Building a Healthier, More Inclusive Future Together

June 1, 2026

This Pride Month and every day, Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest (PPPSW) affirms our commitment to the health and well-being of LGBTQ+ patients and all the communities we serve.

We know that LGBTQ+ communities, especially trans and non-binary individuals, face significant barriers to accessing health care. Across the country and around the world, trans and non-binary people are facing an alarming rise in discrimination, violence, and legislative attacks. Everything from bans on gender-affirming care to restrictions on preferred name and pronoun use in schools and workplaces, are efforts designed to erase and marginalize gender-expansive communities. These attacks are deeply personal, affecting people’s ability to live safely, access health care, and be respected for who they are.

We are so proud to be a trusted provider of LGBTQ+ affirming health services, offering care rooted in dignity, respect, and evidence‑based practice. Read on to learn more about our inclusive sexual and reproductive health services and how we are expanding access to care for LGBTQ+ communities.

Expanding Access to Gender‑Affirming Care Across Our Region:

Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest launched its Gender‑Affirming Hormone Therapy (GAHT) program in 2019 after seeing a need from our communities. What began with seven dedicated providers has now grown to twelve providers performing GAHT services across our three counties and via telehealth. In 2021, Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest had 821 hormone therapy visits. Just last year, in 2025, that number grew to 4,872 patients who received Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy at Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest. More information can also be found at planned.org/genderaffirmingcare.

HIV prevention services:

In 2025, Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest began increasing access to PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, and PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) — medications which significantly reduce the risk of contracting HIV, including through the addition of long-lasting injectable PrEP options. According to the CDC, patients who take PrEP as prescribed reduce their risk of getting HIV through sex by about 99%. More information can be found at planned.org/lgbtq+.

Care Coordination Program:

Through PPPSW’s Care Coordination Program, patients can access support for updating gender markers, referrals for surgery, laser hair removal, vocal coaching, fertility resources, LGBTQ+ resources, and more. Together, our comprehensive care teams provide wraparound care that meets patients where they are.

Telehealth:

We understand that coming into a health center may not always feel possible or comfortable for our patients. Which is why we are so proud to offer telehealth services for many types of care, allowing our patients to connect with a trusted provider from the privacy of their home. Our telehealth services, including gender-affirming care, can be an important option for people with transportation challenges, work or childcare responsibilities, or concerns about in‑person visits.

LGBTQ+ Inclusive Sex Education:

Over the last several years, attacks against LGBTQ+ people have also targeted schools and education, including attempts to curtail young people’s right to privacy, health services, and
Inclusive sex education. Planned Parenthood recognizes that all young people deserve high quality sex education that is inclusive of their needs and affirming of their experiences and identities. Last year alone, over 5,700 students across our tri-county region received comprehensive sex ed from trusted Planned Parenthood educators.

Explore opportunities to join the PPPSW team and help shape a future where everyone can access the care they deserve. Click here to learn more.