ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the experiences of partnered lesbian women who choose motherhood with particular emphasis on access to and experiences of perinatal services. It explores the process of making the decision to have a baby, various methods of conceiving, pregnancy and birth, and the complexities of same-sex parenthood. The chapter draws from the findings of a qualitative, Australian study carried out by the author and colleagues that aimed to examine the experiences of lesbian women who chose motherhood. A case study based on women's stories is offered to highlight the challenges experienced by lesbian women when accessing maternity services. The chapter presents a case study which illuminates the issues mentioned so far, and which highlights the potential stigmatising and discriminatory behaviours that non-birth mothers, and de novo families can face by midwifery professionals. Toward the end of the pregnancy, Jemima and Angela attended an antenatal class at their local hospital, where they were booked-in to give birth to their baby.
