To study a sample of Brazilian lesbian, bisexual and heterosexual women concerning their gynecological history and their experience with gynecological care.
An internet-based survey for women aged ≥18 years was conducted to gather epidemiological data on sexual habits, primary gynecological diseases, and patient-gynecologist relationships.
The survey was answered by 1,201 women, with 571 reporting being heterosexual, 272 lesbian, and 358 bisexual. The LB group had fewer Caucasian individuals, used more public health resources, and had more individuals consuming tobacco, alcohol, and recreational drugs. No significant differences were found in the number of individuals with diabetes mellitus, obesity, hypertension, and sexually transmitted diseases. Depression was more common in the LB group. Endometriosis and vaginismus were more common in bisexual women, whereas polycystic ovarian syndrome was more frequent in lesbians. Questions on the patient-gynecologist relationship revealed that most LB women felt uncomfortable and unsatisfied with the treatment received.
The LB group had different epidemiological characteristics from those of the heterosexual group. Differences in morbid antecedents were found only in endometriosis, vaginismus, and polycystic ovarian syndrome. Most LB Brazilian women are unsatisfied with treatment received from gynecologists.
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About The Expert
Gislaine Paviani
Kadija Rahal Chrisostomo
Najila De Marco Sandrin
Mariana Rebello Hilgert
Thelma Skare
Renato Nisihara
References
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