Experiences of gynecological care by lesbian and bisexual women: (in)visibility and barriers to the exercise of the right to health

• Published in: Saúde e sociedade Vol. 30; no. 1; p. 1
• Main Authors: Rodrigues, Julliana Luiz, Falcão, Marcia Thereza Couto
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English; Portuguese
• Published: Sao Paulo Universidade de Sao Paulo, Faculdade de Saude Publica 01.01.2021
• Subjects: Bias; Bisexuality; Discrimination; Gays & lesbians; Gender; Gynecology; Health care; Health services; Heteronormativity; Heterosexuality; Lesbianism; Multiculturalism & pluralism; Qualitative research; Sexual orientation; Sexuality; Stigma; Values; Women; Womens health
• ISSN: 0104-1290; 1984-0470
• DOI: 10.1590/s0104-12902021181062

Although lesbian and bisexual women have been included in health policies, in the search for comprehensive care, including the recognition of sexual diversity, discrimination persists in health care spaces, especially in clinical consultations. Based on the perceptions and experiences of these women, this qualitative study discusses, the relationships established in gynecological consultations, addressing the disclosure of the status of being lesbian/bisexual, experiences with exams and guidelines relevant to sexuality and the difficulties of negotiating conduct. The production of empirical data took place through semi-structured interviews with twelve lesbians and five bisexuals. The results point to bisexual invisibility in the clinical context. Difficulties in gynecological consultation involve fears regarding the exposure of sexual orientation, as well as the non-validation of their sexuality. Consultations in gynecology remain centered on heteronormative assumptions. Thus, they operate with a preponderance of reproductive aspects to the detriment of sexual aspects of life.