Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in December 2021.

Non-Binary Parent Speaks Out About Misgendering During Childbirth

Bennett Kaspar-Williams, who identifies as non-binary and uses he/they pronouns, gave birth to his son Hudson in October 2020 via C-section. Despite identifying as male at the time, hospital staff repeatedly misgendered him, calling him “mom” and ignoring his gender identity marked on medical forms.

Kaspar-Williams began his transition in 2014 and had top surgery but chose not to undergo other procedures. He described the experience of childbirth as rewarding but emotionally challenging due to the constant misgendering.

He emphasized the need to separate gender identity from parenthood, noting that having a uterus doesn’t define womanhood or guarantee motherhood. His story highlights the importance of respecting pronouns and identities, especially in healthcare, to create a more inclusive and understanding society.