Background: Few studies have explored ethical and legal issues in contraceptive counselling among women with intellectual disability (ID). This study aimed to gain a deeper understanding of these issues during midwifery contraceptive counselling.
Method: The present authors interviewed 19 midwives in five focus groups in Sweden 2016 - 2017 and analysed data with content analysis.
Results: The participants expressed that women with intellectual disability have equal right to relationships and sexual expressions, but feared exposure to sexual exploitation/abuse. They experienced ethical dilemmas related to principles of fairness and autonomy, but strived to provide assistance in spite of the women's cognitive impairment, presence of supporting persons and uncertainty of optimal counselling. Organizational support was insufficient.
Conclusions: The midwives experienced ambivalence, uncertainty and ethical dilemmas in their counselling. They were, however, aware of legal aspects and strived for the women's best interest, right to self-determination and autonomous choices. The participants wanted better professional teamwork and support.
Keywords: contraceptive counselling; ethical dilemma; intellectual disability; legal aspects; midwife; woman.
© 2019 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.