While many people believe that concealed pregnancies are a thing of the past, this is simply not the case, researchers from Trinity College Dublin (TCD) are insisting.

They have just launched a major new research project and are appealing to women who are currently concealing a pregnancy, or who have done so in the past, to take part.

A concealed pregnancy refers to a situation where a woman keeps her pregnancy a secret from her family and social network. This can lead to serious physical and mental health consequences for both the woman and her baby, including maternal or neonatal death.

According to the researchers from TCD's School of Nursing and Midwifery, while many people believe that concealed pregnancies belong to the era of mother and baby homes, they still occur today. The team is hoping to make these women's voices heard and to shape policies that will respond appropriately to their needs.

"Many women and children suffered in the past from their experiences of mother and baby homes and other negative societal and familial responses to pregnancy. However, women are still keeping pregnancies secret in Ireland today and we need to get an understanding of the complex reasons behind this phenomenon so that we can respond more effectively," commented researcher and midwife, Sylvia Murphy Tighe.

Various studies in Ireland along with the experiences of healthcare professionals suggest that one in every 403 pregnancies in rural Ireland are concealed at least up to 20 weeks gestation, and one in every 625 in Dublin.

A study carried out by NUI Galway in 2012 found that one in every 148 pregnancies are concealed up to 20 weeks gestation.

Reasons for concealment include domestic abuse, financial worries, cultural and/or religious influences, age, parental opinion and the lack of a partner.

"There may be a sense in society that only teenagers conceal pregnancies. However, our research and the experience of midwives, social workers and GPs have confirmed that women of all ages, including older women and women within and outside of relationships may keep their pregnancy secret," Ms Murphy Tighe noted.

She is appealing to anyone who is currently concealing a pregnancy, or has done so in the past, to share their story. All participants will be dealt with in complete confidence and will be treated sensitively.

Ms Murphy Tighe can be contacted by email at smurphyt@tcd.ie or by phone on 087 981 7340.

This research is being funded by the Health Research Board.

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