The experience of women combining fertility treatment and paid employment: women's narratives

Date
2011
Authors
Walker, Serena Anne
Supervisor
Goedeke, Sonja
Payne, Deborah
Item type
Thesis
Degree name
Master of Health Science
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Auckland University of Technology
Abstract

The use of fertility treatments, including in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) has increased significantly in the past three decades (Wang, Chambers, Dieng, & Sullivan, 2009) as has the proportion of women in the workforce (Statistics New Zealand, 2006). Psychological implications have been associated with fertility treatments, including psychological distress, depression, and identity issues (Ulrich & Weatherall, 2000). Research has alluded to the challenge for women combining fertility treatment and paid employment. However, no targeted research has focused specifically on this. Using a narrative approach informed by a social constructionist and third-wave feminist lens, this study sought to explore how combining fertility treatment and paid employment was experienced by women. Employing a narrative perspective defined as holistic-content (Lieblich, Tuval-Mashiach, & Zilber, 1998), individual narratives were analysed for unique themes and motivations. Final analysis was undertaken with a thematic narrative analytical approach (Riessman, 2008). Themes such as private versus public narratives, failing as a woman and related identity challenges were observed. It is hoped that the findings discussed could assist mental health practitioners in supporting this cohort and may offer insights into appropriate work-place policy development.

Description
Keywords
Narrative , IVF , Psychology , Identity
Source
DOI
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