An NHS trust is to use “gender inclusive language” for its maternity services, including terms such as “chestfeeding” and “birthing parent”.
Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals Trust is thought to be first in the UK to adopt the language in its internal communications and meetings.
The trust said it recognised “challenges” gender identity can have on pregnancy, birth and feeding.
But a campaigner said it was “trying to control the language of others”.
The language changes would not apply when caring for individuals in a one-on-one setting, the trust said.
“Language and documentation should reflect the gender identity of the individual” in these circumstances, it added.
The trust tweeted: “Our approach has been carefully considered to be inclusive of trans and non-binary birthing people without excluding the language of women or motherhood.”
A document on the trust’s website lists new terms such as “breast/chestfeeding”, “mothers and birthing parents” and “father or second biological parent”.
Shay Brown, director of campaign group TransActual, said: “It’s absolutely wonderful.
“Everyone is worthy of being treated with dignity when they access healthcare services no matter what they are,” he said.
Transgender advocate Debbie Hayton expressed concern over the plans.
“Trying to control the language of others does transgender people no favours at all,” said Dr Hayton, who describes herself as a transgender campaigner concerned about the “rights of other vulnerable groups”.
“We should be living in society, not imposing upon it.”
Article originally appeared on BBC News
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