What motivates women to conceal pregnancies?

WHAT thoughts went through Ann Lovett’s mind as she awaited the birth of her secret baby 30 years ago will never be known, but a major research project over the next three years will try to better understand what drives expectant mothers to conceal their pregnancies.

The ‘Keeping it Secret’ study is being undertaken by Sylvia Murphy-Tighe, an experienced midwife and lecturer at University of Limerick from Co Clare, with the backing of the Health Research Board and Trinity College Dublin.

Her posters seeking contact from women who are concealing pregnancies, or have done so in the recent past, will soon be appearing in Student Union offices and healthcare and welfare settings.