: ‘What is the lived experience of women who transition to motherhood within the context of Inflammatory Bowel Disease?’. The study recruited 22 mothers with IBD (11CD, 10UC, 1 IBDu) who had at least one biological child of a young age (roughly 2 to 7 years old). The sample was predominantly White (N=16) as well as educated and affluent. First, convenience and purposive sampling were used to maximize diversity of geographical location and experience (e.g., having an external pouch); and then theoretical sampling was used to close gaps in understanding of the experience of mothers with IBD. Face-to-face semi-structured interviews (N=20) and via Skype (N=2) were conducted, most of which were video-recorded (N=21). The data were analysed using Thematic Analysis. Three separate analyses were produced and represented in three separate chapters, each focusing on one central concept: Blurred Lines, Transitional Challenges, and Reflecting on Others. Six key findings span these three separate analyses. First, prior to the transition to motherhood, women experience difficulties establishing a relationship of trust with healthcare providers and some assume their IBD would be a barrier in forming romantic relationships. Second, managing IBD symptoms can help prepare women for their transition to motherhood. Third, there is a misconception that IBD medication can damage the foetus and the child during breastfeeding. Fourth, women can experience a diagnosis shadowing whereby their pregnancy and IBD symptoms can be conflated. Fifth, transition to motherhood with IBD is facilitated by having an extensive network of support. Sixth, having IBD and becoming a mother are both associated with loss of identity, of freedom, of friendships, and of intimacy for some women. These findings are of practical relevance to women with IBD, their partners, and healthcare providers and have been disseminated throughout the duration of the study including via ‘YouTube Medleys’ created with permission using video-recorded extracts from the interviews.