The path to parenthood is meant to be a time of celebration. Yet, for many 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, perinatal care can feel alienating. The reality is that our healthcare systems often aren’t designed with them in mind.  

Compared to their heterosexual and cisgender peers, 2SLGBTQ+ parents-to-be face higher risks. These include: 

  • Elevated rates of perinatal depression and anxiety 
  • Increased stress during pregnancy 
  • A greater likelihood of avoiding or delaying care due to past negative experiences 

These disparities stem from factors like social stigma, isolation, and negative medical experiences. 

The good news? As a healthcare provider, you can directly impact health outcomes and create a positive, affirming experience for every patient. 

Here are five grounding principles to guide your 2SLGBTQ+ perinatal care practice. 

1. Affirming Care is a Right 

Everyone, regardless of their gender, sexual orientation or other social location, deserves accurate, affirming reproductive healthcare. This means consciously moving away from assumptions and committing to creating a space where every patient feels seen and validated. 

2. Focus on Anatomy and Goals 

Effective care focuses on the patient in front of you. Consider their anatomy, physiology and gametes, fertility and family-building objectives. By centring the patient’s anatomy and goals, you provide personalized care. 

3. Identity is Not Always Fixed or Linear

People’s understanding of their own gender and sexual orientation can evolve. A patient’s identity or pronouns may shift during their perinatal journey. Creating a non-judgmental environment where patients feel safe to express themselves is crucial for building trust. 

4. Take a Trauma-Informed and Intersectional Approach 

2SLGBTQ+ care involves an understanding of trauma and systemic oppression. Consider how identities like race, disability, or immigration status overlap and shape a person’s experience. An intersectional, trauma-informed approach means you’re caring for a whole person. 

5. Understand Your Power 

This is perhaps the most critical principle for healthcare providers. You have the power to worsen systemic barriers or be the reason a patient feels safe. Something as simple as an incorrect assumption can cause harm. Conversely, using affirming language and inclusive EHRs are powerful protective factors that can significantly improve mental health outcomes. 

Ready to Deepen Your Practice? 

Understanding these principles is the first step. Integrating them is the next.  

We’re excited to offer our Gender-Affirming Perinatal Care course. This course is for physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, midwives, and all healthcare professionals committed to providing exceptional, affirming perinatal care. Prerequisite: 2SLGBTQ+ Foundations.

Equip yourself to make a tangible difference in the lives of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals and families. 

Additional Resources

2SLGBTQ+ Foundations 
Removing the Barriers: Making Your Organization 2SLGBTQ+ Friendly 
Practical Strategies for More 2SLGBTQ+ Inclusive Electronic Health Records 
2SLGBTQ+ Family Resources – Sherbourne Health 
Evidence-Informed Guidance for Providers of Perinatal Care for 2SLGBTQIA+ Individuals (Re:searching for 2SLGBTQA+ Health, University of Toronto) 
Affirming Perinatal Care for 2SLGBTQIA+ Individuals (Public Health)