Lesbians can generally be defined as women
who have sex with or primary emotional partnerships with women, but there is no
universally accepted definition; variability exists in relationships and sexual
preferences. Lesbians are found in every
ethnic group and socioeconomic class. They can be single, celibate, divorced,
teens, and seniors. Most experts believe that sexual orientation is not a
conscious choice.
Lesbian has often encountered sensitivity in
health care encounters. When they are ask if they are sexually active and
respond affirmatively, contraception is immediately urged as heath care
providers may assume incorrectly that they practice heterosexual intercourse.
Similar to many other marginalized groups of women, they often underuse health
care. Some health care providers are homophobic and discrimination against
lesbians has been found in health care. Whether heterosexual or homosexual,
need to consider lesbianism within the continuum of human sexual behavior and
need to used gender- neutral question and terms that are non-judgmental and
accepting. Lesbian teens are at risk for suicide and STD’s. Many lesbian do
participate in heterosexual activity and often consider themselves at low risk
for STD’s. Because HPV, herpes infection and other organism implicated in STDs
are transmitted by secretions and contact, they may need information on STDs
and contraception. If sex are used and not cleaned, pelvic infections can
occur.
Lesbians may smoke and drink more alcohol,
may have a higher body mass index, may bear fewer or no children, and often
have fewer health preventive screenings than heterosexual women. These factors
may predispose them to colon, lung, endometrial, ovarian and breast cancer as
well as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Health care provider need to
understand the unique needs of this population and provide appropriate and
sensitive care.
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