Parental (in)equality and the genetic link in lesbian families

Abstract

Objective: In this qualitative study, we investigate how lesbian couples experience and deal with the difference in genetic relatedness in their family. Background: Previous research showed that lesbian couples handle the difference with regard to genetic relatedness by, for instance, creating a narrative about physical resemblances or by focusing on the social bond and its influence on children. Methods: The findings are based on qualitative in-depth interviews with 10 lesbian couples who had at least one donor-conceived child aged 7–10. Results: The difference with regard to the genetic link brought up complex and context-specific experiences for these parents. Generally, the genetic link was described as irrelevant: equality between both parents was presented as a given. However, some experiences of difference due to the presence of one genetic link were found. In these accounts, the genetic link was described as a valuable extra that created an inequality between them as parents. Conclusion: The findings show that these mothers have a complex attitude towards genetic relatedness.

Keywords:

• assisted reproduction
• gamete donation
• qualitative research
• family relationships
• bioethics

Acknowledgements

We thank all the families for participating in this study. All the other members of the research team are acknowledged for their efforts in recruitment, interviewing, transcribing and team discussions: Elia Wyverkens, An Ravelingien, Sara Somers and Isabelle Stuyver.