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Human-rights instruments now recognise the rights of women with disabilities in relation to motherhood. Sexual and reproductive rights are basic human rights; that is, they belong to everyone without distinction and on an equal basis, whether or not a person has a disability. Everyone has the right to live their sexuality and reproductive life fully according to their own wishes, preferences and choices. Nevertheless, despite progressive advances in this area, motherhood among persons with disabilities remains a taboo subject in our society. For women with disabilities, social stereotypes and prejudices negatively affect their ability to make free and informed decisions about sexuality and, consequently, motherhood. The following paragraphs therefore address some myths surrounding this issue.
Historically, myths have portrayed persons with disabilities as asexual and dependent, and they have often been seen as incapable of making decisions about their sexuality. There is also a perception that if women with disabilities may face certain difficulties caring for themselves, they will be even less able to raise their children.[1]In addition, social conditions and public policies often fail to take into account the particular needs of this group.[2]As a result, the possibility of becoming a mother can seem distant or, at times, unattainable from the perspective of some persons with disabilities and society.
Nevertheless, many persons with disabilities lead autonomous lives despite the barriers they encounter. Disability does not prevent these women from raising their children, and children can grow up alongside disability naturally.[3]Although women with disabilities are aware of their own circumstances, environmental barriers and any additional support they may need, this does not mean that they cannot be mothers. Motherhood among persons with disabilities can also raise doubts within the group itself about whether they will be good mothers, be able to care for a baby or child, or whether their children may be born with a disability.[4]These doubts, however, are shared by many future mothers.
It is therefore necessary to raise awareness that women with disabilities can live independently and, if they choose, become mothers. Myths surrounding disability must be dismantled along this path. It is important to strengthen the autonomy and independence of women with disabilities. Autonomy must also be supported within families in order to avoid overprotection and allow women to decide for themselves whether or not to become mothers.[5]It is not enough merely to issue declarations recognising rights. Awareness-raising campaigns on motherhood among women with disabilities are also needed, together with guarantees of their right to the free development of personality. In other words, these rights must be made effective in practice. Both the State and society have important roles to play. Women’s groups and other organisations continue to advocate actively for the right to motherhood and related rights.
Bibliographic references:
[1] Pascual, M. D. P. G. (2016). La sexualidad y la maternidad como factores adicionales de discriminación (y violencia) en las mujeres con discapacidad. Revista Española de Discapacidad (REDIS), 4(2), 123-142.
[2] Cruz Pérez, M. D. P. (2015). Acceso a derechos sexuales y reproductivos de las mujeres con discapacidad: el papel de las y los prestadores de servicios. La ventana. Revista de estudios de género, 5(42), 7-45.
[3] Carreja Castrege, L. (2020). Maternidad y discapacidad: experiencia en el cuidado de los hijos/as.
[4] Martínez-Romero, M. (2016). Maternidad y discapacidad.
[5] Narváez, A. P., Ríos, B. M., & Gallego, M. L. (2009). Maternidad y discapacidad (No. 1). CERMI.
