"They Didn't Know How to Support Me": The Experiences of Transgender Men and Non-Binary People With Chestfeeding

Research and education on lactation often overlooks the needs and experiences of transgender men and non-binary individuals who are chestfeeding. Support from partners and compassionate, informed healthcare practitioners can significantly enhance their chestfeeding experience.

Guided by queer phenomenology, the purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of chestfeeding from the perspectives of transgender men and non-binary people.

This qualitative study followed the tenets of interpretive description. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with transgender men and non-binary people in Ontario, Canada, who had recent chestfeeding experiences.

Transgender men and non-binary people (N = 8) identified a variety of facilitators and barriers to chestfeeding. Having access to support systems, knowledgeable practitioners who provide gender-affirming care, and bodily autonomy were protective factors through the chestfeeding experience. In addition, planning and preparing for chestfeeding experiences added to positive experiences with chestfeeding. Gender dysphoria and transphobic societal norms were barriers to chestfeeding.

The chestfeeding experiences of transgender men and non-binary parents are shaped by the presence or absence of gender-affirming and knowledgeable care. Disorienting experiences, including misgendering and inadequate support, can disrupt lactation and harm well-being, while affirming interactions enhance embodiment and self-advocacy. This study suggests there is a need for inclusive policies, comprehensive provider education, and practices that affirm diverse gender identities across the perinatal period.