Pregnancy and childbirth are often viewed through a narrow lens, predominantly associating these experiences with women. However, it’s essential to recognize that individuals who do not identify as women, including nonbinary, gender fluid, genderqueer, Two-Spirit, and transgender people, can also become pregnant and require comprehensive prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal care.
Recently, a hospital in the U.K. gained attention for adopting gender-inclusive terminology in its maternity ward to combat prevalent transphobia and homophobia. They introduced new language guidelines to assist staff in embracing this updated terminology, although some members of the public reacted negatively.
Examples of Language Changes
The hospital’s revised guidelines include:
- Replacing “maternity” with “perinatal” services and wards.
- Using “woman or person” rather than just “woman.”
- Substituting “father” with “parent,” “co-parent,” or “second biological parent.”
- Referring to “chest milk,” “human milk,” or “milk from the feeding parent” instead of “breastmilk.”
The guidelines emphasize that gender identity can contribute to oppression and disparities in healthcare, advocating for the needs of women, trans individuals, and non-binary people. The intention is not to eliminate gendered terms but to incorporate language that includes those who do not identify as women or are in non-heterosexual relationships, thus fostering an environment where all individuals seeking perinatal care feel recognized and safe.
Importance of Gender-Inclusive Terms in Healthcare
Trans and non-binary people deserve to be treated with dignity and respect in healthcare settings. While they may not represent the majority of individuals who give birth, their specific needs must be acknowledged and met. Unfortunately, many face negative experiences during healthcare interactions. A 2019 study by Rutgers revealed that nearly 25% of transgender individuals encountered adverse experiences in healthcare within the previous year, influencing their decisions regarding prenatal care.
The 2015 U.S. Transgender Survey indicated alarming statistics: about 40% of respondents had considered suicide, and many reported negative encounters with healthcare providers that dissuaded them from seeking necessary care. These experiences can lead to significant health disparities.
A Call for Compassionate Language
Changing terminology is not a cure-all for the systemic issues faced by transgender and gender non-conforming individuals. However, embracing inclusive language can be a step toward kindness and understanding. It’s crucial to remember that while the term “breastfeeding” may remain in common use, it’s important to recognize that not all individuals who breastfeed identify as women. Terms like “chestfeeding” are more appropriate for some parents, and using inclusive language can alleviate the distress that many transgender individuals experience during pregnancy.
Embracing Evolving Language
Language is dynamic and continually evolving. We must adapt to create a welcoming atmosphere for everyone. Using terms like “chestfeeding,” “pregnant people,” or “human milk” in our conversations helps normalize inclusivity. As we search for and utilize these terms more often, we contribute to a broader acceptance and understanding in society.
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In summary, the shift toward inclusive language in healthcare is a necessary evolution that acknowledges the diversity of experiences among those who become pregnant. By using more inclusive terms, we can create a more supportive environment for everyone involved in the birthing process.