Embracing Diversity: Exploring Parenthood Options for Transgender Individuals
Transgender Parenting: Breaking Misconceptions and Embracing Diversity
Dr. Shannon Whittington (she/her), DNP, MSN, CCM, LGBTQ+ Health Certified
One of the most common misconceptions about transgender people is that they cannot or do not want to have children. Contrary to this misleading belief, many transgender individuals desire parenthood, with rates comparable to the cisgender population (Auer et al., 2018). Transgender individuals have multiple options for parenthood, just like cisgender people. Despite misunderstandings, the aspiration of all parents is to have a healthy baby and be a loving parent, regardless of gender identity.
Types of Childbirth in Transgender Families
Transgender individuals have various pathways to parenthood:
Transgender Men Who Give Birth: Transgender men, assigned female at birth but identifying along the masculine spectrum, may choose to retain their reproductive organs to conceive. They can give birth naturally or via cesarean section, with or without fertility treatments.
Transgender Women Who Parent: Transgender women, assigned male at birth but identifying along the feminine spectrum, may preserve sperm before transitioning to conceive with a partner or surrogate. Adoption is also an option.
Non-Binary Individuals Who Give Birth or Parent: Non-binary people, who do not identify exclusively as male or female, may use their reproductive organs to conceive or explore other parenting options.
Additional Options: Adoption, co-parenting, fostering, IVF, gestational carriers, egg donors, sperm donors, or traditional conception methods.
Feelings of Transgender People During Childbirth
Transgender individuals may experience a range of emotions during pregnancy and childbirth:
Gender Affirmation: Pregnancy and childbirth can affirm gender identity, allowing transgender parents to nurture and care for their children.
Gender Dysphoria: Some may experience increased dysphoria, feeling disconnected from their bodies or societal roles as parents.
Gender Creativity: Pregnancy and childbirth can be a platform for expressing gender creativity, challenging traditional norms and creating new parenting roles.
Impact on Children
Questions often arise about the gender identity and sexual orientation of children born to transgender or gay parents. It's important to understand that having trans or gay parents does not determine a child's gender identity or sexual orientation. These aspects are influenced by a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors (Paterson, 1992).
Supporting Transgender Parenting
Healthcare providers may encounter diverse parenting structures. It's crucial to remain open-minded and supportive, as trans parents often face discrimination in healthcare (Kirubarajan et al., 2022). The ultimate goal is to support all parents in loving and caring for their children, regardless of gender identity. Trans parents, like cisgender parents, strive to raise incredible humans who fulfill their best potential.
References
Auer, M. K., et al. (2018). Desire to have children among transgender people in Germany: A cross-sectional multi-center study. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 15(5), 757-767.
Kirubarajan, A., et al. (2022). LGBTQ2S+ childbearing individuals and perinatal mental health: A systematic review. BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 129(10), 1630-1643.
Patterson, C. J. (1992). Children of lesbian and gay parents. Child Development, 63(5), 1025-1042.
About the Author
Dr. Shannon Whittington (she/her), DNP, MSN, CCM, LGBTQ+ Health Certified, is the author of the bestselling book: LGBTQ+: ABCs For Grownups. She is a certified speaker advocating for LGBTQ+ Patient-Centered Care and Workplace Inclusion. Her mission is to eliminate homophobia in the workplace and transform healthcare delivery for the rainbow community. For bookings, contact Dr. Whittington at hello@WhittingtonConsulting.com.