Health professional discourse on the sexual health of lesbian and bisexual women

Abstract

Although factors affecting the sexual health of lesbian and bisexual women are widely recognized, little is known about the reality in Colombia. Attitudes such as homophobia and heterosexism in healthcare services delay diagnosis and treatment and hinder access to services. It is therefore important to understand the perspectives of the people who provide these services. This qualitative study explores the discourse and practices of health professionals working in different areas of healthcare in Cali, Colombia, in relation to this group. Six professionals with between 15 and 30 years of experience in their field took part in the study. The findings reveal gaps in knowledge and in the praxis of healthcare, which must be strengthened to provide the quality of healthcare and the recognition of the needs of diverse populations.