Transgender men and pregnancy

Abstract

Transgender (trans) men are commonly born with the reproductive anatomy that allows them to become pregnant and give birth and many wish to do so. However, little is known about trans men’s experiences of desiring parenthood and gestational pregnancy. This chapter examined how Australian trans men construct and experience their desire for parenthood and gestational pregnancy, through on-line survey data and one-on-one interviews, with 25 trans men, aged 25 to 46 years old, who had experienced a gestational pregnancy. Data was analysed using thematic analysis. For our participants, parenthood was initially described as ‘triggering’ and complex; however, transitioning enabled participants to negotiate and construct their own parenting identity. Pregnancy was positioned as a problematic but ‘functional sacrifice’; however, formal assisted fertility experiences were rife with exclusion. At the same time dysphoria associated with withdrawing from testosterone and the growing fecund body were significantly troubling. Changes to the chest were of particular concern for participants. Exclusion, isolation, and loneliness were the predominant features of trans men’s experiences of gestational pregnancies. Healthcare systems are not generally supportive of trans bodies and identities and trans men encounter significant issues when interacting with healthcare providers. As such, the results reinforce the importance of inclusive and specialized health services to support trans men through pregnancy.