Same-sex attracted parents' emotional transitions to parenthood

Abstract

The journey to parenthood for same-sex attracted parents can include specific emotional challenges. The greater likelihood of using in-vitro fertilisation or surrogacy can incur financial burdens and loss of autonomy. The process of family formation can be arduous and full of compromises, and the trauma and associated grief can go unrecognised. Identity as a lesbian, gay or transgendered person can initially conflict with identity as a parent, potentially impacting on the relationship with children or couple relationships. Support for parenting cannot be guaranteed from families of origin, workplaces or social networks, where persistant homophobic attitudes exist. In the context of shifting ..