Queer Digital Stories

What’s this study about?

The goal of the study is to better understand the experiences of trans and nonbinary (TNB) people who use midwifery services in Ontario. Specifically, the study explores the importance of gender-affirming language in midwifery care, and how it helps TNB individuals feel seen, affirmed and respected. 

During a three-day in-person digital storytelling workshop, participants will create short videos about what gender-affirming language means to them and how it impacts their care experiences. The videos will be shared with midwives and other healthcare providers to help them answer the question: why does gender-affirming language matter?

Why is this research being done?

Gendered language in healthcare settings often excludes TNB individuals, leading to harmful consequences such as misgendering and trauma during pregnancy and birth. As societal debates over trans identities and lives intensify, it’s critical to establish gender-affirming language as standard practice in healthcare, including midwifery care. Through digital storytelling, we can explore how gender-affirming language can improve care for TNB people and resist harmful exclusionary practices. 

What is the purpose of this study?

The purpose of this study is to better understand what gender-affirming language means to TNB midwifery service-users, and how it can be used to make them feel seen and respected in perinatal care. The digital stories will provide insights into the realities of TNB people in midwifery settings. These stories will be shared with healthcare providers to encourage the adoption of gender-affirming language, ultimately improving care and promoting inclusion in perinatal healthcare.