What to Look for in a Sexual Health Care Provider

Remember, a health care provider who takes good care of your sexual health should:

• Have a friendly and welcoming staff
• Speak clearly and use words you understand
• Put you at ease and listen to any sexual and reproductive health issues that are important to you
• Answer your questions and address your concerns in a helpful, respectful way
• Ask what your pronouns are and use them
• Ask permission before performing any tests
• Explain what they’re doing and the reason why
• Keep your conversations confidential
• Support your right to make decisions about your sexual health care, based on your own values and what you believe is best for yourself

A health care provider should NOT:

• Assume to know your sexual behaviors or preferences without asking
• Be judgmental in response to your questions or concerns
• Be disrespectful of your sexual orientation, identity, or preferences
• Deny you care or treatment because of your sexual choices

If you feel uncomfortable with your health care provider for any reason, listen to your feelings. Ask your friends or family to recommend someone you can trust, research providers through an online rating site, or ask your health plan for a list of top-rated doctors in your area.