Reprofutures – new resources available!
Reprofutures is a co-created research project which took place from 2019-2022. the objective was to understand what kinds of support that adults with variations in sex characteristics (VSCs) would like to receive with issues relating to reproduction, fertility, relationships, intimacy, and parenting (biological and non-biological). In particular, we aimed to consider how to improve the support provided in healthcare settings and social circles – from families, friends, partners – and to develop guidance to assist with these improvements.
The understanding of reproductive support was broad and included the freedom not to become a parent, as well as the potential to become a parent, and in either case for the environment to be safe, healthy, approving, non-judgemental and non-intrusive. Together we developed a series of qualitative workshops, written activities, and consultation sessions with 28 people with VSCs across the UK, including interconnected UK community members.
The conclusions from this work have been developed into a support guide, research report, and healthcare policy and practice recommendations with illustrations by Elly Jahnz (www.ellyjahnz.co.uk)
The project was funded by the Exeter Engaged Research Exploratory Awards and the Wellcome Centre for Cultures and Environments of Health, University of Exeter.
