queer community
My fundamental approach in my work is to recognize and support the individuality and self-determination of all the families and individuals I accompany. I continuously educate myself on topics related to queer-sensitive midwifery, diversity, and discrimination, and I speak as a speaker in these areas. It is important to me to create a safe(r) space for people from marginalized groups in all my work areas and to adopt an actively anti-discriminatory stance.
In workshops for healthcare institutions, universities, and through associations and non-profit organizations, I engage in queer political and activist anti-discrimination work.
Childbirth preparation for queers*
Together with midwife Sarah Wittmann (she/her) and in collaboration with queerKAstle, I offer childbirth preparation courses for queers*.
Our goal is to create a safe(r) space for queer expectant parents, where we can focus on childbirth preparation outside of binary and cis-endo-heteronormative structures and concepts of bodies, family, and parenthood.
All the content of a traditional childbirth preparation course is included— we discuss the various stages of labor and inform you about possible interventions. We cover breathing and relaxation techniques to help you prepare well for labor. Preparation for the postpartum period and the start of parenthood will also be addressed, along with topics such as your child’s nutrition and, if you choose to breastfeed, everything you need for a successful start to breastfeeding. We are in contact with the Youth Welfare Office in Karlsruhe to provide input on stepchild adoption and legal questions as well.
Additionally, the course provides an opportunity for networking and exchange with other queer families in the region. Our goal is to empower you for a self-determined birth and to equip you with knowledge and confidence for your exciting journey into parenthood.
This course is specifically aimed at expectant parents, pregnant individuals, and their support persons who identify as queer* or as part of the LGBTIQ/LSBTTIQ community.
More information
The courses are held three times a year as weekend workshops at the queerKAstle premises. Both days include long lunch breaks with shared meals and opportunities for networking.
You can participate as a pregnant individual, or with partners or support persons. The costs for the pregnant individual are covered by health insurance, while the cost for each additional person is €120, some of which may be reimbursed by certain health insurers. If the fee for additional participants presents a financial challenge, please contact us, and we will find a supportive solution!
The course is conducted in spoken German and supplemented with various media. Seating will be provided using gym mats on the floor—if you have mobility restrictions, alternative seating options are available. The course includes various body and breathing exercises. All physical exercises are performed by the pregnant individual only with their own support person(s).
Do you have any questions or would you like to register for the course directly?
Desire for Children Group
In collaboration with ILSE Karlsruhe, I regularly offer an open group for queer individuals with a desire for children. The group provides ample space for discussion and networking, where we share experiences, tips, and tricks, support each other’s journey, and offer emotional support.
You can participate by registering through ILSE here.
Consultation
on queer health topics / Individual consultation / One-on-one consultation
I am aware that pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and the postpartum period are still heavily influenced by binary, cis-endo-heteronormative concepts. Unfortunately, medical personnel are often not sufficiently trained when it comes to queer health care issues. I am part of the network for queer-sensitive midwifery and have received relevant training.
I am happy to offer individual consultations on topics such as desire for children and various reproductive options, or pregnancy during or after transition. If a parent who did not carry the child wishes to breastfeed, this is also possible, regardless of the sex assigned at birth. I am here to support you on your journey to induced lactation or co-breastfeeding.
A consultation with me can also be an additional support alongside the care provided by your midwife, if you already have one.