It is worrying to see such high figures regarding exposure to violence, says Kalle Röcklinger, investigator at the authority.
The new report on LGBT sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) is based on the SRHR 2024 survey, which was answered by nearly 16,000 people.
Of the respondents, just over 1,000 were homosexual, bisexual or transgender.
The report is intended to provide a snapshot of how the LGBT people who responded experience their SRHR, and it gives us an indication of the overall situation, says Röcklinger.
Sexual violence
Many reported experiences of sexual violence, both digital and physical. For example, half of bisexual women, a third of transgender people and one in five bisexual men reported that someone had done something sexual to them against their will.
It can involve kissing and touching or being forced to touch someone else, says Kalle Röcklinger.
Physical sexual harassment was even more common.
Many LGBT people, between 18 and 40 percent, had also experienced discrimination and offensive treatment in the past three months.
Treatment
The fact that the question is asked about the last three months indicates that it is quite common and that it is something that is very current.
This may include treatment in healthcare that is perceived as offensive, for example, staff repeatedly using the wrong pronouns, or people being met with assumptions that they do not need certain care.
Or, for example, that in a midwife's consultation, questions about contraception are not raised because it is assumed that you do not need it, even though you might need it, says Kalle Röcklinger.
The report also shows that many are satisfied with their health and sex life.
We should not just paint a dark picture of LGBT sexual health. The vast majority have good general health, and half are satisfied with their sex lives. They also report that their relationships are equal.
The Public Health Agency points to several areas that should be developed to ensure the sexual and reproductive health and rights of homosexuals, bisexuals and transgender people:
Strengthened efforts to prevent sexual violence and ensure access to support and care for everyone, regardless of gender, gender identity or sexual orientation.
Develop the response and LGBT competence at reproductive life events. Research shows that experiences of discrimination and heteronormative attitudes in healthcare can negatively affect LGBT people's trust in healthcare.
Prevention of, for example, sexually transmitted infections and violence and support efforts within SRHR must be adapted to meet the specific needs of LGBT people.
Source: Public Health Agency of Sweden
