The subjects of a new TVNZ documentary Trans and Pregnant which airs tonight say they have been “really supported and loved” during their unique journey to parenthood.
Frankie and Rāwā Karetai Wood-Bodley are a gay-identifying couple from Canterbury who were filmed over three years for the documentary, directed by Ramon Te Wake.
Trans man Frankie, who uses they/them pronouns, spoke to Breakfast about what it was like to be pregnant as a trans person and carry baby boy Hiwa-i-te-Rangi into the world.
“We did a lot of preparation, and then a couple of years ago we decided we wanted to ‘push go’ and have kids, so it was a logistical journey to come off testosterone, find inclusive clinicians and just plan the journey really.”
They said the couple had been “really well-supported the whole time”.
“Which made a huge difference, and we were really supported and loved by our friends,” they said.
Rāwā said he felt protective of Frankie during the pregnancy, and was “always mindful” of the different spaces the couple went into.
“Fortunately, society treated Frankie just the way that everyone else expects to be treated, and that was with respect.”
The couple said it was an “easy decision” to be followed across three years for the documentary in order to share their unique story with the world.
“We just had so much support to do this, but it’s also a first of it’s kind as you don’t hear this story very often.”
Rāwā said he hoped viewers would be able to see the “amount of love that trans people can experience” through the pregnancy and birthing journey, along with the expression of their cultural identity.
“Also just, I suppose, that it is possible and there is diversity of what family looks like.
“For us engaging with culture, revitalising Māori kaupapa birthing practices and just enjoying the journey along the way has been really awesome. But yeah, that love we have experienced has been great.”
Frankie added: “You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and seeing authentic stories of love on screen… is a really powerful moment.”
Trans and Pregnant airs tonight on TVNZ 1 and TVNZ+ at 7.30pm.
