Lesbians on Medical Encounters: Tales of Heteronormativity, Deception, and Expectations

Abstract

The experiences of lesbian women in medical encounters prove particularly relevant for understanding their difficulties in their relationship with professionals and health services. We carried out semistructured interviews with 30 women aged 21 to 63 years, who define themselves as lesbian. The analysis highlights the difficulties experienced in disclosure of sexuality in medical encounters, the tendency for doctors to come across as heteronormative, and also medical practices experienced as appropriate by interviewees. Analysis of participant experiences demonstrates the need for reflection and decision making to promote the recognition of the sexual citizenship of lesbian women and their empowerment.

Notes

¹Textually, it was explicitly stated that the interview request was within the framework of a research project with one of its objectives being to understand and analyse experiences of discrimination by lesbian women, experienced in different contexts, such as education, healthcare and public participation whether in political parties or social associations and movements.