The medical community has seen a shift in language as some NHS trusts, private hospitals, and charities strive for inclusivity. Terms such as “woman,” “breastfeeding,” and “vagina” have been replaced by new phrases. For instance, the term “chestfeeding” is now used instead of “breastfeeding,” and “milk from the chest” has become the replacement for “breast milk.” The use of this language aims to cater to trans and non-binary individuals within the healthcare system, but it has sparked controversy. Critics argue that it is ideological and may normalize potentially dangerous practices such as chest-binding.
In February 2021, Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust introduced the term “human milk” in place of “breastmilk” to avoid offending transgender individuals. This change was praised by inclusivity campaigners. However, the guidance on gender inclusive language in perinatal services has since been taken down.
Another contentious change occurred when NHS East of England referred to expectant mothers as “pregnant people.” This sparked a debate, with some arguing for the use of the term “pregnant women” instead.
Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals Trust also called for the replacement of the term “father” with “parent,” “co-parent,” or “second biological parent” depending on the situation. However, the document noted that individual one-on-one interactions should reflect the gender identity of the person involved.
The trust further implemented a “gender inclusive” shift by renaming its maternity services department as “perinatal services.” Perinatal care encompasses treatment received during pregnancy and the 12 months following childbirth.
NHS Norfolk and Suffolk Foundation Trust chose to use the term “birthing people” instead of “mothers” in its communications. This decision received backlash for not including biological females in the conversation and was criticized as dehumanizing.
Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust suggested the use of the term “bonus hole” instead of “vagina” to be more inclusive towards non-binary and trans men. However, this alternative glossary received backlash from feminist activists who deemed it misogynistic and dehumanizing.
The term “vaginal birth” was labeled as gender-loaded by the LGBT Foundation, which recommended using “frontal birth” or “lower birth” instead. The charity also highlighted the importance of providing private spaces in hospitals for trans and non-binary individuals during childbirth.
In an effort for inclusive language, NHS advice pages about women’s health have removed the word “women” in recent years. However, there has been some backlash and subsequent revisions to reinstate the term in certain contexts.
Cromwell Hospital, a private hospital in London, faced criticism for using the term “patients of childbearing potential” instead of “women” when asking about pregnancy status. The hospital defended its use of language, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and patient safety.
In conclusion, the healthcare industry has witnessed a shift towards more inclusive language. While these changes aim to cater to the needs of trans and non-binary individuals, they have sparked debates and backlash from critics. The use of language that respects gender identity while still maintaining clarity and accuracy is a complex issue that requires careful consideration.
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