The views and experiences of midwifery academics regarding LGBTQ+ health education in pre-registration programmes in the United Kingdom and Ireland: Qualitative findings from a mixed-methods study

Aim: The purpose of this study was to identify the current LGBTQ+ health content within midwifery pre-registration programmes and identity education best practice and innovation. Background: There have been significant developments in some countries in protecting the rights of LGBTQ+ people. LGBTQ+ people are and do become parents and require access to maternity services. Yet some report heteronormative assumptions, negative and discriminatory attitudes from midwives that results in barriers to service access and feelings of exclusion. Design: This mixed-methods study involved a quantitative and qualitative design. The qualitative findings are reported here. Methods: All 135 Schools of Nursing and Midwifery across the United Kingdom and Ireland were invited to participate in an online survey and qualitative interview. Thematic analysis of the qualitative data from 29 survey responses and seven midwifery follow-up interviews were conducted. Results: Three themes identified following data analysis: (i) preparing midwifery students for practice; (ii) the diverse family unit; and (iii) safety, privacy and respect. Conclusions: The findings provide insights into the challenges of meeting the education needs of midwifery students, with an opportunity to develop and implement a curriculum that is reflective of the needs and concerns of LGBTQ+ people within pre-registration midwifery programmes.