How to Find an LGBTQ+ Friendly Care Provider for Pregnancy, Birth, and Postpartum

Despite the significant progress that's been made for people who are LGBTQ+, the fact remains that in most countries, the health care system is heteronormative (promoting heterosexuality as "normal" or preferred) and many professionals in the system lack vital knowledge of LGBTQ+ family issues and/or hold harmful negative views.

Care providers -- doctors, OBs, midwives, pediatricians, etc. -- who are culturally competent in caring for LGBTQ+ folks means better, safer, and healthier care experiences and outcomes for families. If you are trying to become pregnant, planning an adoption, pregnant, or in the postpartum period and seeking a care provider who will truly support and understand your experiences and health care needs, turn to the following website directories to help you find an LGBTQ+ friendly medical professional.

OutCare

"If you are looking for a healthcare provider who understands LGBTQ+ needs, start your search by entering your location and picking a specialty. Keywords are optional. If you want to see all providers near you, enter just your location and search."

Planned Parenthood

"We are committed to advancing the health of young people in this country by providing comprehensive sex education that is medically accurate, culturally responsive, equitable and accessible — as well as inclusive of varying gender identities, expressions and sexual orientations."

GLMA

"Are you lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer and looking for a healthcare professional you can trust? GLMA’s online Provider Directory can help. Search for primary care providers, specialists, therapists, dentists and other health professionals in your area."

Lighthouse

"Whether you’re still in the closet, freshly out, or acting grand marshall at this year’s Pride Parade, Lighthouse helps you find healthcare professionals who are right for you."

Word of Mouth and/or Reddit

In-real-life word of mouth or in online discussion boards like those housed on Reddit can be a great source for finding LGBTQ+ culturally competent medical providers.

If you can't find a provider near you who is publicly listed/described as LGBTQ+ friendly, call the office and find out. Ask questions like, 

• "Do you have LGBTQ+ identified practitioners in your staff?"
• "Does your practice any experience handling transgender or other LGBTQ+ care?"
• "Does your practice have any LGBTQ+ patients?"
• "How does your practice address LGBTQ+ specific issues?"