Self-Reported Depressive Symptoms in Lesbian Birth Mothers and Comothers

Abstract

Despite the frequency of postpartum depression, little is known about the experiences of lesbian birth mothers and their female partners, or comothers. In this modest yet important exploratory investigation, 20 lesbian mothers completed a survey of self-reported postpartum depressive symptoms (PDS) and related risk factors. Results indicate that some lesbian mothers experience PDS, slightly more social support from friends than family, heterosexism/homophobia from family and health care providers, mostly negative changes to the couple relationship, a relatively equal division of labor, and legal hurdles to creating a family. The article concludes with culturally competent, gay-affirmative practice recommendations for family practitioners.

KEYWORDS:

• lesbian parents
• gay-affirmative practice
• postpartum depression
• risk/protective factors

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The authors wish to thank Drs. Priscilla “Lilly” Allen and Sandy Beverly for their comments on an earlier version.