Transgender Journey: Becoming a Parent

At 26, Chase Minnema started to explore his gender identity during his teenage years. His journey led to an unexpected role as a parent. Residing in Virginia with his partner, James Brewer, 29, they are embracing life with their 6-week-old son. They describe this experience as rewarding and fulfilling.

“Being parents is the best experience of our lives,” they shared in an interview. Minnema’s self-discovery began at 14. Initially questioning if he was a lesbian, he eventually acknowledged a deeper truth. He said, “I felt different. Then I realized I was meant to be a man.”

In August 2016, after high school, he commenced hormone therapy and later underwent top surgery. Reflecting on his journey, Minnema said he was fortunate to have a supportive family, though he faced online negativity and dating challenges. “I am upfront about who I am,” he mentioned. His honesty has led to difficulties, but Brewer affirms, “It’s his heart that matters. He is a person, and I let him be himself.”

Initially, Minnema envisioned having children in his future but didn’t expect a biological child. However, he eventually chose this path. “I always wanted kids. I didn’t think I’d have one naturally. But I figured, why not have a biological child?” Brewer also cherished the idea of fatherhood from a young age, helping with his cousin’s children. “It’s a dream come true,” he said.

Planned Parenthood explains that gender-affirming hormone therapy, including testosterone, isn’t a contraceptive. Trans men can still conceive if they have a uterus and ovaries. Pregnancy can occur even if periods stop. “The chances decrease with hormones, but it doesn’t completely stop,” Minnema noted. He had paused hormone therapy before conceiving, impacting his pregnancy.

The pregnancy experience for Minnema as a transgender man was largely positive. “Being pregnant wasn’t the worst,” he shared. Despite occasional dysphoria, he found the experience beautiful. After their son’s birth, the couple began sharing their story online, receiving both support and criticism.

A 2022 University of Pavia study found that transgender parents have similar health outcomes as cisgender parents. Challenges often stem from stigma rather than parenting ability. Brewer said, “People judge us based on our relationship. They say nasty things.” Yet, the couple concentrates on their son’s well-being. “We are loving and caring parents,” Brewer affirmed.

The couple aims to nurture their child to be kind and responsible. Brewer expressed their parenting goals: “We will teach him responsibility, kindness, and being a good person.” Despite negative online remarks, their confidence remains unshaken. Minnema said, “People may believe I am still a girl. I don’t care about online criticism.” Brewer added, “We both have thick skin and focus on our family.”

Looking forward, Minnema and Brewer are open to expanding their family. While Minnema has considered bottom surgery, he finds the current options unsuitable. “We do want more children,” he admitted, pondering another biological child. For now, they cherish the early weeks with their baby, fulfilling a long-held dream.