Women's Health

Caring for Vulnerable Populations: A Starter Guide for OB/GYNs

OB/GYNs must be more keenly aware than ever of the intricacies of providing care to vulnerable populations. Here are a few best practices.

Today, OB/GYNs must be more keenly aware than ever of the intricacies of providing care to vulnerable populations. For example, an estimated 1.4 million U.S. adults are transgender — having a gender identity different from the sex they were assigned at birth. And according to the United Nations approximately one-third of women worldwide experience sexual or physical violence in their lifetime. Each of these populations requires a distinct and special approach when it comes to OB/GYN care.

This collection of frequently asked questions can help you provide exceptional, informed care to vulnerable populations in your practice.

  1. What are the best practices for providing care to diverse populations? As the patient landscape continues to evolve, clinicians also need to adapt. You can provide meaningful, quality care by learning about the challenges and needs of your diverse patient population, whether that means understanding racial disparities, treating survivors of sexual violence or respecting patients' religious and moral beliefs.
  2. How can clinicians help sexual abuse survivors feel more comfortable with pelvic exams? For patients with a history of sexual violence, routine pelvic exams can trigger discomfort and flashbacks, creating additional trauma. OB/GYNs can take steps to provide a safe and open environment for such patients so that important screenings do not go ignored.
  3. What is a trauma-informed pelvic exam? Whether a patient has experienced a sexual assault, domestic violence, an accident or even a negative clinical interaction with another provider, trauma-informed care can help recognize and validate that previous experience. By following best practices, OB/GYNs can incorporate this approach into their care of trauma survivors, including younger patients.
  4. Do transgender patients need a Pap smear? If they have a uterus and ovaries, transmasculine and nonbinary patients should still receive regular gynecologic care and screenings. You can help ease any associated trepidation by discussing the need for such exams — and what to expect during one — in advance.
  5. What are some non-heteronormative fertility options, such as reciprocal IVF, that providers should know about? Not all fertility patients are heterosexual couples. For same-sex female couples who desire biological children, reciprocal IVF can offer the opportunity to share in the process of conception. The technique can also benefit transgender men and nonbinary prospective parents.

As the patient population for OB/GYNs continues to change, it's crucial to consider the needs of diverse and vulnerable populations. By educating yourself on best practices, you can ensure optimal patient care.