The experience of men and women with cystic fibrosis who have become a parent: a qualitative study.

Abstract

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To explore the experiences of men and women with cystic fibrosis in becoming parents. BACKGROUND: As lifespan for people with cystic fibrosis increases, and reproductive technology advances, having a child of their own becomes a possibility. DESIGN: This study utilised a phenomenological framework. METHODS: Seven Australian adults with cystic fibrosis were invited to describe their experiences of becoming parents in the context of a semi-structured interview. Analysis of the data involved highlighting recurrent phrases and isolating emergent themes. RESULTS: Two overarching themes characterised the participants' experience: Counting the cost, as they recalled Concentric communication and Pathways to pregnancy; and Living the dream, as they cast a retrospective view over this, their major achievement, in light of their Reaction: a dream comes true, Coping: a question of balance, Conjecture: the future redefined and Confidence: recalibrating. CONCLUSIONS: While advances in cystic fibrosis care and reproductive technology have increased the possibility of individuals with cystic fibrosis becoming parents, the passage to becoming a parent is a complex process. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: These findings can inform health professionals to support the adaptive work necessary for families that include members with cystic fibrosis. A contemporary understanding of this phenomenon is necessary for facilitating clinically relevant communication. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Authors Jessup, Melanie; Li, Anne; Fulbrook, Paul; Bell, Scott
Journal JOURNAL OF CLINICAL NURSING
Pages 1702-1712
Volume 27
Date 1/12/2017
Grant ID
Funding Body Queensland Health
URL http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=10.1111/jocn.14229