Creating a More Inclusive Birth Space: Why Language Matters
As a birth worker, I've come to appreciate the power of inclusive language in creating a safe and welcoming environment for all birthing individuals. It's essential to honour each person's unique experience and use language that empowers and celebrates their strength and resilience.
Today we’re talking about just that. The importance of inclusive language.
Images below are of Mal and Charlie’s Birth story. They both use he/him pronouns.
By using gender-neutral language, such as "birthing person" or "partner", we can make the birth space more inclusive and respectful of all identities. It's important to remember that not all birthing individuals identify as women, and using gender-neutral language shows that we value and respect all birthing experiences. We must also listen to and honour individuals' preferences in language to create a positive and empowering experience. Advocating for these preferences is the least we can do as birth workers.
This isn’t to say that we should never use ‘woman’ or ‘women’ when referring to people giving birth. The majority of people who do go through childbirth are and identify as women and they deserve to be celebrated. What we don’t want to happen is for anyone, including women, to feel excluded when topics of childbirth arise. The way I see it, is everyone deserves respect, without question, however they identify.
Having worked with a huge variety of people, I tend to use both identifiers when talking about my work and who my clients are (you’ll see I mostly write, “women and birthing people”). Some may argue that using the term ‘birthing people/person’ diminishes the achievements, resilience and empowerment of women; if it were to be used exclusively, maybe, so I choose to include everybody.
Sharing diverse stories and experiences is powerful way to create inclusivity in the birth space. We can help individuals feel seen and heard, and provide a sense of community and connection by sharing stories from a variety of perspectives, including those of marginalised communities.
Language is a powerful tool in creating an inclusive birth space. Through gender-neutral language, advocacy, and storytelling, we can create a safe and welcoming environment for all birthing individuals. Together, let's celebrate the strength and resilience of all birthing experiences.
I pride myself on being a safe, inclusive space for all stories. You are welcome here.
If you’d like to learn more about birth photography, doula support or anything else, please do get in touch by clicking HERE. I would love to hear from you.
Before I go, I have the privilege of interviewing Mal about his birth experience, so be sure to sign up to the mailing list to get first look at his story.
Big love and bigger hugs,
