Intersection of Sexual, Reproductive, and Liver Health in a Diverse Population

Description

Sexual, reproductive, and cultural factors profoundly impact liver health, yet these dimensions are often overlooked in hepatology care. This program explores the intersection of sexual, reproductive, and liver health in a diverse population, including people with chronic liver disease, HIV, and those who identify as LGBTQ+. Presenters provide insight and suggestions to offer culturally sensitive hepatology care with the goal of empowering clinicians to deliver inclusive, patient-centered care, improving outcomes and equity in liver health across diverse populations. Presentation topics include: (1) oral contraceptive use and pregnancy counseling, including infertility treatment and in vitro fertilization in patients with chronic liver disease and post liver transplantation; (2) common reproductive and liver issues for LGBTQ+ patients, including the hepatologic effects of gender affirming hormone therapy, use of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis in people with chronic liver diseases, and transplant access; (3) the increasing prevalence of MASLD in people living with HIV (PWH)—which also disproportionally affects the LGBTQ+ and other marginalized populations—exploring unique risk factors, pathophysiology, and management strategies; and (4) culturally sensitive approaches for liver health counseling and practical guidance for specialists and community practitioners to address obstacles faced by LGBTQ+, PWH, and other marginalized populations, especially under current climates.