A recent study delves into the possibilities for Indigenous individuals who have undergone coerced or forced sterilization and their chances of future pregnancies. The report, jointly conducted by the University of Ottawa Centre for Health Law, Policy and Ethics and the Survivors Circle for Reproductive Justice, details the available options, associated costs, and obstacles for survivors seeking to restore their fertility.
Among the options highlighted are procedures like tubal ligation reversal, in vitro fertilization (IVF), surrogacy, and egg donation. Harmony Redsky, the executive director of the Survivors Circle for Reproductive Justice, emphasized that this presents a newfound opportunity for many individuals who may not have previously considered such possibilities.
Redsky, hailing from Wasauksing First Nation in Ontario, views this as just the initial step in assisting survivors in building families post forced or coerced sterilization. She pointed out that significant barriers still exist, including limited service accessibility and the discomfort Indigenous people may face when seeking reproductive health services.
Questioning the lack of prior discussions on reproductive justice, Redsky emphasized the importance of disseminating information about available services and treatments to survivors. She also expressed optimism for legal advancements in addressing this issue, referencing a bill proposed by Métis Senator Yvonne Boyer that aims to criminalize non-consensual sterilization practices.
Katy Bear, a survivor of coerced sterilization two decades ago who recently welcomed a baby girl, played a crucial role as a co-author of the report. Redsky highlighted Bear’s contributions in shedding light on the far-reaching impacts of the issue.
The report recommends establishing patient advocacy roles, compiling a roster of specialized care providers for fertility restoration, and developing cultural safety guidelines for healthcare professionals. Bear shared that she is currently supporting approximately five women within the Survivors Circle who are aspiring to have children following their past experiences.
Bear reflected on the emotional complexities involved in reversing the government’s actions, noting that it not only reopens past traumas but also introduces new challenges. She stressed the need for increased awareness among survivors, some of whom may not even be aware of what has transpired in their own lives.