Navigating the healthcare system can be a daunting task for anyone, but for those of us who are nonbinary, it often comes with extra challenges and considerations. At FOLX, we recognize the importance of providing affirming, inclusive, and comprehensive care tailored to the needs of nonbinary people. This guide aims to shed light on the specific healthcare needs of nonbinary individuals and offer practical advice for accessing and advocating for the care you deserve.
What do we mean by nonbinary?
Nonbinary is an umbrella term for gender identities that are not exclusively male or female. Nonbinary individuals may identify as a mix of both genders, as neither, or as something entirely different. Some nonbinary individuals identify as transgender (simply put, not the gender they were assigned at birth), but others don’t or may identify as multiple identities. Because the healthcare system is traditionally structured around a very binary understanding of gender, us nonbinary individuals often face unique barriers to receiving appropriate and respectful care.
Common Healthcare Challenges for Nonbinary Folks
1. Misgendering and Lack of Awareness: Many healthcare providers may lack understanding of nonbinary identities, leading to misgendering and inappropriate care. Sometimes it can be hard to get clinicians or office staff to use our correct pronouns, whether they are they/them, mixed pronouns, or something else. It’s crucial to find providers who are knowledgeable and respectful of nonbinary identities.
2. Gendered Medical Forms and Procedures: Medical forms, procedures, and spaces are often gendered, asking us to just select “M” or “F,” or to get care inside, say a “women’s clinic,” when we need OB/GYN care, which can be uncomfortable or inappropriate for nonbinary individuals. Finding clinics and clinicians with inclusive practices and environments is essential.
3. Mental Health Considerations: Nonbinary individuals face higher rates of mental health conditions, in part due to societal stigma and discrimination. Access to mental health support that is affirming and knowledgeable about nonbinary experiences is vital.
4. Access to Gender-Affirming Care: Nonbinary individuals may seek various forms of gender-affirming care, such as hormone therapy or surgeries, which are often not tailored to nonbinary needs. Finding providers who offer flexible and personalized options is key. You should never have to hide parts of your identity or feel like you need to present a certain way (e.g. as a binary trans gender) to get the care you need.
Steps to Tailor Your Healthcare Experience
1. Find Affirming Providers: Seek out healthcare providers who have experience with and are affirming of nonbinary identities. FOLX offers a network of LGBTQIA+ specialized providers across the country who understand and respect your gender identity. We also have a vetted referral network for any specialists you might need or care we don’t provide.
2. Communicate Your Needs Clearly: Don’t hesitate to communicate your needs and preferences to your healthcare providers. Let them know your pronouns, how you identify, and any specific care you require. A good clinician will respect your identity, listen to you, and partner with you in your care.
3. Advocate for Inclusive Practices: If you have the bandwidth, or have an ally who can help, you can advocate for changes in healthcare settings, such as the use of inclusive language on forms and in communication, the availability of gender-neutral restrooms, and training for staff on nonbinary issues.
4. Seek Supportive Mental Health Care: Prioritize your mental health by finding clinicians and therapists who are experienced in working with nonbinary individuals. They can offer valuable support and strategies for coping with societal challenges.
5. Stay Informed and Empowered: Educate yourself about your healthcare rights and the services available to you. FOLX provides resources and support to help you navigate the healthcare system and make informed decisions about your care.
How FOLX Supports Nonbinary Folks
At FOLX, we are dedicated to creating a supportive and empowering healthcare environment for nonbinary folks. Our LGBTQIA+ specialized providers will always respect your gender identity and pronouns, they understand the unique needs of every individual, and will create a health care plan just for you based on your wants and needs.
Here are some ways we support:
Virtual Primary Care
We offer accessible, affirming primary care from the comfort of your home. You can talk to a clinician about a variety of health care concerns, including chronic conditions like anxiety or depression, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, migraines, and more, plus anything else that might be bothering you like skin issues, allergies, asthma, stomach issues, and more. Plus, get your annual wellness visit to ensure you’re staying on top of your health. When you don’t have to worry about being misgendered or explaining your identity, you can focus more easily on your healthcare needs in your visits.
Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy (GAHT)
You can discuss hormone therapy options that cater to your specific needs and goals and your clinician will make a plan personalized to you. Our clinicians can discuss dosing options with you, and we will never restrict your dose options just because you are nonbinary. We understand that nonbinary folks are not all the same; some folks want to microdose or start with lower dosing, some folks want to go on a high or typical hormone dose, and some folks are not interested in hormones at all. Wherever you fall on that spectrum, we can discuss your options and make sure you’re getting exactly what you need to feel affirmed in your gender.
Gender-Affirming Surgery Support
If gender-affirming surgery is something you are interested in, our clinicians are able to support you with pre- and post-surgery visits where they will go over what you might expect, how to prepare for surgery, tips on recovering, and supplies you may need. We can also provide referrals to affirming surgeons in your area and any letters you may need for your surgery.
Sexual and Reproductive Health Care
At FOLX, we provide sexual and reproductive health care such as STI testing, UTI treatment, birth control/contraception, HIV testing and treatment, and more. We also have fertility consultations for those folks who want to explore their options for expanding their family. A clinician can talk you through all of your options and make sure you have the resources you need. We can also refer you to outside specialists or clinics from our vetted network of LGBTQIA+ inclusive providers.
Mental Health Support
Our clinicians can support the treatment of anxiety and depression, and other mental health conditions, with testing, lifestyle modification support, and prescription medications. We also offer talk therapy (in select states) where you can explore your identity in a judgment-free environment with therapists who understand the unique challenges faced by nonbinary folks, plus we have an entire community of support including mental health resources and connection with peers to help you find community.
Social Transition Support
If you’re interested in changing your name or gender marker, we can provide any letters you need. We also have resources on finding gender-affirming clothing, how to come out at work, and more to help guide you through your journey.
Community Resources
We have a wealth of information and resources about all kinds of topics, plus you can join our support groups, events, or interact with other folks who share your identity in our Community Platform.
Your health and well-being are paramount, and you deserve care that respects and affirms your identity. At FOLX, we are committed to redefining healthcare for the LGBTQIA+ community, ensuring that you receive the inclusive, compassionate, and comprehensive care you need.
Conclusion
Nonbinary individuals deserve healthcare that is as diverse and unique as we are. By understanding the specific needs and challenges faced by nonbinary people, we can work towards a more inclusive and affirming healthcare system. At FOLX, we are here to support you every step of the way, providing expert care that honors your identity and promotes your overall well-being.
Additional resources
Gender-Affirming Surgery Letters
Microdosing (Low Dose) Estrogen GAHT
Microdosing (Low Dose) Testosterone GAHT
