“There is a lot happening in our country that is out of our control right now. Advocating for our health has never been more important & it is within our power to request services that will benefit our overall wellness. Appointments & procedures can be intimidating, nerve-wracking, and confusing, especially for LGBTQIA+ folks. By discussing our stories & encouraging others to seek out healthcare resources, we have the power to save lives together.”

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Several years ago, I met with a gynecologist about a health concern I was having. I was worried about finding a doctor that would make me feel comfortable, so it took me a few months to commit to making an appointment. Luckily, I met with a professional whose calmness & kindness made a difference in my experience. She did not falter when I explained that I was in a long-term relationship with a woman, and she did not scoff when I discussed my fear of pain, even during standard procedures. At her office, I had a Pap test done, which helped us rule out specific concerns, so we could further define the actual problem together. After a few weeks, my initial health concern began to improve. When @ProtectThePap reached out to discuss this campaign, I appreciated their use of inclusive language. Their goal in starting this nationwide conversation is to ensure any person who has a cervix – regardless of gender or sexual orientation – has awareness of the preventative impact a Pap test can have. Within the United States, research has proven that the Pap test is a critical factor in the early detection of cervical cancer, drastically improving the outlook when this test is a part of a routine wellness screening. There is a lot happening in our country that is out of our control right now. Advocating for our health has never been more important & it is within our power to request services that will benefit our overall wellness. Appointments & procedures can be intimidating, nerve-wracking, and confusing, especially for LGBTQIA+ folks. By discussing our stories & encouraging others to seek out healthcare resources, we have the power to save lives together. Have you ever had a Pap test done? Leave a comment below to share your experience or words of encouragement. ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜 #ProtectThePap Paid for by Protect the Pap

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