New Irish Midwifery Registration Standards and the Missed Opportunity for Gender-Inclusive Curricula and Reproductive Justice.

Abstract

The 2025 revision of Ireland's midwifery education standards marks the first comprehensive update since 2012 and includes an important step forward in acknowledging trans and gender diverse (TGD) people as recipients of midwifery care. However, despite this progress, the standards remain constrained by gender-exclusive language and a lack of substantive integration of TGD perspectives across curricula. Drawing on international literature and recent evidence on TGD pregnancy experiences, this commentary argues that recognition without structural embedding risks tokenism and perpetuates inequity. Situating the discussion within a human rights framework, it highlights the relevance of the International Confederation of Midwives' Philosophy and Bill of Rights, which centers on self-determination, bodily autonomy, justice and equity, principles that align directly with trans inclusion. The commentary calls for consistent inclusive terminology, explicit competencies in TGD health, and leadership education that equips midwives to advocate for equity and human rights. It also underscores the need to foster safe, affirming environments for trans and non-binary midwives, ensuring that the profession itself embodies the inclusivity it promotes in care.