How Does Gender Identity Impact Sexual Health?

July 20, 2024
ARIANA LEVI

What is Gender Identity and How Does it Impact Sexual Health?

Before diving into the nitty-gritty of how gender identity impacts sexual health, let’s get on the same page regarding what we mean by "gender identity." In a nutshell, gender identity is one's internal sense of their own gender, whether that's male, female, a blend of both, or neither. It’s all about what’s going on upstairs, between the ears, rather than what’s between the legs.

Unlike sexual orientation, which is about who you're attracted to, gender identity is about who you are. Now that we've got the basics squared away let's explore how this personal understanding of gender can have far-reaching effects on sexual health.

Sexual health doesn't just mean not having STIs or using condoms. It’s a broad term encompassing everything from sexual well-being to safe and satisfying experiences. When we throw gender identity into the mix, things get a bit more complex in ways that can be positive, neutral, or problematic.

Let’s face it, dear reader: the healthcare system isn’t always up to snuff regarding inclusivity. Many healthcare providers don’t receive adequate training in LGBTQ+ health, which can make it tricky for people with non-cisgender identities to get the care they need. This lack of training can result in misgendering, alienation, or even downright refusal of care—all of which can discourage individuals from seeking medical help, including for sexual health issues.

Imagine needing a Pap smear and having to explain your gender identity for the umpteenth time to a provider who just doesn’t get it. That exhaustion can lead some to skip out on crucial medical tests altogether. When healthcare providers aren’t aware of diverse gender identities, it can result in a lack of comprehensive sexual health screenings, access to hormone therapy, and even appropriate sexual education materials.

It’s no revelation that societal norms and prejudices can wreak havoc on mental health. Non-cisgender individuals often face unique stressors, from discrimination to the exhaustion of constantly having to justify their existence. Poor mental health can directly impact sexual health. Stress, depression, and anxiety can lower libido, make safe sex practices less of a priority, and even lead to risky sexual behavior as a coping mechanism.

On the flip side, a supportive environment can be a game-changer. The right communities and affirming relationships can do wonders for sexual health, providing both validation and practical advice tailored to the unique needs of non-cisgender individuals.

Sexual education is one area where inclusivity often falls short. Much of the sexual education out there is heteronormative and cisnormative, meaning it assumes everyone is straight and identifies with the gender they were assigned at birth. This leaves a lot of folks out in the cold when it comes to learning about safe sex practices that are relevant to their personal experiences. However, the resources are slowly becoming more inclusive with advocacy and progress. There are more initiatives now to provide comprehensive sex education that includes all gender identities, but there’s still a long way to go.

Gender identity can significantly impact one's sexual behavior and practices. For instance, the way someone identifies can influence not just who they’re attracted to but also their preferences in sexual activities and how they prefer to be touched and treated in intimate settings. Navigating sexual relationships can be tricky and daunting, especially without adequate resources and understanding from sexual partners. Having to educate partners about boundaries, pronouns, and preferences repeatedly can contribute to an exhausting cycle that detracts from sexual health and satisfaction. Moreover, the fear of being misunderstood or rejected can push some individuals into unhealthy relationships or isolated lifestyles, further impacting their overall sexual well-being.

When it comes to gender identity and sexual health, awareness and sensitivity are key. An understanding of diverse gender identities by healthcare providers, educators, and society at large can go a long way in improving the sexual health of non-cisgender individuals. This means better training for healthcare providers, more inclusive curricula in sex-ed classes, and unwavering support within social circles. For you, dear reader, whether you’re grappling with your own gender identity or striving to be a better ally, the best way forward is through education and empathy.