Inclusivity is More Than a Rainbow Flag

This presentation is designed for providers of all levels of experience, from those who are already working with LGBTQIA+ patients to those who have an interest in expanding their patient reach.

While the most involved end of the LGBTQ-spectrum, when it comes to pelvic health, is working with transgender folx undergoing gender affirming surgeries, it is likely we are already working with patients who identify as LGBTQIA+. Without us knowing it, our patients may identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, or even asexual and we haven’t necessarily had to change our approach to care - but we should. It is important as providers that we ditch our default to binary language, stop assuming everyone is having penetrative sex, and learn to listen to our patients’ individual needs when providing pelvic floor physical therapy.

It is imperative that we recognize inclusive care goes far beyond hanging a rainbow flag and calling ourselves allies. This starts with providing our patients with a safe space so that they can be provided the opportunity to discuss every pelvic health concern they have and get the answers to all of their questions, without fear of needing to first educate their providers. 

Learning Objectives

1. Recognize the importance of creating an inclusive environment for patients of all gender identities and expressions to ensure patients feel safe, seen, and heard.
2. Demonstrate the ability to decrease harm through effective communication between patients and all clinic staff.
3. Discuss the necessity of inclusive intake paperwork that gathers clinically relevant and appropriate information in a manner that is respectful to the patient.
4. Explain the importance of obtaining consent and utilizing inclusive language when discussing sensitive topics, such as the body and intimacy, to foster a supportive and empowering environment. 

About the Presenter

Joy Noble, PT, DPT, CMTPT/DN, PCES

Dr. Joy Noble has spent her 10-year career working in the field of pelvic floor physical therapy and has helped over one thousand patients with their pelvic floor issues. She has provided numerous presentations on various topics including Gender Inclusivity & Trauma Informed Care to groups that include Johns Hopkins Hospital, the American Physical Therapy Association NY SSIG, Columbia University, and the New York Medical College (Physical Therapy for ALL: Gender-Inclusive & Trauma-Informed Care).

Dr Noble has also served as a panelist for the American Urological Association "Mid-Atlantic Mondays" series and the Maryland Safe Haven’s Gender Affirming Informational Session. She is also founder/owner of Pelvic Pride Physical Therapy & Wellness and the host of Pints & Pelvic Floors: The Podcast.