IERH acknowledges the importance of inclusive language as a component of patient-centered care and we are continually working to improve and create content that is reflective of the diverse experiences of people seeking sexual and reproductive healthcare. While some of our content may refer to “women”, we understand that not everyone with internal reproductive organs/a uterus identifies as a woman or female. We recognize that people who identify as men, non-binary, gender non-conforming, genderqueer, and many other gender identities can become pregnant and seek abortions. We understand the fear of erasure associated with shifting away from the word “women”, but advancing equity in healthcare requires a more inclusive movement and vision. The same systems that threaten holistic care for pregnant and birthing folks also perpetuate violence against trans, queer, and gender non-conforming people, which makes challenging these systems incredibly important.

We strongly believe in the necessity of quality reproductive healthcare not only for cis women but for people of all genders. Content made prior to 2020 may include gendered language, but as we create and update content moving forward we are prioritizing the use of more inclusive language.

Our policy and language were informed by the work of GLAAD, The Midwives Alliance of North America (MANA), Abortion Access Front, NYAAF, and The EMA Fund.