Reproductive care for LGBTQIA2S+
Woman’s Health Options (formerly The Edmonton Morgentaler Clinic) has been providing reproductive health services, primarily safe abortion, in Edmonton since 1991. In that time, the clinic has grown and adapted services to improve our care for LGBTQ+ patients. Currently our services include abortion care, birth control counselling and services, pap tests, and sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing. We are committed to providing a safe, and respectful space for all patients accessing care.
Can I receive services at WHOL if I do not identify as a woman?
Whatever their gender, we at Woman’s Health Options strive to provide a safe, respectful environment for people who are or may become pregnant to have access to reproductive health care, including abortion, contraception, STI testing and pap screenings.
We recognize that not everyone accessing these services identifies as a woman. The aim of WHOL is to provide services for trans, non-binary and intersex patients with a person-centered focus that respects their identity and autonomy. If there is anything we can do to support your care during your visit please let us know, for instance, informing us of your preferred name or pronouns.
Why use the word “woman” to refer to people capable of becoming pregnant?
Historically, abortion has been categorized as a cisgender women’s issue. The fight for safe abortion access has been a long and difficult struggle which continues to this day. Our clinic name and the language that we use reflect this struggle and is a reminder of how far we have come to be able to offer these services. While this language reflects many of our patients’ experiences and identities, we recognize that this is not the case for all our patients.
What if I struggle with clinical terms for body parts?
We understand that many names for body parts have deeply gendered associations, and some people may feel uncomfortable using them. For clarity, we use these names to ensure the highest level of care. However, we are conscious of our patients’ needs and will reflect their preferred terminology wherever possible.
