Disjointed Policy

Inconsistent, unregulated sex education curriculums have left gaps in vital education for youth and young adults in the U.S. — especially for those in LGBTQ communities, says Dr. Macapagal.

"There has been a lot of social change over the past few decades," she says, yet some laws and education have yet to catch up. For example:

• Sex education is legally required in only 29 states and Washington, D.C.
• Only 15 states require sex education to be "medically accurate," and the definition of "medically accurate" varies widely across states.
• Only nine states require that discussion of LGBTQ identities and relationships be inclusive and affirming.
• Seven states either prohibit sex education from including LGBTQ identities and relationships or require that sex education curricula frame LGBTQ identities and relationships negatively.

Exclusion and Unhealthy Behaviors

When people exclude identities and experiences of LGBTQ youth from sex education materials, it enhances feelings of isolation, says Dr. Macapagal. This poses long-term dangers for physical and emotional well-being.

"LGBTQ youth have higher unwanted pregnancy rates, higher risks of contracting sexually transmitted infections and HIV, and higher rates of partner violence," Dr. Macapagal says. "The exclusion of LGBTQ identities has a lot of ramifications for not only sexual health, but also romantic relationships down the road."

Such exclusion feeds the stigma around LGBTQ identities and sexual behavior, and leaves LGBTQ persons to seek out and conduct their own education around sexual health and safe sex practices.

Helpful Resources

If you identify as LGBTQ or have an LGBTQ youth in your life, the following resources can help meet sex education needs in order to maintain health and wellness:

• Look for healthcare providers who offer inclusive, comprehensive and accurate sex education and leading-edge, reliable care. The Human Rights Campaign produces a yearly Healthcare Equality Index, which evaluates healthcare facilities' policies and practices related to the equity and inclusion of LGBTQ patients, visitors and employees.
• Planned Parenthood offers a large array of inclusive educational information on sex and healthy sexual practices.

Chicago Healthy Adolescents & Teens (CHAT) offers information, local resources and more regarding sexual health, sexual orientation, gender identity, relationships and other crucial health topics.