Table 3.

Recommendations for providing inclusive care for patients

Use gender-neutral language (for example, use “partner” or “sexual partner” instead of husband or boyfriend)

Add categories for domestic partners or significant others to intake, insurance, and emergency contact forms

Remember that some women who have sex with women do not identify themselves as lesbian or bisexual but may use “gay” or “queer” or answer yes when asked if they have sex with women

Take an inclusive sexual history (for example, by asking “Do you have sex with men, women, or both?” or “Do have one or more than one sexual partner?” instead of “When did you last have sex?” or “When did you last have intercourse?”)

Provide appropriate advice about safer sex and screening for sexually transmitted infections according to the patients' sexual behavior, not just their sexual orientation, instead of making assumptions about monogamy, marital status, or motherhood

Recommend contraception when appropriate (for example, ask “Do you need anything for contraception?” instead of “What do you use for birth control?”)