Exploring the impact of fibromyalgia on pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period

Smith, Lucy, West, Helen ORCID: 0000-0001-8712-5890, Jackson, Leanne ORCID: 0000-0003-4491-1802, Herron, Katie and Cherry, Mary Gemma (2026) Exploring the impact of fibromyalgia on pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period Journal of Reproductive and Infant Psychology, ahead- (ahead-). pp. 1-20. ISSN 0264-6838, 1469-672X

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Abstract

Background: Fibromyalgia is a stigmatised chronic pain condition, commonly experienced by females of child-bearing age. Fibromyalgia negatively impacts on quality of life, mental and physical health, and relationships. However, little is known about how women and birthing people (WBP)¹ living with fibromyalgia adjust to new parenthood. The current study aimed to address this literature gap. Methods: Fifteen WBP with fibromyalgia were interviewed about their experiences of pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results: The current study aimed to explore WBP’s experiences of adjustment to parenthood in the context of living with fibromyalgia. Two themes (‘Walking in the dark’ [sub-themes: the elephant in the room; overlooked for breaking the perinatal mould)] and ‘Learning to work with their condition’ [sub-themes: Boom (pregnancy) and bust (postpartum); compassion towards pain]) were identified. Conclusion: Gaps in practitioner knowledge left participants feeling invalidated. While symptoms often eased during pregnancy, many struggled postpartum to balance childcare with their condition. Greater monitoring and support are needed, including pain management and psychological care. Recommendations include proactively discussing fibromyalgia in routine appointments, validating experiences and offering appropriate referrals. Multidisciplinary care and opportunities for peer support may also foster self-compassion and acceptance for these WBP.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Fibromyalgia, chronic pain, perinatal, lived experience, quality of life, maternity care
Divisions:	Faculty of Health & Life Sciences Faculty of Health & Life Sciences > Inst. Population Health Faculty of Health & Life Sciences > Inst. Population Health > Psychology
Depositing User:	Symplectic Admin
Date Deposited:	06 Jan 2026 16:15
Last Modified:	16 Jun 2026 16:51
DOI:	10.1080/02646838.2025.2606006
Open Access URL:	https://doi.org/10.1080/02646838.2025.2606006
Related Websites:	Author Publisher
URI:	https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/3196482
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