Concealed Pregnancy: A Misunderstood Phenomenon

• Duration: 60 Mins
• Credits: 1 CERP, 1 R-CERP, 1 Nurse Contact Hours, 0.1 Midwifery CEU, 1 ACM CPD Hours, 1 ACNM
• Learning Format: Webinar
• Handout: Yes
• Origin: GOLD Learning

Abstract:

Concealed pregnancy is a contested issue and ambiguity relating to definitions has hindered practice/policy developments. This presentation aims to assist participants understanding of concealed pregnancy. A range of terms have been used such as concealed, denied, disavowed, negated, cryptic, rejected and secret pregnancy. Women who experience a concealed pregnancy are sometimes pathologised or demonised, with reductive definitions characterising them. Research and practice surrounding concealed pregnancy predominantly privileges the views of professionals. The literature generally approaches concealed pregnancy from a biomedical perspective with links made to mental illness (Murphy Tighe and Lalor 2016a) yet research into neonaticide found psychopathology was rare. Concealed pregnancy is a fearful and traumatic experience with lifelong consequences which must be fully understood as some women are paralysed and unable to access healthcare if they have experienced early life traumatic/abusive experiences. This presentation draws on research funded by the Health Research Board, Ireland. Data includes interviews with thirty women who experienced a concealed pregnancy, as well data from twenty two cases of public interest drawn from media reports, serious case reviews into infant deaths and interactions with professionals. Contemporary cases will be used and vignettes from women will provide context to the evidence based literature on concealed pregnancy.

Learning Objectives: