I hope you took a moment to celebrate PRIDE this month but if you didn't, here's your chance. I've compiled a very large list of links to blogs and websites spreading information, ideas and commentary - all regarding Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Health.

At the Rainbow Network a pretty shocking article from February...

The responses uncovered shocking incidents of lesbians being refused smear tests or suffering humiliating treatment at the hands of NHS staff.

One respondent disclosed that, after she had revealed her sexual orientation to her GP, the GP had put on a pair of gloves. This was unconnected with any treatment being given.

Another women was undergoing a smear test and a nurse insisted that a male doctor be present on discovering the patient’s sexual orientation.

• Find a Friendly Physician: Gay Lesbian Medical Association
• Advance Planning Lambda Legal
• Lifelines NCLR
• The Issues National Gay & Lesbian Task Force
• Don't Ask Don't Tell Health Issues

From lowlandhalod...

And of course, there is the marriage issue. All of the benefits of marriage that I take for granted as a heterosexual person are not granted to them. If a GLBT partner faces an illness or emergency in the hospital, their partners can be forbidden to stay by their sides if they have not gone and formally gotten power of attorney. And there are issues of health insurance, death benefits, etc... that gay and lesbian partners are not afforded.

From Queerty...

Either it's just the cold weather in British Columbia, or lesbian teens are not getting the kind of outreach they need in the province, according to a new study by the McCreary Centre Society that reveals a shocking 38% percent of lesbian teens have attempted suicide. Compare this to the 8.2% of straight girls and 8.8% of gay boys, and you have a visible problem.

Here's to your health, gay or straight.

~~Denise

Daily Dose of Denise and Fast Times @ Homeschool High