Reproductive decision making: interviews with mothers of children with undiagnosed developmental delay

Emily Pond, Rebecca Dimond

Reproductive decision making is complex and personal. Having a child with undiagnosed developmental delay can further complicate these decisions, as recurrence risks are unknown. This qualitative study is an exploration of the experiences of parents who have a child with an undiagnosed developmental disorder, focusing on their reproductive decisions. The aims of the research were to explore the reproductive decision making process and examine the factors that influence these decisions. Data were collected from in-depth semi-structured interviews with five mothers of children without a diagnosis. Transcripts were analysed using an interpretative phenomenological analysis. Analysis identified five factors that were considered by participants when contemplating reproductive decisions: future uncertainty, perceptions of risk, the potential impact a child would have on their current children, expectations of a family and the desire for another child. Being aware of the factors that influence reproductive decisions for these mothers and being sensitive to them can enable genetic counsellors to carry out their role more effectively, as they are aware of the factors that need to be discussed and explored before a decision is made.