Conception, pregnancy, and childbirth from the perspective of transgender men: a meta-ethnography

Abstract

[Abstract]

Background: Transgender men who decide to gestate biologically often face a health system that is highly feminized and discriminatory. In addition, the lack of preparation and knowledge among healthcare professionals leads to the provision of care that fails to meet their specific needs.

Aim: To synthesise the experiences of transgender men with regard to conception, pregnancy, and childbirth.

Method: Ten studies were included in a synthesis of qualitative studies, following the interpretive meta-ethnography method developed by Noblit and Hare and summarized in accordance with the eMERGe meta-ethnography reporting guidelines.

Results: The metaphor of a divergent matryoshka dealing with a constricted reality helps us to understand the experiences of conception, pregnancy, and childbirth of transgender men, who often face stigma, discrimination, and marginalization in society and healthcare. The metaphor also highlights the gender dysphoria that arises from the physical changes associated with these processes. Four key themes emerge from this metaphor: (1) The decision to conceive being a trans man; (2) The challenge of adjusting to a new body reality; (3) The significance of navigating in an environment of non-representation; and (4) The marked absence of transsexuality in mainstream healthcare.

Conclusions: Actions should prioritize strengthening ethical sensitivities and improve the training of health professionals to address issues such as gender perspectives, equality, and communication skills. Additionally, social visibility policies need to be implemented.