Finding support and building a good relationship with your healthcare professionals can help you to have a feeling of empowerment that can lead to overall greater wellbeing.
***Key Points***
Often members of the LGBTIQA+ community are at risk of/ and experience poorer sexual and reproductive health because of lack of awareness of the health care professional, stigma and discrimination.
There are limited resources specifically related to pregnancy for the LGBTIQA+ community. LGBTIQA+ support workers should be part of your pregnancy care team.
***Key Points***
***Resources***
RESOURCES:
1800MYOPTIONS can provide you or your support person with sexual and reproductive health advice and support. Call 1800 696 784 during business hours. Visit the website for more information.
Rainbow Door is a free service providing support, information and referral for the LGBTIQA+ community. Call 1800 729 367 10am – 5pm 7 days a week. Interpreters are available. You can also text 0480 017 246 or email support@rainbowdoor.org.au
Information regarding specialised pregnancy care is limited. However, when pregnant and booking in to the hospital you can request to see a social worker who will provide guidance and support. You could ask if there are any LGBTIQA+ friendly antenatal classes available, or you may be able to find some available privately in the community.
Raising Children Network have links to national, state and territory support services for LGBTIQA+ parents, their friends and families.
Queer and LGBTIQA+ support services in Australia.
Queerspace provide counselling, advocacy and case management based in Carlton, Melbourne. Call 03 9663 6733 for more information or complete this form to access counselling services.
Visit PANDA for information about mental health support.
Qlife offers anonymous, free peer support and referral. Call 1800 184 527 or Webchat between 3pm and midnight.
***Resources***
