Building Our Families: Navigating Barriers in 2SLGBTQ+ Family Building Through Doula Supports
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Queer and transgender individuals often encounter barriers when attempting to build their families, Beginning by identifying barriers that 2SLGBTQ+ people face in their fertility and reproductive journeys -- including limited access to information, inadequate diversity in donor gametes, and minority stress -- this article looks to the role of doulas in mitigating challenges by providing critical and tailored support, educational resources, and support and advocacy in navigating medical systems. Using a reproductive justice and intersectional framework, the article highlights the need for inclusive care practices that address the historical and ongoing exclusion of marginalized 2SLGBTQ+ communities. It underscores the importance of improved training for healthcare providers and systemic changes to ensure equitable family-building experiences for 2SLGBTQ+ individuals. By integrating community supports and peer advocacy, the article proposes strategies to enhance both the physical and mental health outcomes of 2SLGBTQ+ intended parents and their families. It calls for a comprehensive approach that combines professional training, systemic reform, and community-based initiatives to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for family-building among 2SLGBTQ+ individuals.
Source: New Area Studies
DOI: 10.37975/nas.67
Author: Laine Halpern Zisman
Language: English
Subfield: Social Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4402987678