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Lesbian women have the same healthcare needs as all women; however, unlike their heterosexual counterparts, they are at higher risk for obesity, certain cancers, substance use or abuse, and depression. Also, issues relevant to all women (e.g., intimate partner violence [IPV], sexually transmitted infections [STIs]) may affect lesbian women differently. These health disparities are perpetuated by social stigma and discrimination, which inhibit access to healthcare.
The term “lesbian” refers to a sexual identity, a label used to recognize that a woman has physical, emotional, or sexual attractions toward other women.1 This label does not provide information about sexual behaviors or romantic relationships, which are often incon…