If you're a gay teen, are you out to your doctor?
Many teens feel very private about their sexual orientation. Some fear that a doctor will react negatively or tell a parent. Others don't see how sharing that they are gay or lesbian is relevant to an annual physical.
A study published in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine reported that only a third of the gay, lesbian and bisexual teens surveyed told their doctors of their sexual orientation.
Though any teen should be as honest as possible with their health care provider, GLBT teens often have specific health concerns that are important to address. If you are nervous about opening up to your regular doctor, you might want to consider looking for a GLBT friendly provider.
Keep in mind, if you have an open minded doctor, being out can help you get better, more appropriate treatment. It an also save you needless questions about issues that may not apply to you.
Many teens feel very private about their sexual orientation. Some fear that a doctor will react negatively or tell a parent. Others don't see how sharing that they are gay or lesbian is relevant to an annual physical.
A study published in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine reported that only a third of the gay, lesbian and bisexual teens surveyed told their doctors of their sexual orientation.
Though any teen should be as honest as possible with their health care provider, GLBT teens often have specific health concerns that are important to address. If you are nervous about opening up to your regular doctor, you might want to consider looking for a GLBT friendly provider.
Keep in mind, if you have an open minded doctor, being out can help you get better, more appropriate treatment. It an also save you needless questions about issues that may not apply to you.
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