Finding The Right Physician And Regular Check-ups

Lesbians are less likely to have had regular Pap smears.  This may be due to:

• A personal belief that there is no risk of STIs and cervical cancer
• Not being able to afford it
• Being told by health professionals that lesbians don’t need Pap smears
• Not routinely visiting a health professional for other reasons (e.g. for contraception)
• Difficulties finding a suitable health professional
• Previous experience of homophobia or fear of homophobia

Early changes in the cervix that can progress into cervical cancer have been found in lesbians.
Current national recommendations are that all women aged between 18 and 70 who have ever had sex need to have a Pap smear every two years.
Whilst the risk of cervical cancer for women who have only ever had sex with women is uncertain, it is advisable to discuss with a health professional knowledgeable in the area of sexual health whether you are at risk of cervical cancer and should consider having a Pap smear.
If you experience symptom like bleeding between periods, after menopause or following sexual activity or abnormal discharge you should see a health professional, even if your previous Pap smear result was normal.
Finding a health professional

A health professional who understands your health issues as a lesbian is important.  To find someone suitable you can:

• Ask friends
• Look for advertisements in the gay and lesbian press.