Q&A | Creating Safe Spaces for LGBTQ+ Patients with Dr. Amezquita and Dr. Jethwa

Every person deserves compassionate, affirming healthcare, especially when it comes to intimate aspects of wellness like pelvic floor health. For LGBTQ+ individuals, finding providers who truly understand their unique needs can feel overwhelming. That's why we're proud to spotlight two of Origin's exceptional pelvic floor physical therapists who are creating genuinely safe, inclusive spaces for queer and trans patients.

Dr. Vanessa Amezquita, PT, DPT and Dr. Paaneri Jethwa, PT, DPT bring both clinical expertise and deep understanding to their practice. They recognize that quality care goes beyond technical skills and requires creating an environment where every patient feels seen, heard, and respected for who they are.

Whether you're navigating gender-affirming surgery recovery, exploring fertility options, addressing pelvic pain, or simply seeking preventive care, these providers understand that your journey is uniquely yours. Their approach centers on continuous consent, trauma-informed language, and patient empowerment, ensuring that you remain in control of your care every step of the way.

In this candid conversation, Dr. Amezquita and Dr. Jethwa share insights about their affirming approach to pelvic floor physical therapy, what LGBTQ+ patients can expect during their first visit, and how specialized care can support you through life's transitions. When it comes to your health and well-being, you deserve nothing less than comprehensive, compassionate care.

1. What steps do you take to create a safer space for queer and trans patients?

Dr. Jethwa: Quite honestly, I treat them as I would treat any other cisgender patient. I don't go with the mind set of them being any different. Obviously, I read their intake carefully and address them with the correct pronouns that they would prefer as would do for my other Cisgender patients.

Dr. Amezquita: I strive to make LGBTQ+ patients seen, heard and respected. I use trauma-informed language, continuous consent and promote patient empowerment. Also, pride flags are on display to signal it's a safe, welcome space (and that I'm proud to be a part of this amazing community!) 

2. What should I expect at my first PT appointment if I’m trans, nonbinary, or gender-nonconforming?

Dr. Amezquita: You can expect your pronouns to be respected, and gender-inclusive language throughout your session. Open-ended questions will be asked about where your function is now, what you want to achieve, and how I can be the bridge between the two. Strength, range of motion, function and pelvic exams are performed only to the extent that the patient gives consent to and is comfortable with. No part of the session continues without the patient's consent, understanding and knowing of alternative treatments.

Dr. Jethwa: For your first PT appointment expect to chat a lot and there would be enough time would be provided to express your concerns first, and then depending on that detailed patient education and guidance would be given. If you are comfortable an assessment could also be performed, including internal and external palpation and a strength assessment if the time permits. Later a tailor made plan of care would be created keeping your goals as number one priority and things to be included in the upcoming treatment sessions would be discussed.

3. Can I bring up things like gender dysphoria or past trauma during PT?

Dr. Amezquita: Of course! All information is appreciated, but never obligatory. Whatever is shared is always taken into consideration. We talk about ways to make you feel more safe, together. I also provide alternate options for you to share your story like an email, if that is more comfortable.

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4. Can pelvic floor PT help before or after gender-affirming surgeries?

Dr. Amezquita: Absolutely! Pelvic floor PT can help educate and prepare patients for what to expect after surgery. Pt helps in improving awareness of muscles of anatomy that may be involved in the surgery or post-operative care. Any pre-existing pain or dysfunction is also addressed to promote better surgical outcomes.

After surgery, scar restrictions or adhesions are addressed. Patients are given pain management strategies to be able to continue post-op protocols or dilator therapy. Any bladder, bowel or sexual dysfunction is screened for and treated. Regaining strength, flexibility and coordination is also at the center of care so patients can improve their function and help them reach their goals.

Dr. Jethwa: Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy is very helpful before and after gender affirming surgeries. It helps with the pre-op preparation to learn how to engage your pelvic floor correctly, how to use the dilators which are recommended to be used postpartum. Post-op, we also help with manual therapy and trigger point release and bladder retraining post catheter use.

Learn more in our recent blog post about gender-affirming surgery recovery.

5. As a queer person, am I able to talk about my sex life or anatomy without fear of being judged or misunderstood?

Dr. Amezquita: Yes! I understand every individual experiences a unique sex life, and the spectrum of anatomy. Sexual orientation, gender identity, sexual practices and partners are never assumed. I listen and learn about your individual experiences and needs.

6. How can pelvic floor PT help with care during my fertility journey?

Dr. Amezquita: We can discuss what your ideal journey looks like, while considering hormone therapy, surgical history and fertility considerations. All partners are welcome to be part of the journey, too!

7. What advice do you have for queer folks who are hesitant to get pelvic PT?

Dr. Amezquita: Pelvic PT can seem intimidating... the pelvic exams, wondering how much you'll have to share, will you spill "TMI", the physical treatments... the truth about what goes down in a PT session is completely up to you! (Seriously!) You are in charge of the process.

In pelvic floor physical therapy, you can AND ARE ENCOURAGED TO...

• Ask for what you need
• Ask for accommodations
• Ask as many questions about the process as you'd like
• Bring in a list of questions or concerns you may have
• Only disclose any much as information as you want to
• Decline any part of the process, at any time (including internal exams). There is always an alternative treatment.

Your PT journey is not made for you, but with you. You deserve compassionate and affirming care—you’re taking an important step for your health and well-being. You don’t have to do it alone.