The Safe Womb Spaces Project

Creating reproductive healthcare accessible for all.

What is The Safe Womb Spaces Project

The Safe Womb Spaces Project aims to create a safe and inclusive space where everyone feels empowered to access the healthcare they need and deserve. This includes individuals who may identify as transgender men, non-binary, genderqueer, or any other gender identity, as well as those who have experienced trauma in their lives.

By promoting inclusive practices, The Safe Womb Spaces Project seeks to dismantle the barriers that prevent individuals from receiving appropriate care and support. The movement acknowledges that the relationship with the womb is complex and unique for each person, and it strives to provide care that is respectful, gender affirming and trauma-conscious.

The aims of The Safe Womb Spaces Project are therefore twofold: Accessibility for Trans Men & Non-Binary Individuals & Accessibility for those with Trauma History

The Safe Womb Spaces Project

Accessibility for Trans Men & Non-Binary Individuals

Traditionally, discussions around reproductive health and womb care have often been centred on cisgender women, excluding and marginalising transgender and non-binary individuals. Overlooking the diverse needs and identities of those who don't fit into that binary framework. This lack of inclusivity can result in discomfort, misgendering, or a sense of not belonging when seeking reproductive care.

One of the primary challenges faced by non-binary individuals and trans men is the misalignment between their gender identity and the reproductive healthcare services available. Moreover, societal attitudes and biases can further exacerbate the difficulties encountered by non-binary individuals and trans men. Stereotypes and misconceptions may lead to healthcare providers being uninformed or unprepared to address the specific reproductive health concerns of this community. This can result in inadequate or inappropriate care, creating barriers to accessing essential services.

The Safe Womb Spaces Project seeks to challenge this narrative and expand the understanding of reproductive health to encompass the experiences of all individuals who have a womb or who have undergone womb-related experiences.

“The Safe Womb Spaces Project recognises that accessing reproductive healthcare should not be limited by societal norms, gender expectations, sexuality or traumatic experiences.”

The Safe Womb Spaces Project

Accessibility for those with Trauma Histories

At the Safe Womb Spaces Project, we advocate for reproductive healthcare accessibility that acknowledges the experiences of trauma survivors. For individuals who have experienced trauma, the journey towards accessing reproductive healthcare can be filled with unique challenges and barriers.Trauma, whether physical, emotional, or both, can profoundly impact one's perception of healthcare, trust in providers, and overall well-being. The wounds inflicted by trauma often extend beyond the immediate event, shaping an individual's experiences and interactions with the healthcare system.

One significant challenge that arises for those with trauma is the vulnerability and anxiety associated with medical settings. The physical environment, medical procedures, and even routine examinations can trigger distressing memories or evoke a sense of helplessness. This can make it incredibly challenging for individuals to seek and receive the necessary reproductive healthcare services they require.

At The Safe Womb Spaces Project, we understand the complexities involved and aim to shed light on the importance of addressing these difficulties with compassion, empathy, and tailored support. We aim to address the lack of trauma-conscious care within the reproductive healthcare system and aim to inform providers who to recognise and respond to the unique needs of survivors.

How we plan to initiate change

Specialised Training for Healthcare Providers

The Safe Womb Spaces Project calls for healthcare providers and holistic practitioners to undergo specialised training to ensure they are equipped to provide compassionate and affirming care to individuals with different gender identities and those who have experienced trauma. This training encourages providers to create a nurturing and empathetic environment where patients can feel seen, heard, and respected throughout their healthcare journey.

We work towards cultivating a network of trauma, gender and sexuality conscious care providers who are trained to provide compassionate support and address the unique needs of individuals with trauma histories.

Training for Education Providers

The movement also advocates for comprehensive training and awareness surrounding reproductive health within the education system. This includes promoting accurate and inclusive information about reproductive anatomy, menstruation, fertility, pregnancy, and other womb-related experiences. By increasing knowledge and understanding, The Safe Womb Spaces Project aims to foster a culture of empathy, support, and acceptance for individuals with diverse reproductive journeys.