Sitting in the clinic waiting room and aimlessly scrolling through your phone can already feel awkward enough, but for many LGBTQIA+ young people, going to the doctor adds a whole other layer of stress. Between worrying if a provider will use your correct pronouns, respect your identity, or truly understand your questions, it can be tempting to just avoid the visit altogether. But staying on top of your health is a huge part of gaining independence, and you deserve an affirming environment where you can get the care you need without hiding who you are.
Why getting care can feel so complicated
If you have ever avoided scheduling a check-up because you were worried about being judged, you are not alone. Research shows that LGBTQIA+ young adults often run into real roadblocks when trying to get healthcare. Past negative experiences, fear of stigma or discrimination, concerns about keeping conversations confidential, and difficulty finding LGBTQIA+-affirming providers and clinics can all make healthcare visits feel stressful or unsafe. Some adolescents may avoid asking questions or discussing sensitive health topics altogether because they worry they will not be understood, respected, or supported.
On top of that, dealing with mental health concerns, unstable housing, and lack of insurance coverage can make getting to the doctor’s office feel impossible. But skipping these visits often means missing out on important care, including conversations about recommended vaccinations that keep you healthy and ready for everything you have planned.
One vaccine you definitely want on your radar
When you do make it into the clinic, one of the most important things to check on is the HPV vaccine. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is extremely common and can lead to several types of cancers later in life. The HPV vaccine is recommended for everyone regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. Even so, bringing up sexual health and preventive care can feel awkward or difficult for some LGBTQIA+ adolescents to navigate.
What supportive care looks like
You deserve to feel comfortable asking questions about vaccines, mental health or anything else going on with your body. When you visit a healthcare provider, look for signs that they are in your corner. A great provider will:
- Ask for and use your preferred name and pronouns
- Give you confidential, private space to talk
- Listen openly without making assumptions about your identity, relationships or behaviors
- Use inclusive and affirming language that makes you feel respected
When adolescents feel safe and supported, they are more likely to build trusting relationships with healthcare providers and engage in preventive healthcare, including staying up to date on recommended vaccinations.
When you feel safe with your healthcare team, it is much easier to build trust, get accurate information and stay up to date on recommended vaccines. This Pride Month, remember that you have the right to a healthcare space where you feel seen. If your current clinic doesn’t feel like a good fit, you and your parents and look for LGBTQIA+ affirming providers in your area. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, advocate for yourself and make the best decisions for your health.
References:
Joudeh, L., Harris, O. O., Johnstone, E., Heavner-Sullivan, S., & Propst, S. K. (2021). “Little Red Flags”: Barriers to Accessing Health Care as a Sexual or Gender Minority Individual in the Rural Southern United States-A Qualitative Intersectional Approach. The Journal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care : JANAC, 32(4), 467–480. https://doi.org/10.1097/JNC.0000000000000271
The Trevor Project. (2022). Homelessness and housing instability among LGBTQ youth. https://www.thetrevorproject.org/research-briefs/homelessness-and-housing-instability-among-lgbtq-youth-feb-2022/
American Cancer Society. (2026, March 19). Cancers linked with HPV. American Cancer Society
