5 Things You Should Know About LGBTQIA+ Rights and Health

Reproductive health goes beyond the binary. That’s why we’re highlighting 5 important facts to advocate for a more inclusive movement.

• Sex Ed Does Not Always Include LGBT+ Representation – According to a recent report by URGE, less than 10% of LGBTQIA+ youth have said they received inclusive sex education in school. Getting honest and accurate information can be challenging and it’s important to be inclusive of all identities as we advocate for sex ed in schools. 
• Birth Control is for Everyone – No matter how you identify, you may have birth control needs. Everyone deserves to have accessible reproductive healthcare, including access to birth control. There are so many reasons we need birth control in our lives and each one is valid. Check out Bedsider for more info on birth control across the gender spectrum.
• We Must Address LGBTQIA+ Health Disparities – According to healthypeople.gov, LGBT individuals face health disparities linked to societal stigma. Factors like discrimination are associated with rates of suicide and substance abuse. So much is needed to bring justice to the LGBTQIA+ community, however, addressing health issues specific to the LGBT+ community is the first step in creating change.
• Creating Inclusive Healthcare Spaces – We’re working with clinics across Houston to improve the way we address reproductive healthcare in the healthcare space and ensure everyone has access to the health services they need. If you want to learn how to make healthcare spaces more inclusive, click here.
• LGBTQIA+ Rights Are Part of the Reproductive Rights Movement Too – A study by Guttmacher Institute estimated that several hundred transgender and nonbinary individuals obtained abortions nationally in 2017. While LGBTQIA+ folks are not always in the spotlight when it comes to reproductive justice issues, we need to center their stories too. Reproductive rights are human rights. 

We’re working with Houston clinics to make healthcare spaces inclusive and safe for all. Learn more about our health center locations here.