Sexual and gender minority (SGM) patients often face complex reproductive and sexual health needs that are best addressed through a collaborative, affirming approach. In this interprofessional case-based session, Dr. Sarah Pickle, Dr. Shanna Stryker, and Dr. Sarah Whitton will walk through real-world clinical scenarios to highlight the importance of integrated, trauma-informed care across medical and mental health disciplines. Attendees will gain practical insights into inclusive language, shared decision-making, and coordinated care models that support the sexual and reproductive well-being of intersex and transgender individuals.
Sarah Pickle, MD, is a board-certified family medicine physician and a leading advocate for inclusive, affirming primary care. She serves as Vice Chair of Clinical Affairs and an Associate Professor in the Department of Family and Community Medicine at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. Dr. Pickle specializes in providing comprehensive care for sexual and gender minority (SGM) patients, with a focus on transgender health, reproductive care, and health equity. She is recognized nationally for her leadership in medical education and her commitment to expanding access to gender-affirming care across clinical settings.
Shanna Stryker, MD, MPH, is a primary care physician specializing in gender-affirming care, immigrant and refugee health, and inclusive, wellness-centered medicine. Fluent in English and conversational in Spanish, she welcomes all patients and is committed to providing respectful, body-autonomous care—regardless of language or background. Dr. Stryker integrates principles of public health and social justice into her practice and is passionate about improving access for communities facing systemic barriers. Based in Cincinnati, she enjoys reading epic fantasy novels, international travel, and hiking in her time outside the clinic.
Sarah W. Whitton, PhD, is a clinical psychologist and researcher whose work focuses on strengthening relationships and promoting well-being among modern couples and families, particularly those from understudied and marginalized communities. A professor of psychology at the University of Cincinnati, Dr. Whitton studies the factors that support healthy, resilient partnerships in the face of stigma and adversity—especially among sexual and gender minorities—and develops evidence-based, couple-centered interventions to improve individual and family health.