Sexual health and campus climate for LGBTQ+ college students

J Am Coll Health. 2026 Apr 28:1-9. doi: 10.1080/07448481.2026.2660178. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Objective: LGBTQ+ college students experience disproportionate barriers to sexual health support. Researchers investigated how campus information, healthcare resources, and institutional climate influence their sexual health. Participants: Twenty-three LGBTQ+ undergraduates (ages 18-24) at a Midwestern university, reflecting diversity in sexual orientation and gender identity. Methods: Individual interviews were conducted using a semi-structured guide based on the World Health Organization’s definition of sexual health. Data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis, informed by queer theory. Results: Students reported open conversations about sexual health, readily available resources, and LGBTQ+ visibility as factors that facilitate positive sexual health. However, sexual health was hindered by the lack of inclusive information, limited access to culturally competent healthcare providers, structural barriers, and experiences of performative allyship and microaggressions. Conclusions: Although universities offer meaningful support, they frequently fail to provide the comprehensive resources and welcoming campus culture that LGBTQ+ students need to achieve and maintain optimal sexual health.

PMID:42050368 | DOI:10.1080/07448481.2026.2660178