Psychological well-being in adults with cystic fibrosis during pregnancy and parenthood: A systematic review

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic condition affecting multiple organ systems, and advances in CFTR modulator therapies have improved both life expectancy and reproductive possibilities. However, the psychological impact of pregnancy and parenthood for PwCF remains underexplored. This review synthesised qualitative research published between 1998 and 2025 to examine how pregnancy and parenthood shape the psychological well-being of PwCF. Searches were conducted across PsychInfo, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus and PubMed and eligible studies were appraised and synthesised using thematic methods. Eighteen studies were identified. The synthesis highlighted four overarching themes illustrating the emotional and psychological complexity of becoming a parent with CF. Participants described navigating hope, fear, guilt and shifting identities while balancing the dual roles of parent and patient. Experiences of stigma, constrained autonomy and inconsistent support were common, yet parenthood also provided meaning, motivation and redefined wellness. The findings emphasise the need for psychologically informed, relationally responsive care.