LBTQ parents' needs for support postpartum following a complicated birth: A matter of reproductive justice

• Published in: Journal of lesbian studies 2024, Vol.28 (4), p.701-718
• Main Authors: Klittmark, Sofia, Niit, Jaqueline K. P., Nerström, Emilia, Grundström, Hanna, Nieminen, Katri, Wells, Michael B., Malmquist, Anna
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adult; birth complications; Childbirth & labor; Female; Gender identity; Humans; LGBTQ; Mental disorders; Parents & parenting; Parents - psychology; Parturition - psychology; Postnatal Care; Postpartum Period; Pregnancy; reproductive health; reproductive justice; Reproductive rights; Sexual and Gender Minorities - psychology; Sexual and gender minority; Sexuality; Social Support
• ISSN: 1089-4160; 1540-3548; 1540-3548
• DOI: 10.1080/10894160.2024.2367869

LBTQ people have increased risks of complications during birth, risks potentially driven by minority stress and increased levels of mental illness and fear of childbirth. With the aim of exploring reproductive injustices in postpartum care for LBTQ people, we analyzed qualitative interviews where 22 LBTQ birth and non-birth parents shared their experiences of support needs during the postpartum period after births where complications had arisen. Results point to the importance of providing an LBTQ safe space, which includes the need to feel safe regarding one's gender or sexual identity, by avoiding cisheteronormative assumptions and using inclusive language. In the context of recently experiencing birth complications, parents needed a space where they were able to focus on physical and mental healing. The results further show the need for validation of the non-birth parent and inclusive breast/chest-feeding support. Results emphasize the need for more psychosocial support around the birth experience, including better medical support and information during the whole process of childbirth.