When I enlisted in the Army in 2001, I recall the part of in-processing that had me lying naked on an exam table with only a big, white sheet covering my body, tented by my knees. I was told that the physician was going to walk in, lift the sheet to observe my genitalia, and walk out. That’s exactly what he did. The U.S. Army found that my anatomy was commensurate with what is defined as “female.” In other words, sex was defined by anatomy.
Fast forward about 20 years, and I attended the September 2022 Contraceptive Technology Virtual Conference in an attempt to stay informed in my role as the clinical consultant for the Title X Family Planning Program in Kansas.
As an experienced registered nurse and public health professional trained in the fundamental truths of anatomy and biology, I was surprised when conference speakers gave preemptive apologies for using the word “woman.” When they used the word “woman,” they explained it was only to mirror the older, less politically correct research they referenced. They even made it a point to say they were aware of the offense it may cause because it did not include members of the “trans” community.
Each time I heard this, I wondered: Why are medical professionals apologizing for using the lexicon firmly established in every sphere of life—social, cultural, academic, philosophical, scientific? I realized there was a social construct to “woman,” but that didn’t contradict basic anatomy and genetics, which are visually observable.
One presenter suggested we stop using the term “women’s clinic” and begin asking patients if they are comfortable with using anatomical terms like “vagina” or if they prefer made-up terms like “front-hole.”
This is the salient point of gender ideology — the truth is irrelevant. I would go one step further and say the truth is being undermined at the behest of proclaimed authorities of inclusion and diversity.
I know I am not alone, professionally. Where are all my fellow nurses, providers, and researchers who stand on eternal truth?
More recently, I have seen guides put forth by local breastfeeding coalitions on the implementation of vocabulary that is more “inclusive,” such as “chestfeeding” in lieu of breastfeeding. All of this is to assuage a small but ever-growing percentage of people who reject biological reality and want to be something other than their actual sex.
In 2017, I was 41 years old and at a pinnacle point in my career. ….