Evidence-based sexual healthcare for the LGBTQIA2+ patient across the lifespan

Abstract

People who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, asexual, two-spirit, or other minority sexual and gender identities (LGBTQIA2+) often avoid seeking healthcare due to social discrimination and stigma. Clinical education in LGBTQIA2+-affirming care is essential but often lacking across disciplines. Provider acceptance, awareness of personal biases, and understanding of microaggressions affecting LGBTQIA2+ people can improve access, outcomes, and survival for this population. Expertise in caring for LGBTQIA2+ people in rural and suburban communities, for people who are transgender, and for people who have undergone or are in the process of undergoing gender-affirming surgeries is essential to offer best-practice healthcare.