“Give me the sense that I matter:” Queer women’s recommendations for an ideal cervical cancer screening exam and pathways to screening equity
Background:
Cervical cancer screening is a powerful tool in the prevention, early detection, and diagnosis of precancers and cancer. There is mounting evidence, however, demonstrating that Queer cisgender women experience disparities in cervical cancer screening access and uptake compared to their heterosexual counterparts. To close gaps in screening, Queer women’s voices and visions must foreground recommendations aimed at remedying screening inequities.
Objectives:
This study aims to explore perceptions on an ideal cervical cancer screening exam among a racially and ethnically diverse group of Queer women.
Design:
This qualitative interview study is led in partnership with a multidisciplinary community steering committee. Our work is grounded in the Reproductive Justice Framework.
Methods:
We held in-depth interviews with 19 Queer women to understand their recommendations for improving cervical cancer screening experiences for their community. Data from these interviews were analyzed through thematic analysis.
Results:
We identified five themes around creating an ideal cervical cancer screening experience among Queer women: (1) community outreach and education, (2) cues of affirmation and safety, (3) Queer patient navigation and advocacy, (4) Queer-affirming and knowledgeable providers, and (5) trauma-informed care.
Conclusion:
Engaging Queer women in developing solutions to address screening disparities is a missing link in cervical cancer prevention and the advancement of reproductive health equity. We share actionable strategies at the healthcare professional, community, and organizational levels to support healthcare systems in translating Queer women’s visions into practice. Our findings also inform medical organizations, expert panels, and health authorities on patient-defined strategies and pathways to remedying screening inequity.
