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Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. You deserve the best health care you can find. When you find a doctor who makes you feel comfortable and safe, you're more likely to go to the doctor when you need to. You're also more likely to get care that focuses on you as a whole person. Here are some tips to help you get the best care. Before you make an appointment: Think about checking out Planned Parenthood. It can be a welcoming place to get affordable wellness exams, preventive screenings, tests for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), birth control, condoms, and family planning. If you get nervous in a health care setting, you might try repeating a positive affirmation like "I deserve good care." If you have a partner, consider bringing them to appointments. They may be able to help you stay relaxed, ask questions, or take notes. If you don't have a partner, you can ask a friend or family member to go with you. If you don't feel like you can be open and comfortable, look elsewhere. You shouldn't have to hide or downplay your relationships or who you are. And you shouldn't feel judged. It's okay to try out different doctors. And it's okay to ask lots of questions. What screening tests you have depend on what body parts you have, your personal and family history, your age, and your sexual activity. And screening for certain cancers may depend on if you take hormones. Talk to your doctor about what screenings you need. Your doctor can help you figure out what other screenings you may need. These may include screenings for cholesterol, diabetes, or certain cancers, like breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer. Along with getting screenings, you and your doctor can also discuss ways to do more of the things that help keep you healthy in general. These include things like being active, eating healthy foods, and spending time with others. For many reasons, LGBTQ+ people may have extra stress. If you move through life with added stress, it can affect your health and how you feel day to day. For example, you may: One key to managing extra stress is to get better at recognizing when and how you feel it. In your back? In your sleep? It's even more important to find out what helps you feel better. A hot shower? Stretching? Calling a friend? If you're in tune with how you feel and why, and if you have some tools to feel better, you'll be more likely to make healthy choices. And you'll be less likely to turn to things like alcohol, drugs, or food. Having a strong support network can also be a great way to lower stress. Connecting with others can help people feel better and live longer. Current as of: November 27, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Current as of: November 27, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.Topic Contents
LGBTQ Health
Overview
How can you get the best care?
What do you need to know about screenings?
How can stress affect your health?
Related Information
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Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.