Non-binary reproduction: Stories of conception, pregnancy, and birth

Many non-binary individuals AFAB (assigned female at birth) seek gestational parenthood. However, the limited available literature is often focused on trans men and overlooks the conception, pregnancy, and birth experiences of non-binary parents. The study aimed to capture the unique reproduction narratives of non-binary people AFAB. Five non-binary individuals volunteered to participate in this study. Data were collected using largely unstructured, in-depth, tape-recorded interviews. Thematic analysis of the verbatim transcripts and tape recordings yielded a chronological, cohesive narrative for each participant. Four participants reviewed their narrative and confirmed that their story was accurately represented. The individual narratives were then woven into one collective narrative, and common themes across the participants' stories were identified. Before conception, most participants considered how to balance their medical and social transitions with their reproductive goals. Conception was relatively easy and straightforward for the four participants who used their partner's sperm. The gendered nature of, and language surrounding, pregnancy greatly impacted participant's reproductive experiences, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness, difficulties finding maternity clothes and gender dysphoria. Participants desired gender-affirming care and reported mostly positive experiences with their healthcare providers. Their gender identity influenced their experiences of parenthood, as well as the decisions they made regarding the disclosure of their gender identity to others, their gender presentation, chestfeeding, and parental designations. The cisnormative and heteronormative scripts that surround pregnancy shaped the reproductive narratives of those who participated in this research. The findings reinforce the importance of inclusive, gender-affirming healthcare and social support services.