Did you know, there are 122 ways to become a parent*? The midwifery model of practice in British Columbia supports the needs of all expectant families, no matter which route to parenthood they take.
Midwives care for all families during the childbearing year, supporting them through pregnancy, birth and the first 6 to 8 weeks postpartum. This includes families created through pregnancy and birth, adoption, surrogacy, multi-partner relationships, choice, blending and circumstance. Midwives provide primary care while honouring the diversity of their clients and communities and providing respectful and affirming care.
Midwifery is founded on the principles of informed choice decision making, trust building through continuity of care, and choice of birth place. In practice, BC midwives are well suited to care for queer, transgender, and gender diverse clients, taking the time needed to get to know each family and their individual needs throughout their pregnancy and birth care.
The midwifery model of practice in British Columbia supports the needs of expectant families in all contexts. With their extensive training, midwives provide a level of care that is safe, individualized and accessible.
Midwives share a common philosophy that all people have a right to accessible, comprehensive midwifery services. They provide care without discriminating on the basis of race, ethnicity, political or religious beliefs, marital status, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, physical or mental ability. Whether same-sex, straight, single or multi-partner families, midwives will provide a level of care that is safe, individualized, and accessible.
“...We can honor the power of all women while at the same time extending this reverence to all people who are pregnant and giving birth, and that to do so is in full alignment with the heart of midwifery.”
— Birth for Every Body Project
Midwives across Canada have made a strong commitment to inclusive care, adopting practices that are respectful and supportive of the sexual and gender identities of all people in their client’s family network. Every person entering a midwifery clinic can expect to be respected and cared for, regardless of their sexuality or gender identity.
This commitment to inclusivity also extends to acknowledging the diverse identities of the midwives practicing in the community. BC midwives are striving to educate themselves in order to better serve and advocate for the transgender, gender queer, non-binary and intersex clients and families in their care.
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