Government to phase out the term "abnormal delivery" from official documents
Published
The Japanese government has decided to stop using the term "abnormal delivery" (ijō bunben), which refers to childbirth requiring medical intervention, in official documents moving forward. While the term has been used as a medical classification until now, it has been pointed out that the negative connotation of the word causes anxiety for families preparing for childbirth.
According to the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, the term "abnormal delivery" will be replaced with more neutral and clearer expressions such as "delivery under medical management" or "delivery involving medical procedures." This change aims to deepen social understanding of childbirth and create an environment where people can approach delivery with a positive mindset.
This decision reflects the opinions of medical professionals and individuals who have experienced childbirth. There has been ongoing discussion regarding the need to review the choice of language, as the word "abnormal" carries a strong negative impression associated with illness or trouble.
Going forward, the new terminology will be used in a wide range of documents, including statistical materials and guidelines issued by the government. Through this change, the government intends to convey the message that even when medical support is required, childbirth is by no means an "abnormal" event.
Sources: 時事通信ニュース
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