Lesbians experience many of the same health issues as heterosexual women yet their health needs are often overlooked. Many lesbians see a physician infrequently due to discriminatory practices in the health care system. They may have difficulty in identifying a physician with whom they can be open about their sexual orientation. This problem does not lessen as a woman ages. Heterosexual women get much of their information about menopause from their gynecologist yet lesbians are often reluctant to see this specialist because of the necessity of ‘coming out' when issues of birth control are raised. Thus, it appears likely that lesbians' experiences with menopause may be different from those of heterosexual women. This presentation will report the results of an international snowball survey regarding the experiences and health issues surrounding menopause for lesbians. Suggested resolutions will be described as reported by the respondents.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this presentation, the participants will be able to: 1. describe menopausal issues specific to lesbians, 2. describe suggested resolutions for the health care system for lesbians to receive adequate information regarding menopause
Keywords: Lesbian Health, Menopause
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.