Disability + Access

Disabilities are very common - one in five people who live in Victoria has a disability.  

Women and people living with disabilities have the same right to access health services and health information as everyone. This includes sexual and reproductive health.

However, getting access to appropriate health care can be difficult for many people living with disabilities because of prejudice and discrimination.

Disabilities and sexual health 

Many women and people with disabilities enjoy intimate relationships and have active sex lives.  

The stigma and prejudice that persists around disability and sex, however, means many women and people living with disabilities have less access to sexual health information and services than non-disabled people.  

This can be due to many reasons including: 

• A false but commonly held view in society that women and people living with disabilities don't have sex 
• Some health professionals don't view people with disabilities as having sexual health needs 
• Parents, carers and support workers may not provide the support needed for the person to access sexual health information and services 
• Some health professionals may not allow people with disabilities to make decisions about their own sexual health care 
• Services and information are not always accessible to people with specific needs

Accessing sexual and reproductive health care 

If you have a disability, or are advocating on behalf of someone with a disability, 1800 My Options can help you find appropriate sexual and reproductive healthcare.  

Contact us on 1800 696 784 (Weekdays 9am – 5pm), or email info@1800myoptions.org.au

National Relay Service 
Callers who are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment can call through the National Relay Service - phone 1800 555 660 then ask for 1800 My Options (1800 696 784).