The ITEMS study was commissioned to generate knowledge about the needs of trans and non-binary maternity service users. This article argues that the framing of the study is one sided and lacks conceptual clarity. The report fails to engage with relevant literature, particularly literature that takes a different perspective from that of the authors. The survey study is methodologically flawed, with clear issues in relation to sampling strategy and internal reliability. The claimed findings in the report are not always consistent with the data, and recommendations are made that are not supported by the study’s own findings. Despite these issues, the report was used as the basis for a planned intervention in the NHS, at significant cost. This was only stopped as a result of concerns raised by clinicians. This highlights why carefully considered, evidence-based policy planning is important.
Source: British Journal Of Midwifery – Trans and non-binary experiences of maternity services: cautioning against acting without evidence
