LGBTQ+ Health
LGBTQ+ Health
Finding healthcare that affirms your identity and is inclusive of your needs as an LGBTQ young adult is key to your physical and emotional health. We’ve gathered resources to help you advocate for your healthcare needs as well as find professionals to give you the care you deserve. First, if you are thinking about coming out to family and friends, we understand how nerve-wrecking that could be. The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) has an on-line coming out center that could help you talk about your identity on your own terms. Check out HRC’s coming out center here.
Also check out this video from BuzzFeed on life Before vs. After coming out:
Coming out to your Healthcare Professional
You have the right to receive affirming and safe medical care. This isn't always possible because there are some doctors that do not understand the specific needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and queer young people and can operate in a harmful way. Here are a few ways to assess if a doctor is queer affirming.
Keep in mind, anything you share with your doctor should be confidential, you can learn more about what information doctors are allowed to share about you on our healthcare FAQ page. If you are considering talking to your healthcare provider about your sexual and/or gender identity, learn more about how and why here: Do Ask Do Tell: Talking to Your Healthcare Provider about Being LGBTQ.
One way to avoid negative experiences with providers who do not honor and respect your identity is to seek out LGBTQ friendly providers. Use this website to find a provider in Illinois is part of GLMA which supports LGBTQ services. This article has more helpful information on trans-friendly care.
Keep in mind, your health care provider should be able to advise and refer you to specialists for all of your health needs. For example, if your birth sex does not align with your gender, and you are interested in beginning Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy, your doctor should be able to link you to a care healthcare professional to help you begin treatment.
We LOVE zines! Check out this zine from Dr. RAD on self-exams and check-ups.