Physicians don't ask, sometimes patients tell: disclosure of sexual orientation among women with breast carcinoma

Abstract

Background: The disclosure of sexual orientation to physicians is uncertain and the reasons are poorly understood. The current study was undertaken to describe the disclosure of sexual orientation among sexual minority women with breast carcinoma.

Methods: Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with a sample of 39 sexual minority women with a diagnosis of breast carcinoma who lived in New England. Transcribed interviews were analyzed using qualitative data analysis software. Through constant comparison methods, themes related to disclosure were identified from the narrative data.

Results: Sexual minority patient-provider relationships were marked by apprehension, and providers did not inquire about sexual orientation. The majority of women actively disclosed their sexual orientation, whereas 11 women passively refused disclosure.

Conclusions: Providers should create opportunities for the disclosure of sexual orientation to provide more comprehensive care.