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Trans*, Intersex, and the Question of Pregnancy: Beyond Repronormative Reproduction

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Transgender and Intersex: Theoretical, Practical, and Artistic Perspectives

Abstract

Based on the assumption that reproduction in Western societies remains a cultural realm which is distinctively governed by characteristically heteronormative discursive conditions, this article aims to critically examine the interrelatedness between repronormativity and trans* and intersex lived bodies. Western cultures are moving towards paradigmatic changes of legalizing, treating, and embodying sex/gender identities that will substantially alter socio-cultural discourses on, and practices of, reproduction. Within this period of upheaval, the question of trans* and intersex pregnancies challenges norms of reproduction. Both trans* as well as intersex pregnancies are constructed deviations from a hegemonic binary norm. As such, their corresponding constructedness needs to be considered with respect to their divergence from a dualistic order. A co-consideration not only opens up significant new perspectives on how repronormatively organized discourses form the basis of our cultures’ understanding of trans* and intersex pregnancies, but also puts an emphasis on their shared characteristics in order to develop mutual political strategies.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Gießen, Germany

    Nadyne Stritzke

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  1. Nadyne Stritzke
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  2. Elisa Scaramuzza
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  1. Dresden University of Technology, Dresden, Germany

    Stefan Horlacher

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Stritzke, N., Scaramuzza, E. (2016). Trans*, Intersex, and the Question of Pregnancy: Beyond Repronormative Reproduction. In: Horlacher, S. (eds) Transgender and Intersex: Theoretical, Practical, and Artistic Perspectives. Palgrave Macmillan, New York. https://doi.org/10.1057/978-1-349-71325-7_6

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