“People with disabilities have the same sexual and reproductive health needs as others. Talking about sex can be uncomfortable, but it shouldn’t keep you from accessing healthcare.”
It’s imperative that people with disabilities know their rights to speak openly and be treated equally.
Jump to :39 for tips for providers on how they should interact with their patients with disabilities, ensuring they are treated fairly.
Tips for people with disabilities to work with healthcare providers in a professional setting:
- Acknowledge your discomfort. “It’s not the most comfortable topic, but could we talk about sex for a minute?”
- Approach the topic from a health perspective. Introduce an issue you have that is impacting your sexual activity to open the door.
- Be prepared with questions written down ahead of time.
- Understand your body and your medical needs.
“Patients should have the confidence to discuss their needs and wants with their medical providers.”
Tips on planning a successful doctor’s visit:
- Request any accommodations you need when you schedule the appointment.
- Ask questions if you don’t understand.
- Write down your questions ahead.
- Don’t let others speak for you, make sure your provider speaks directly to you.
- Ask doctor to draw pictures or show a model to explain a treatment or diagnosis.
- Take notes in whatever way works for you.
- Let providers know if you need assistance or have questions.
- Be proactive about your health. You have the right to choose your provider.
“People with disabilities are sexual beings and deserve access to information and resources to make good choices about their sexual and reproductive health.”
Your rights as a person with a disability:
- Access to the highest standard of sexual and reproductive healthcare services
- Access to sexuality education
- Choose your own partner
- Choose to be sexually active or not
- Decide whether or not to have children and when
- Pursue a safe and satisfying sexual life
“Communicate clearly and ask providers for exactly what you need. They’ll be glad you did, and so will you.”
Share it with someone who would benefit from learning about their sexual and reproductive health rights.