Members of the LGBTQ+ community have the same health problems and risks as people in the heterosexual community, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and cancer. They also have unique health needs that require compassionate and careful attention. Members of the LGBTQ+ community often face higher physical and mental health risks compared to other populations.
At FemmePro OB/GYN, we welcome anyone from the lesbian, gay, bisexual, non-binary, transgender, and queer and questioning individuals who need gynecological care.
Here are some of the health concerns we see in this community and how we’re able to help.
Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men have a disproportionately high level of sexually transmitted diseases, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These diseases can easily spread to others with whom they are intimate.
At FemmePro OB/GYN, we do thorough screenings and provide treatment for STDs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, AIDS, and syphilis.
Members of the LGBTQ+ community often face tremendous day-to-day stress, likely fueled by discrimination at work and in society. They may turn to drugs, alcohol, and cigarettes to help cope and develop dependence.
The FemmePro OB/GYN providers can help patients determine if substance use is a problem and can get them the assistance they need to overcome it.
Discrimination and stress can also affect a person’s mental health. Youth in the LGBTQ+ community are more than twice as likely to report persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness as compared to heterosexual youth. Transgender college kids are more than five times more likely to suffer an eating disorder as compared to their peers.
Furthermore, transgender youth experience symptoms of depression at twice the rate of other youth. They’re far more likely to consider suicide or attempt suicide than cisgender young people.
At FemmePro OB/GYN, the providers assess patients’ mental health and are ready to offer support when needed. They can refer patients to a trusted provider if more complicated mental health care is required.
Lesbian and bisexual women are more likely to be overweight than heterosexual women. Being overweight puts you at a greater risk for chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.
Stigma, lack of insurance, discrimination, and shame can mean members of the LGBTQ+ community avoid seeking health care.
Finding a provider who supports their needs and concerns also makes access to quality health care a problem. It can feel risky and stressful to discuss sexual activities and gender identity with a healthcare provider; most of the time, it’s just easier to avoid such discussions and healthcare altogether.
We understand that many lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer or questioning people avoid essential health care due to discrimination and judgement. That’s why we provide comprehensive LGBTQ+ reproductive care.
We want you to feel comfortable in your body. Our services include birth control counseling, family planning, and preventive screenings. If you have female body parts, you benefit from our care, regardless of how you identify.
All female-bodied people can contact FemmPro OB/GYN in Garden City, New York & North Massapequa, New York, to get the gynecological care they need. Call one of our offices today or use the online tool to set up an appointment.
