Advocacy and Allyship in LGBTQ+ Pelvic Health Practice: Empowering Inclusive Care

This session will delve into the critical role of advocacy and allyship in pelvic health practice, with a focus on empowering inclusive care for LGBTQ+ individuals. Participants will explore strategies for advocating for equitable access to pelvic health services and fostering allyship within healthcare settings to better support LGBTQ+ populations. Through interactive discussions and case studies, attendees will gain insights into the unique barriers faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in accessing pelvic health care and learn practical strategies for addressing these disparities. Additionally, the session will highlight the importance of healthcare providers serving as allies in creating affirming and supportive environments for LGBTQ+ patients. By fostering a deeper understanding of advocacy and allyship principles within the context of LGBTQ+ pelvic health, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to champion diversity, equity, and inclusion within their practice.

Learning Objectives

• Understand the importance of advocacy and allyship in promoting inclusive pelvic health care for LGBTQ+ individuals.
• Identify the unique barriers to access faced by LGBTQ+ populations in accessing pelvic health services.
• Learn practical strategies for advocating for policy changes and systemic improvements to address disparities in pelvic health care for LGBTQ+ individuals.
• Discuss the role of healthcare providers as allies in creating affirming and supportive environments for LGBTQ+ patients within pelvic health practice.

Keywords: LGBTQ+, Pelvic Health, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion

About the Presenter

Khushali Trivedi is a dedicated physical therapist with a passion for advancing the field of pelvic health. With a diverse educational background, including a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), Master of Science (MS) in Kinesiology, and currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Women’s Health Physical Therapy, Khushali brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her practice and research endeavors.

Throughout her career, Khushali has been committed to empowering individuals and promoting holistic wellness, particularly in the areas of women's health and pelvic floor dysfunction. Her clinical experience spans various settings, including her role as the director of rehabilitation at Woodcrest Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Flushing, NY.

In addition to her clinical work, Khushali is actively engaged in research and academic pursuits. She has made significant contributions to numerous publications and presentations focused on pelvic health, menstrual management, postpartum rehabilitation, and psychosocial aspects of women's health. Khushali’s dedication to advancing the field is further demonstrated through her involvement in professional organizations. She serves as a member of the Knowledge Transfer Committee for postpartum pelvic pain Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPG) for the American Physical Therapy Association Pelvic Health Academy and as a mentor for the New Jersey Physical Therapy Association. She also contributes as a blog writer for both the APTA Pelvic Academy and Brainz Magazine.

Khushali's commitment to excellence and innovation in pelvic health physical therapy is evident in her ongoing efforts to bridge research, clinical practice, and education. Additionally, she is a co-founder of the non-profit organization VediKh Care, which promotes menstrual hygiene and works towards ending period poverty in underserved communities globally through conducting workshops and seminars. Through her session proposal, Khushali aims to share insights, strategies, and evidence-based approaches to address the evolving needs of patients and practitioners in the field of pelvic health.

Keywords: LGBTQ+, Pelvic Health, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion