Transplant and fetus: How do they coexist in the maternal mind?

FOLLOWING renal transplantation, most patients have a feeling of “renewal.” This feeling is even anticipated during the pretransplant period. In many women, renewal and increased vitality are associated, in their mind, with the possibility to “give birth,” very early, before a transplant success. Transplantation is one experience, pregnancy is another one. We analyze here the psychological aspects of this dual experience.