If you are a lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT) person, you may be more at risk of certain medical conditions. You are entitled to healthcare appropriate for your sexual/gender identity. Screening and self-checking are important ways of protecting your health. It is a good idea to be informed about which screening and self-checks you need to receive.
Gender Dysphoria
Sexual Health
The Cardiff Royal Infirmary provides testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including HIV. The City Clinic at the Cardiff Royal Infirmary has a service specifically for men who have sex with men and provides full sexual health screening. You may have heard that lesbian and bisexual women, female-assigned non-binary individuals and trans men are not at risk of STIs, but this is not true.
You do not need to see your GP before attending a sexual health clinic.
The Department of Sexual Health Clinic, Cardiff Royal Infirmary
Sexual Health for LGBT men
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Vaccination for men who have sex with men
Transgender Health
If you are a transgender or non-binary person, your particular needs may be best addressed by transgender health services offered by NHS gender identity clinics (GICs). Talk to your GP about being referred to a GIC.
If you have changed your gender on your NHS records, you may find that you are not invited to the appropriate screening tests when you should be. Talk to your GP and your consultant, if you have one, about this. Even if you have had gender-affirming treatment (such as a mastectomy), you may still need screening for certain health conditions.
Trans access to healthcare
Screening for Trans People
Mental Health
If you need help right now: Samaritans 116 123
LGBT people are more likely to have mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, suicidal feelings, eating disorders, self harm and substance abuse. Bullying, prejudice, and discrimination can have an impact on your mental health, your self-esteem, and your general outlook on life. LGBT people who are Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic are at an especially high risk of mental health problems.