gms | German Medical Science

Background: Although LGBTIQ people in Germany are increasingly gaining legal and medical recognition and equal access to quality healthcare for all is enshrined in the European Charter of Fundamental Rights, there are still specific barriers, stigma and discrimination in healthcare for LGBTIQ people. Midwives and obstetricians often assume a cis-heterosexual lifestyle, which can make rainbow families feel that they are not adequately considered in obstetric care. Rainbow families have a particular additional need for information during the family-building phase, which is not adequately met by obstetric care providers, who often lack specific knowledge.

Aim/research question: The aim of this research project is to explore the experiences of (expectant) rainbow family parents in midwifery care and to identify their specific needs and requirements in this context. The following research questions are derived from this:

• How do LGBTIQ people experience midwifery care in Germany and what are their experiences in this context?
• What are the needs and requirements of LGBTIQ people in relation to midwifery care?
• From the perspective of LGBTIQ people, what does successful midwifery care look like?

Methods: Using a qualitative research design, 10–15 narrative interviews with rainbow families and approximately five expert interviews with midwives and counsellors experienced in working with rainbow families will be conducted. The empirical data will be analysed using content structuring qualitative content analysis.

Expected results: This research project will provide initial insights into the experiences of LGBTIQ people in the context of midwifery care. In addition, specific needs and requirements will be identified in order to understand what constitutes to successful midwifery care from the perspective of rainbow families. Among other things, those findings could lead to the development of a language guide with practical recommendations on appropriate behaviour for midwives and obstetric staff.

Relevancy: These findings are particularly relevant to midwifery care and the health promotion of rainbow families in the context of the tension between increasing family diversity and the predominantly heteronormative orientation of health care in Germany.

Recommendations/conclusion: The needs and requirements of all people who use midwifery care are important and should be taken into account. It is therefore relevant to explore the perspective of rainbow families on midwifery care, their experiences and their needs and requirements in this context. Successful midwifery care that meets the specific needs of rainbow families promotes their health. Themes of queer family formation should be included in the training of midwives and obstetricians.

Ethics and conflicts of interest: An ethics committee vote will be requested in advance. The research was financed by third-party funds. There are no conflicts of interest.

The PDF file of the poster submitted for the meeting is available in German as Attachment 1 [Attach. 1].