Knowing Your Patients: Taking a History and ... - Fenway Health

Considerations for Transgender
Patients
� Gender identity is distinct from sexual orientation (don’t assume
transgender people are gay, lesbian, bisexual, etc.)
� Transgender people express the same range of sexual behavior and
identity as non-transgender people
� Ask about any gender confirmation surgery to help assess sexual risk
behaviors and to guide your physical examination; do not make
assumptions based on stated identity or external appearances
� Your examination should focus on organs that are present; however,
note that some people who have retained original sexual organs, where
these organs may be inconsistent with their gender identity, may be
extra sensitive to questions about sexual practices and examination of
these organs. The same may be true of questions and examination of
breasts.
� Do not hesitate to ask your patients for clarification of certain terms or
behaviors. Let them teach you!
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