The Student Health Center welcomes LGBTQ+ students to address their holistic health needs in an inclusive, supportive setting. We are committed to creating a welcoming space where students can ask questions, be heard and collaborate.
Sexual Health and Wellness for All
Do you have questions about gender identity, coming out, dating, STI prevention, etc.? We would be happy to talk with you. Great resources on campus include the Peer Sexual Health program, Queer Connections, and the many meeting spaces of LGBTQ+ Western.
See these helpful links:
- Queer Connections
- LGBTQ+ Western
- Trevor Support Center
- Sexual Health Promotion at Western
- Sexual Health Services in the Student Health Center
Please ask us about:
- HPV vaccination – to prevent cervical, anal, and throat cancer and genital warts
- PrEP – a pill you can take daily to prevent HIV
- PEP – medication you can take if you think you’ve been exposed to HIV
- Regular STI checks – available with a nurse or provider
- Contraception & Emergency Contraception
Gender Affirming Care
There is no one right way to be trans. There is no one right way to be nonbinary. Student Health Center clinicians trained in gender affirmation will talk to you about your experience and support your identity. With your goals and health in mind, we can initiate or continue gender affirming hormone therapy, address physical and wellness concerns, and refer to other specialists as needed. The Student Health Center is proud to partner with LGBTQ+ Western, WWU Counseling & Wellness Center, and the WWU Speech and Language Clinic to provide comprehensive care to trans and nonbinary students. As the WWU Gender Affirming Care Team, we approach your care holistically and collaboratively.
Voice Therapy
Students interested in voice therapy can get assistance at Western’s Speech and Language Clinic.
Body Talk
Your comfort is important to us. Please let us know your pronouns and what words you use to describe your anatomy.
Contraception & Emergency Contraception for Non-Binary Folx
Trans and non-binary people can use birth control for pregnancy prevention and for non-contraceptive benefits. Contraception doesn’t interfere with hormone therapy and can suppress menses. Emergency Contraception (EC) is also available. If you take EC, we recommend you do a pregnancy test 4 weeks later and seek further evaluation if you have new pelvic pain or changes in your bleeding pattern. Check out this helpful resource about contraception & EC.
Cancer Screening
If you have a uterus, it’s important to get regular cervical cancer screening. The current recommendation is to do your first pap test age 21, then every three years. Vaginal estrogen for a week before you schedule a pap is helpful if you use testosterone. It will make screening more comfortable & your test more reliable. See this handout on cancer and HPV from the Fenway Institute for more information.