Uterine and ovarian changes during testosterone administration in young female-to-male transsexuals

Caring for the LGBTQIA+ Patient: A Best-Practices Primer on Language, Sexual Function Considerations, and Health Disparities in Gynecologic Care

Despite representing a growing percentage of the global population, queer patients (i.e., lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and/or asexual; LGBTQIA+) continue to experience significant disparities in gynecologic healthcare. Common barriers to inclusive care include discriminatory healthcare experiences, difficulty finding identity-affirming providers, and systemic lack of competency in addressing queer-specific medical needs. Such barriers arise out of heteronormative assumptions, limited provider training, and insufficient understanding of diverse sexual and gender identities. This narrative review examines gynecologic care considerations for lesbian, gay, bisexual/pansexual, asexual, intersex, and transgender patients. We review research documenting how queer patients delay or avoid healthcare due to fear of judgment, discrimination, and inadequate provider understanding. Our review highlights unique healthcare needs across different queer identities, including inclusive and culturally-sensitive sexual health screening that includes (but is not centered solely on) queer-specific sexual practices; considerations for transgender patients undergoing gender-affirming care; and incorporating intersectionality into assessment, treatment planning, and delivery. Finally, we make direct recommendations for caring for queer patients, including developing inclusive intake processes; training healthcare teams in affirming, non-discriminatory practices; using gender-neutral language; recognizing the diversity of sexual and gender identities; and addressing minority stress and its impacts on health.

Fertility in transgender and gender diverse people: systematic review of the effects of gender-affirming hormones on reproductive organs and fertility

BACKGROUND

Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people seek gender-affirming care at any age to manage gender identities or expressions that differ from their birth gender. Gender-affirming hormone treatment (GAHT) and gender-affirming surgery may alter reproductive function and/or anatomy, limiting future reproductive options to varying degrees, if individuals desire to either give birth or become a biological parent.

OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE

TGD people increasingly pursue help for their reproductive questions, including fertility, fertility preservation, active desire for children, and future options. Their specific needs certainly require more insight into the effects of GAHT on gonads, gametes, and fertility. This systematic review aims to provide an overview of the current knowledge on the impact of GAHT on gonads, gametes, fertility, fertility preservation techniques, and outcomes.

SEARCH METHODS

This review was registered in the PROSPERO registry under number CRD42024516133. A literature search (in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science) was performed with a medical information specialist until 15 November 2024.

OUTCOMES

In all TGD people using GAHT, histological changes have been reported.Using testosterone GAHT, ovarian cortical and stromal changes were reported by various studies. In most studies, persistent activity in folliculogenesis can be concluded based on the descriptions of the follicle count, distribution, and oocyte retrieval yield. However, there may be a negative effect on the fertilization rate in the presence of testosterone. Reports of successful ovarian stimulation, fertilization, pregnancies, and live births have been published, describing cases with and without testosterone discontinuation.After using oestrogen GAHT, testes are reported to be more atrophic, including smaller seminiferous tubules with heavy hyalinization and fibrosis. Spermatogenic levels varied widely from complete spermatogenesis to meiotic arrest with spermatids, to spermatogonial arrest, Sertoli cells only, or even tubular shadows. Oestrogen and anti-androgen treatment causes higher proportions of sperm abnormalities (i.e. low total sperm count, low sperm concentration, poor sperm motility) or azoospermia. However, after cessation, this may be restored.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS

Although knowledge of the effect of GAHT is growing, blind spots remain to be uncovered. Therefore, additional research in this specific population is needed, preferably comparing outcomes before and after the start of GAHT. This may help to reveal the pure impact of GAHT on reproductive functioning. Research suggestions also include investigations into the reversibility of the GAHT effect, especially for those who start transition at a young age. Looking carefully at the presented data on GAHT effects on gonads and gametes, the correct advice is to assess and reassess reproductive wishes and preferences repeatedly, and also to explore individual fertility preservation needs during gender-affirming treatment, given the expanding knowledge and therapy opportunities. Finally, concerns regarding long-term health outcomes and quality of life of children born by the use of gametes preserved after exposure to GAHT require prospective follow-up studies.

[Transmasculine people: Gender affirming hormonal therapy, sexual and reproductive health prevention and care, a medical review and follow-up suggestions]

Transmasculine individuals have a poor access to health care, mostly regarding the sexual and reproductive health. Despite a lack of official guidelines, they need a gynecological follow-up, the aim of this review was to describe it. The present study involved an exhaustive search of MEDLINE, 68 articles were included to analyze the impact of hormonal therapy, prevention, and care regarding sexual and reproductive health of transmasculine individuals. Despite a lack of solid data, the global literature agrees that transmasculine individuals require sexual and reproductive health care. Care must be adapted to each pathway and may be impacted by gender-affirming care. The cancer risk does not seem to be increased in this population, particularly in relation to hormonal therapy. Prevention programs do not differ from those offered to cis women in the absence of gender-affirming surgeries. Transmasculine individuals require follow-up and care adapted to their needs and their pathways. Healthcare professionals must be trained to provide such care.

Endometrial cancer and endometrial changes in transgender men: Insights from Japanese individuals on testosterone

AIM

Endometrial changes in Japanese transgender men (TGM) on testosterone use remain elucidated. This study aims to present TGM with endometrial cancer and insights from a literature review of similar cases. Furthermore, we investigated the correlation between endometrial cancer and severe obesity in TGM who underwent gender-affirming surgery.

METHODS

Between July 2020 and April 2023, two groups were assessed: 2 TGM with endometrial cancer and 43 TGM without cancer who underwent gender-affirming surgery. A literature review for TGM with endometrial cancer was conducted. Clinical data were retrospectively collected, and histopathological evaluation of female genital organs was performed.

RESULTS

Two TGM with endometrial cancer and an additional four similar cases were identified through a literature search. These TGM had severe obesity (body mass index [BMI] ≥30 kg/m2) and long-term testosterone use, indicating a possible link between endometrial cancer and these factors. Subsequently, we investigated the 43 TGM without cancer. We revealed 30% with obesity (BMI ≥25), only three cases of severe obesity (BMI ≥30), and a significant correlation between testosterone use duration and BMI in TGM without cancer. Histological examination revealed focal proliferative endometrium in 51% of cases and polycystic ovarian changes in 77%.

CONCLUSIONS

Our observations suggest a potential link between severe obesity, prolonged testosterone use, and endometrial cancer in transgender men. Histological changes in the female genital tract highlighted frequent focal proliferative endometrium, even under testosterone therapy. Further research should focus on larger, multi-institutional studies to confirm these findings and establish endometrial cancer screening for Japanese TGM.

Reproductive Considerations in the Transgender and Gender Diverse Population: A Review

Many transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals will be considering gender-affirming treatments during their reproductive lifespan. These medically necessary treatments have a negative impact on reproductive potential. All TGD individuals should be counseled regarding fertility. Options for fertility preservation for individuals who have undergone puberty include mature oocyte, embryo, and sperm cryopreservation. In prepubertal individuals, ovarian tissue cryopreservation may be considered, but testicular tissue cryopreservation remains experimental only. While there have been advances in the technology and standardization of reproductive health care for this population, many gaps remain in our knowledge which require further research.

The implications of hormone treatment for cancer risk, screening and treatment in transgender individuals

There is evidence that gender-affirming hormone treatment (GAHT) for transgender individuals modulates their risk for specific malignancies including breast and prostate cancer, and meningiomas. However, there is insufficient data to make precise risk estimates accounting for age and inherited cancer risk. As such, screening recommendations remain broad. Even less evidence exists for best practice in the management of active or historical cancers in the transgender population. Guidance is therefore mainly extrapolated from cisgender populations but with considerations of the significant benefits of GAHT in the face of any hormonal risk. Clinical experience, the multidisciplinary team and shared decision making with the patient are vital in providing person-centred care, while further research is acquired.

'I never see anyone like myself represented in discussions about endometriosis': priorities of LGBTQIA + endometriosis patients in New Zealand

Limited information is available regarding the experiences and perspectives of LGBTQIA + patients internationally, and no literature exists for New Zealand. Twenty-eight LGBTQIA + endometriosis patients took part in asynchronous, online text-based discussions about their experiences navigating endometriosis diagnosis and management in Aotearoa New Zealand. Their qualitative responses were coded in an iterative thematic manner. The mean delay to diagnosis of this cohort was 10.2 ± 5.6 years from symptom onset, longer than previously reported delays in Aotearoa New Zealand. Participants shared a strong discomfort with the predominant focus of endometriosis management strategies on penetrative sex and pregnancy, and the sense they were dismissed if prioritising these functions was not their priority. Several potential improvements to current treatment and care for LGBTQIA + endometriosis patients were generally agreed upon by the cohort, including research to better understand a practice approach for managing the symptoms of transmasculine patients; expanding the management strategies for patients who are not prioritising fertility and penetrative sex; improving awareness of LGBTQIA + people and experiences amongst medical practitioners to reduce homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, misgendering and mistreatment in care; and the development of gender-neutral spaces for the support of patients who feel uncomfortable in cisgender women-centric endometriosis spaces.

Uterine changes in transgender men receiving testosterone therapy

OBJECTIVES

Despite regular gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT), the presence of uterine bleeding can occur occasionally and cause profound discomfort. This study aimed to evaluate the histologic features and immunohistochemical expression of estrogen (ER), progesterone (PR), and androgen receptors (AR) in the endometrium and myometrium of transgender men receiving testosterone therapy and relate them to clinical and hormonal characteristics.

DESIGN

Retrospective cross-sectional study.

METHODS

Thirty-four transgender men undergoing gender-affirming surgery were included. Clinical, sociodemographic, and laboratory data as well as anatomopathological and immunohistochemical findings were evaluated.

RESULTS

The participants' mean age was 42.35 (SD, 10.00) years, and body mass index was 28.16 (SD, 5.52) kg/m2. The mean GAHT duration before surgery was 5.36 (SD, 3.24) years. The mean testosterone levels were 814.98 (SD, 407.13) ng/dL, and estradiol levels were 55.22 (SD, 25.27) pg/mL. The endometrium was atrophic in 61.8%, proliferative in 17.6%, and secretory in 20.6%. Immunohistochemical receptor analysis revealed that endometrial epithelial cells expressed ER (90%) and PR (80%), with a lower expression of AR (30%). In stromal tissue, the median ER, PR, and AR expression was lower than that in the epithelium (60%, 70%, and 25%, respectively). The myometrium showed high expression of PR (90%) and ER (70%), with the highest expression of AR (65%) being localized to this region.

CONCLUSIONS

In the present study, GAHT induced an atrophic condition of the endometrium in two-thirds of the transgender men, with a limited AR expression in the endometrial region. The present results suggest that testosterone-based GAHT for a mean of 5 years is safe in transgender men achieving amenorrhea.

Uterine and Ovarian Histopathology After Testosterone for Gender Affirmation: A Systematic Review

Purpose

The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the effects of testosterone on uterine and ovarian pathology in transmasculine patients at the time of gender-affirming surgery.

Methods

Searches were conducted using MEDLINE, CINAHL with Full Text, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Europe PMC for articles published before April 5, 2021, containing concepts of testosterone use, uterine histopathology, and transgender population. The initial search yielded a total of 658 abstracts. Studies were analyzed in full text if they reported one or more uterine or ovarian histopathological findings in a noncisgender population receiving testosterone for gender affirmation. Rayyan software was used for the abstract review.

Results

This review was registered with PROSPERO. Twenty-eight full-text articles were reviewed, of which 17 met the inclusion criteria. Two reviewers performed data extraction and risk of bias assessment. Thirteen studies included endometrial histopathology results, representing 522 patients. Endometrial findings demonstrated that 254 patients (48.7%) were atrophic, 243 (46.6%) were proliferative, and 16 (3.0%) were secretory. Twelve patients (2.3%) had endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia (EIN), including one (0.2%) with focal adenocarcinoma. Eleven studies reported ovarian histopathology in 410 patients and 765 ovaries. A total of 143 (34.9%) patients had polycystic-appearing ovaries. Three (0.7%) patients had benign ovarian neoplasms. No ovarian malignancies were reported.

Conclusion

The endometrium was predominately found to be atrophic or proliferative, with low rates of EIN and carcinoma. No ovarian malignancy was observed. Based on this review, patients on testosterone do not have an increased risk of precancerous endometrial lesions due to unopposed hormones in the setting of amenorrhea.

Persistent vaginal bleeding during gender-affirming hormone therapy in transgender men

PURPOSE

While it is common for menstrual cycles to cease within the initial 6 months of treatment, there are instances where some transgender men may not experience this cessation. We analyzed transgender men undergoing gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) with testosterone who experienced breakthrough bleeding in order to identify the factors associated with this condition.

METHODS

In this case-control study, 24 transgender men in the case group and 48 in the control group were assessed for clinical, sociodemographic, hormonal, and body composition variables using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. All participants had been on GATH for at least 6 months.

RESULTS

A few transgender men experienced persistent breakthrough bleeding, which was associated with decreased testosterone levels and free androgen index (FAI) compared with controls (p = 0.002 and p = 0.008, respectively). Among individuals with breakthrough bleeding, 50% had testosterone levels below the lowest tertile calculated for the sample, compared with 18.8% on controls (p = 0.007). After therapy adjustment, testosterone levels increased compared with the values obtained in the initial bleeding episode (p = 0.031). Eight transgender men required the addition of an oral progestogen to achieve amenorrhea, and these individuals had higher BMI than those in whom the adjustment of the parenteral testosterone dose was adequate (p = 0.026). A univariate prevalence ratio analysis revealed a negative association of persistent bleeding with testosterone levels (p = 0.028) and FAI levels (p = 0.019).

CONCLUSION

Higher BMI and lower levels of testosterone and FAI were the main factors associated with breakthrough bleeding in transgender men.

Incidence of breakthrough bleeding in transgender and gender-diverse individuals on long-term testosterone

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the maintenance of amenorrhea among transgender and gender-diverse individuals with uteri who are using long-term testosterone gender-affirming hormone therapy. Emerging data describe breakthrough bleeding among adolescents on long-term testosterone therapy and among adults who are seeking a gender-affirming hysterectomy. More studies are needed to better understand breakthrough bleeding patterns among transgender and gender-diverse individuals with uteri who are using testosterone, including the frequency, timing, and etiology of bleeding and how these patterns may differ between adults and younger populations.

OBJECTIVE

The primary aim of this study was to characterize the incidence and patterns of breakthrough bleeding in a cohort of transgender and gender-diverse individuals who had been on testosterone for longer than 12 months and who had uteri in situ. Secondary aims included identifying the time to first bleed for those who experienced breakthrough bleeding and the risk factors associated with breakthrough bleeding while on testosterone therapy.

STUDY DESIGN

This was an institutional review board-approved, single tertiary center, retrospective chart review of transgender and gender diverse individuals who had been on testosterone for at least 1 year. A primary survival analysis that evaluated the incidence of bleeding was combined with descriptive analyses and an evaluation of the factors associated with bleeding.

RESULTS

Of the 279 patients included in the analysis, the median age of testosterone initiation was 22 years (interquartile range, 19-41), and the median follow-up time was 34 months (range, 12-278). The absolute proportion of individuals who ever experienced breakthrough bleeding on testosterone was 34% (n=96; 95% confidence interval, 29-40). Patients who experienced breakthrough bleeding initiated testosterone at a younger age (20.5 vs 22.0 years; P=.04), had lower mean serum testosterone levels (389.14 vs 512.7 ng/dL; P=.001), were more likely to have a mean testosterone level <320 ng/dL (52% vs 48%; P=.001), and had higher mean estradiol levels (62% vs 49%; P=.003). Survival analyses estimated a breakthrough bleeding incidence rate of 0.09 per year (95% confidence interval, 0.07-1.0). Although 58 people underwent a hysterectomy during the follow-up period, 64% of the cohort who maintained a uterus eventually experienced breakthrough bleeding. The median time to the initial bleeding episode was 22 months (interquartile range, 12-201) after testosterone initiation.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that a substantial fraction of transgender and gender-diverse individuals who are using testosterone will experience at least 1 episode of breakthrough bleeding even after their initial year of testosterone use. We recommend that clinicians inform all patients that breakthrough bleeding is a common occurrence even after the first year on testosterone therapy.

One-third of amenorrheic transmasculine people on testosterone ovulate

Transmasculine people usually reach amenorrhea within 6 months of adequate testosterone treatment. It is often assumed that no ovulation occurs during amenorrhea. However, in this study, we report recent ovulatory activity in amenorrheic transmasculine people on testosterone therapy at gender-affirming oophorectomy. Histological signs of recent ovulatory activity, including the presence of ovulatory follicles, corpus luteum, and corpus albicans, are observed in 17 of 52 individuals (33%). This is not significantly correlated to the duration, testosterone serum levels, or type of testosterone used. These results suggest that amenorrhea does not equal anovulation in transmasculine people on adequate testosterone therapy, emphasizing the importance of contraception for people who engage in sexual activity that can result in pregnancy.

Gynecologic Care of Transgender and Gender-Diverse People

The visibility and care of transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) people is an important component of gynecology. Transmasculine individuals require routine gynecologic and preventative care. Guidelines can be extrapolated from the cisgender female population, and using affirming language, acknowledging the challenges patients face with pelvic examination, and discussing individual gynecologic needs are important components of care. Transmasculine patients may seek hysterectomy for gender affirmation from gynecologists. Unique nuances exist in the considerations needed when preparing for hysterectomy, and patients should be thoroughly counseled with regard to concurrent vaginectomy or oophorectomy or both. Transfeminine patients often seek gynecologic care after gender-affirming surgery, and, unlike transmasculine patients, the gynecology visit is often very affirming and welcomed by patients. Becoming familiar with the perioperative and delayed postoperative care needs of transfeminine patients undergoing vaginoplasty can help improve the care provided by gynecologists. In general, prospective data on the outcomes of gender-affirming care in large cohorts of TGD patients are limited, but the body of literature is growing. Gynecologists remain central to the care of TGD patients, the academic advancement of the field of transgender health, and the advocacy needed to support this vulnerable patient population.

Reproductive capacity after gender-affirming testosterone therapy

Transgender and nonbinary people with female birth sex may utilize testosterone therapy for masculinization. Individuals interested in reproduction using their own gametes should be offered fertility preservation prior to starting testosterone. However, logistical and practical barriers prevent many from accessing fertility preservation options prior to starting testosterone. Some of these transmasculine and nonbinary individuals may later become interested in carrying a pregnancy or using their oocytes for reproduction after being on testosterone. Many questions remain about the reproductive impact of long-term masculinizing testosterone therapy. Emerging literature has documented pregnancies and successful assisted reproduction for some people after taking testosterone, but it is not known whether individuals can expect these successful outcomes. Testosterone appears to impact the reproductive tract, including the ovaries, uterus, and fallopian tubes, but the reversibility and functional impact of these changes also remain unclear. A greater understanding of the impact of masculinizing testosterone on reproductive capacity remains a priority area for future research.

Preservation of Fertility in Transgender Men on Long-Term Testosterone Therapy: A Systematic Review of Oocyte Retrieval Outcomes During and After Exogenous Androgen Exposure

Testosterone therapy prompts the development of male secondary sexual characteristics coupled with numerous physiological changes; however, the effect of prolonged androgen exposure on transgender men's fertility remains to be fully elucidated. Multiple clinical consensuses advise assisted reproduction before hormone treatment and state that fertility preservation following androgen therapy entails the suspension of testosterone administration. Although the desire for reproduction among transgender men is prevalent, the discontinuation of gender-affirming hormone therapy poses a major challenge due to the anxiety, unease, and gender dysphoria that follow androgen withdrawal. The present investigation aimed to explore the feasibility and outcomes of oocyte retrieval in adult transgender men undergoing testosterone administration before or during fertility preservation. Seven case reports, four cohort studies, and two cross-sectional studies were identified following a systematic literature search on the PubMed/Ovid MEDLINE, Scopus, and ScienceDirect databases. The findings gathered in this review disclose the viability of oocyte retrieval after prolonged androgen exposure and suggest the absence of a direct relationship between the duration of testosterone suspension and fertility preservation outcomes. Although the reports are limited, recent evidence shows that continuous testosterone administration and the use of aromatase inhibitors during ovarian stimulation could potentially reduce the distressing effects of hormonal ovulation induction. New approaches to fertility preservation in transgender men must be further explored to ensure interventions aligned both with the reproductive desire and avoidance of gender dysphoria exacerbation that follow hormone therapy suspension.

Impaired in vitro fertilization outcomes following testosterone treatment improve with washout in a mouse model of gender-affirming hormone treatment

BACKGROUND

The impact of gender-affirming testosterone on fertility is poorly understood, with ovarian histopathologic studies showing variable results, some with a detrimental effect on reproductive capacity and uncertain reversibility. Assisted reproductive outcome data are restricted to small case series that lack the ability to inform clinical practice guidelines and limit fertility preservation counseling for transgender and nonbinary individuals.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the impact of current testosterone and testosterone washout on in vitro fertilization outcomes in a mouse model for gender-affirming hormone treatment. We hypothesized that current or previous testosterone treatment would not affect in vitro fertilization outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN

C57BL/6N female mice (n=120) were assigned to 4 treatment groups: (1) current control, (2) current testosterone, (3) control washout, and (4) testosterone washout. Testosterone implants remained in situ for 6 or 12 weeks, representing the short- and long-term treatment arms, respectively. Current treatment groups underwent ovarian stimulation with implants in place, and washout treatment groups were explanted and had ovarian stimulation after 2 weeks. Oocytes were collected, fertilized, and cultured in vitro, with one arm continuing to the blastocyst stage and the other having transfer of cleavage-stage embryos. Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism, version 9.0 and R statistical software, version 4.1.2, with statistical significance defined by P<.05.

RESULTS

Current long-term testosterone treatment impaired in vitro fertilization outcomes, with fewer mature oocytes retrieved (13.7±5.1 [standard deviation] vs 28.6±7.8 [standard deviation]; P<.0001) leading to fewer cleavage-stage embryos (12.1±5.1 vs 26.5±8.2; P<.0001) and blastocysts (10.0±3.2 vs 25.0±6.5; P<.0001). There was recovery of in vitro fertilization outcomes following washout in the short-term treatment cohort, with incomplete reversibility in the long-term cohort. Testosterone did not negatively affect maturity, fertilization, or blastulation rates.

CONCLUSION

In a mouse model of gender-affirming hormone treatment, testosterone negatively affected oocyte yield without affecting oocyte quality. Our findings suggest that testosterone reversibility is duration-dependent. These results demonstrate the feasibility of in vitro fertilization without testosterone discontinuation while supporting a washout period for optimization of mature oocyte yield.

Safety of gender affirming treatment in assigned female at birth transgender people and association of androgen and estrogen β receptor polymorphisms with clinical outcomes

PURPOSE

Gender affirming hormone treatment (GAHT) with androgens in assigned female at birth (AFAB) people with Gender Incongruence (GI) can induce and maintain variable phenotypical changes, but individual response may be genetically determined. To clarify the role of AR and ERβ polymorphisms we prospectively evaluated AFAB subjects undergoing virilizing GAHT.

METHODS

Fifty-two AFAB people with confirmed GI were evaluated before (T0) and after 6 (T6) and 12 months (T12) of testosterone enanthate 250 mg i.m. every 28 days. Hormone profile (testosterone, estradiol), biochemical (blood count, glyco-metabolic profile) and clinical parameters (Ferriman-Gallwey score, pelvic organs) were evaluated at each time-point, as well as number of CAG and CA repeats for AR and ERβ, respectively.

RESULTS

All subjects have successfully achieved testosterone levels within normal male ranges and improved their degree of virilization, in absence of significant side effects. Hemoglobin, hematocrit and red blood cells were significantly increased after treatment, but within normal ranges. Ultrasound monitoring of pelvic organs showed their significant reduction already after 6 months of GATH, in absence of remarkable abnormalities. Furthermore, a lower number of CAG repeats was associated with a higher Ferriman-Gallwey score post treatment and a higher number of CA repeats was associated with uterine volume reduction.

CONCLUSION

We confirmed safety and efficacy of testosterone treatment on all measured parameters. This preliminary data hints a future role of genetic polymorphisms to tailor GAHT in GI people, but evaluation on a larger cohort is necessary as the reduced sample size could limit data generalization at this stage.

"Lights and Shades" of Fertility Preservation in Transgender Men Patients: A Clinical and Pathological Review

Fertility preservation (FP) is becoming a critical issue in transgender men who desire biological offspring in the future. The prevalence of transgender individuals in the United States is increasing, and as a result, the demand for gender-affirming surgeries (GAS) and associated FP techniques is rising. Despite the growing demand, there is currently no personalized approach to FP for transgender men, and the available techniques have limitations that require further investigation. In the present review we carefully examine the existing literature on this topic to highlight the shortcomings of current methods and areas where additional research is needed to advance the field. Hormonal therapy (HT), which is an integral part of gender transition in transgender men, can have a significant impact on fertility and may increase the risk of various diseases. Moreover, GAS usually leads to permanent sterility in these patients. Therefore, it is essential to provide patients with accurate information about the benefits and potential risks of different FP techniques, taking into account the patient's reproductive goals. This review underscores the complex and multifaceted nature of FP in transgender men and emphasizes the need for further research to develop more effective and personalized approaches to FP for this population.

Androgen signalling in the ovaries and endometrium

Currently, our understanding of hormonal regulation within the female reproductive system is largely based on our knowledge of estrogen and progesterone signalling. However, while the important functions of androgens in male physiology are well known, it is also recognized that androgens play critical roles in the female reproductive system. Further, androgen signalling is altered in a variety of gynaecological conditions, including endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome, indicative of regulatory roles in endometrial and ovarian function. Co-regulatory mechanisms exist between different androgens, estrogens, and progesterone, resulting in a complex network of steroid hormone interactions. Evidence from animal knockout studies, in vitro experiments, and human data indicate that androgen receptor expression is cell-specific and menstrual cycle stage-dependent, with important regulatory roles in the menstrual cycle, endometrial biology, and follicular development in the ovaries. This review will discuss the expression and co-regulatory interactions of androgen receptors, highlighting the complexity of the androgen signalling pathway in the endometrium and ovaries, and the synthesis of androgens from additional alternative pathways previously disregarded as male-specific. Moreover, it will illustrate the challenges faced when studying androgens in female biology, and the need for a more in-depth, integrative view of androgen metabolism and signalling in the female reproductive system.

Endometrioid Endometrial Carcinoma With NKX3.1 Expression in a Transgender Man: A Case Report

Endometrial cancer in transgender men is rare, and its histopathologic features remain unknown. A 30-yr-old transgender man with an intrauterine tumor, an ovarian mass, and a 2-yr history of testosterone use was referred to us for treatment. The presence of the tumors was confirmed via imaging, and the intrauterine tumor was identified as an endometrial endometrioid carcinoma via endometrial biopsy. The patient underwent hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, omentectomy, and lymph node dissection. Pathologic examination revealed grade 3 endometrioid endometrial carcinoma, and the synchronous endometrial and ovarian tumors were collectively characterized as primary endometrial carcinoma. Metastatic carcinomas were discovered in both ovaries and the omentum, pelvic peritoneum, and a para-aortic lymph node. On immunohistochemistry, the tumor cells diffusely expressed p53, retained expression of PTEN, ARID1A, PMS2, and MSH6, and focally expressed estrogen receptors, androgen receptors, and NKX3.1. NKX3.1 was also expressed in glandular structures within the exocervical squamous epithelium. Prostate-specific antigen and prostatic acid phosphatase were focally positive. In conclusion, we describe a transgender man with NKX3.1-expressing endometrioid endometrial carcinoma who provides valuable suggestions regarding the effects of testosterone on endometrial cancer and appropriate gynecological care for transgender men.

Management of testosterone around ovarian stimulation in transmasculine patients: challenging common practices to meet patient needs-2 case reports

Approximately 50% of transmasculine people use testosterone for gender affirmation, yet very little is known about the effects of testosterone on future reproductive capacity. Moreover, there are no data to guide fertility specialists on how to manage testosterone leading up to or during ovarian stimulation. Most clinics require cessation of testosterone prior to ovarian stimulation in this setting of no data; however, the current literature does suggest a potential increase in dysphoria with cessation of testosterone and during stimulation. This divergence begs the question of whether clinicians may be doing more harm than good by enacting this requirement. Here, we present two cases of transmasculine individuals who were on testosterone prior to stimulation and maintained their testosterone dosage throughout stimulation as proof of concept, followed by a discussion of current clinical practice and providing some rationale to support continuation of testosterone throughout stimulation.

Endometrial thickness assessed by transvaginal ultrasound in transmasculine people taking testosterone compared with cisgender women

RESEARCH QUESTION

What is the endometrial thickness of endometrium exposed to testosterone in transmasculine people compared with unexposed endometrium in cisgender women as determined by transvaginal ultrasound (TVU)?

DESIGN

Single centre, cross-sectional cohort study conducted the Centre of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria in Amsterdam. Between 2013 and 2015, transmasculine people scheduled for gender affirming surgery (GAS) were included in this study after they provided informed consent. They were undergoing gender affirming hormone therapy (testosterone) for at least 1 year. Endometrial thickness (mm) was measured by TVU in transmasculine people, immediately before their GAS while under general anaesthesia. Cisgender control women from the general population underwent the exact same TVU measurements in an outpatient clinical setting on cycle days 2-5.

RESULT

Fifty-one transmasculine people and 77 controls were included. The mean duration of testosterone use was 30.2 months (SD 8.8). Endometrial thickness was significantly lower in transmasculine people compared with cisgender women: median 3.9 mm (interquartile range [IQR] 2.8-5.1) and 4.9 mm (IQR 4.0-6.3), respectively (P < 0.001), after correcting for confounding factor (current gonadotrophin releasing hormone agonist use).

CONCLUSIONS

Endometrial thickness in transmasculine people exposed to testosterone is significantly lower compared with cisgender women without testosterone exposure. These results suggest an absence of endometrial proliferation by exogenous testosterone.

Health Outcomes Associated With Having an Oophorectomy Versus Retaining One's Ovaries for Transmasculine and Gender Diverse Individuals Treated With Testosterone Therapy: A Systematic Review

INTRODUCTION

The transmasculine and gender diverse (TMGD) spectrum includes transgender men and non-binary individuals whose sex was assigned female at birth. Many TMGD patients pursue treatment with exogenous testosterone to acquire masculine characteristics. Some may choose to undergo gynecological gender-affirming surgery for total hysterectomy with bilateral salpingectomy and/or bilateral oophorectomy (TH/BSO). The decision to retain or remove the ovaries in the setting of chronic testosterone therapy has implications on reproductive health, oncologic risk, endocrine management, cardiovascular health, bone density and neurocognitive status. However, there is limited evidence on the long-term outcomes from this intervention.

OBJECTIVE

Here we review health-related outcomes of oophorectomy in TMGD population treated with chronic testosterone therapy in order to guide clinicians and patients in the decision to retain or remove their ovaries.

METHOD

We conducted a systematic literature review following PRISMA guidelines. MEDLINE, EMBASE, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for peer-reviewed studies published prior to October 26, 2021 that: (i) included transgender men/TMGD individuals in the study populations; (ii) were full-text randomized controlled studies, case reports, case series, retrospective cohort studies, prospective cohort studies, qualitative studies, and cross-sectional studies; and (iii) specifically discussed ovaries, hysterectomy, oophorectomy, ovariectomy, or gonadectomy.

RESULTS

We identified 469 studies, of which 39 met our inclusion criteria for this review. Three studies discussed fertility outcomes, 11 assessed histopathological changes to the ovaries, 6 discussed ovarian oncological outcomes, 8 addressed endocrine considerations, 3 discussed cardiovascular health outcomes, and 8 discussed bone density. No studies were found that examined surgical outcomes or neurocognitive changes.

CONCLUSION

There is little information to guide TMGD individuals who are considering TH/BSO versus TH/BS with ovarian retention. Our review suggests that there is limited evidence to suggest that fertility preservation is successful after TH/BS with ovarian retention. Current evidence does not support regular reduction in testosterone dosing following oophorectomy. Estradiol levels are likely higher in individuals that choose ovarian retention, but this has not been clearly demonstrated. Although bone mineral density decreases following oophorectomy, data demonstrating an increased fracture risk are lacking. No studies have described the specific impact on neurocognitive function, or changes in operative complications. Further research evaluating long-term health outcomes of oophorectomy for TMGD individuals treated with chronic testosterone therapy is warranted to provide comprehensive, evidence-based healthcare to this patient population. Sahil Kumar, Smita Mukherjee, Cormac O'Dwyer, et al. Health Outcomes Associated With Having an Oophorectomy Versus Retaining One's Ovaries for Transmasculine and Gender Diverse Individuals Treated With Testosterone Therapy: A Systematic Review. Sex Med Rev 2022;10:636-647.

Cystic Teratoma Resection With Ovarian Preservation in a Pediatric Transgender Male: A Case Report

Ovarian teratomas are germ cell-derived tumors that are classically reported in the literature to occur in cisgender female patients. While this is statistically the most common patient population that they are diagnosed in, they can also occur in transgender men with ovaries who have not undergone a previous oophorectomy. Because of the lack of research and literature regarding this unique patient population, decisions regarding the treatment of these neoplasms are controversial. Here, we report the case of a pediatric transgender male who developed an ovarian teratoma and discuss specific considerations for treating ovarian neoplasms in the transgender population.

Similar fertilization rates and preimplantation embryo development among testosterone-treated transgender men and cisgender women

RESEARCH QUESTION

What are the effects of testosterone treatment on oocyte fertilization and preimplantation embryo development among transgender men who have undergone fertility preservation?

DESIGN

A retrospective study was undertaken in a university-affiliated tertiary hospital between April 2016 and November 2021. Embryos were divided into three groups by source: 210 embryos from 7 testosterone-exposed transgender men, 135 from 10 cisgender women who cryopreserved embryos, and 276 from 24 cisgender women who underwent fertility treatment. Statistical analyses compared assisted reproductive technology outcomes between the group of transgender men and both groups of cisgender women. Morphokinetic and morphological parameters were compared between the embryos derived from these three groups.

RESULTS

The transgender men (30.2 ± 3.5 years of age) were significantly younger than the cisgender women who cryopreserved embryos (35.1 ± 1.8 years; P = 0.005) and the cisgender women who underwent fertility treatment (33.8 ± 3.2 years; P = 0.017). After adjusting for participant age, the fertilization rate was comparable between the transgender men and both groups of cisgender women (P = 0.391 and 0.659). There were no significant differences between the transgender men and the cisgender women who preserved fertility in terms of number of cryopreserved embryos (7.2 ± 5.1 and 3.5 ± 2.6; P = 0.473) or the distribution of embryo age at cryopreservation (P = 0.576). All morphokinetic parameters evaluated by time-lapse imaging, as well as the morphological characteristics, were comparable for the embryos in all three groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Testosterone exposure among transgender men has no adverse impact upon fertilization rates or preimplantation embryo development and quality.

Assessing Fertility Intentions in Patients Presenting for Gender-Affirming Surgery

Purpose: For some transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) individuals, gender-affirming surgery may represent the last opportunity to engage in gamete banking (GB) and other forms of fertility preservation (FP). Previous research has assessed fertility intentions among TGD people initiating hormone therapy. The objective of this study was to describe the fertility intentions of patients seeking gender-affirming surgery. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted for 233 patients seeking chest or genital surgery between 2017 and 2019. Data abstracted included interest in having children (biological or non-biological) and GB, and barriers to FP. Associations between fertility intentions, sex assigned at birth, and surgical procedure sought were assessed. Results: Of the 233 records reviewed, 162 (70%) documented information about fertility intentions for patients without a history of sterilizing surgery. At initial consultation, 94% were receiving hormone therapy. Among the 60 patients seeking genital surgery, 30% expressed interest in GB and 38% were not interested in biological children. Among the 102 patients seeking chest surgery, 11% expressed interest in GB and 47% were not interested in biological children. Patients assigned male at birth were more likely to have already completed GB (p < 0.001). Among the patients interested in FP, 41% reported barriers to access. Conclusion: Many TGD people in our study expressed no interest in biological parenthood; however, 30% of patients seeking genital surgery expressed interest in GB. This suggests that some who defer FP when starting hormones may wish to pursue it later in life. Ongoing assessment of fertility intentions and reducing barriers to FP are integral to caring for TGD people.

Reproductive Organ Pathology of Individuals Undergoing Gender-Affirming Surgery

As gender-affirming surgeries become more routine, it is increasingly important for pathologists to recognize the expected histologic changes seen in various tissues secondary to gender-affirming hormone therapy. For example, exogenous testosterone-related squamous atrophy or transitional cell metaplasia of the cervix may be confused for high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion. In addition to distinguishing between benign and dysplastic/malignant features, pathologists should be mindful of the phrasing of their reports and aim to use objective, nongendered language.

Histologic Findings in Surgical Pathology Specimens From Individuals Taking Masculinizing Hormone Therapy for the Purpose of Gender Transition

CONTEXT.—

Transgender men and transmasculine persons experience a discordance between the female sex they were assigned at birth and their gender. They may choose to take hormone therapy and/or undergo surgery to masculinize the body. Understanding the common (and less common) histologic changes present in patients taking masculinizing hormones will empower pathologists to better serve this unique patient population.

OBJECTIVE.—

To summarize histologic findings in surgical pathology specimens from persons taking masculinizing hormones as a part of gender transition.

DATA SOURCES.—

A systematic review of the OVID Medline and PubMed databases was performed to identify all studies describing histologic findings in surgical pathology specimens from transgender men from January 1946 to January 2021.

CONCLUSIONS.—

Publication in this area has markedly increased in the last 2 decades. However, most of the studies identified were descriptive and case reports describing changes seen in specimens removed as a part of masculinizing surgical procedures. Benign histologic findings include stromal hyalinization and epithelial atrophy in the breast, polycystic ovarian syndrome-like changes in the ovary, and transitional cell metaplasia in the cervix. The most commonly reported neoplastic finding was adenocarcinoma of the breast, with rare cases of ovarian, endometrial, cervical, vaginal, pituitary, pancreatic, and cardiovascular neoplasia also reported. Ongoing research in this area is needed to better characterize the histologic findings in persons taking masculinizing hormones to provide a deeper understanding of the effect of these treatments on different tissues and facilitate better patient management.

Comparison between slow freezing and vitrification of ovarian tissue cryopreservation in assigned female at birth transgender people receiving testosterone therapy: data on histological and viability parameters

PURPOSE

The use of fertility preservation (FP) techniques has significantly increased in recent years in the assigned female at birth (AFAB) transgender population. Oocyte cryopreservation is the established method for FP, but ovarian tissue cryopreservation may be considered an alternative option, especially during gender-affirming surgery (GAS). The slow freezing (SF) cryopreservation technique is the standard method for human ovarian tissue, but recently, several studies have shown good results with the vitrification (VT) technique. The objective of this study was to compare the effectiveness of VT and SF techniques in ovarian tissue from AFAB transgender people.

METHODS

This was a prospective study including 18 AFAB transgender people after GAS. Ovarian tissue pieces from each ovary were cryopreserved by SF and VT and compared with fresh tissue. Study by light microscopy (LM) assessed follicular morphology and density. The percentage of surviving and degenerated follicles was studied with the tissue viability test. Oocytes, granulosa cells and stroma were analysed separately by transmission electron microscopy.

RESULTS

The VT technique preserves follicle and stromal tissue as well as the SF method, but with some differences. Evaluation by LM showed better follicle preservation with VT, but the ultrastructural study showed the presence of minor damage with both techniques compared to fresh tissue.

CONCLUSION

Both cryopreservation techniques are accurate for maintaining the follicular population and stromal tissue. Further studies are needed to determine the impact of VT on ovarian tissue and the subsequent follicular activation mechanisms in AFAB ovarian tissue.

Transgender Medicine and Hormone Therapy: What the Gynecologist Needs to Know

The transgender community comprises individuals with diverse identities in both gender and sexual orientation. Unfortunately, many face discrimination and harassment within our society-including within the medical system. There is an overall lack of provider training in transgender specific health which has led to health disparities and inequities within this population. This chapter aims to elucidate the medical needs unique to transgender and gender nonconforming individuals and thus enable medical providers to meet those needs with competency and compassion.

Effect of the spatial-temporal specific theca cell Cyp17 overexpression on the reproductive phenotype of the novel TC17 mouse

Background

In the ovarian follicle, the Theca Cells (TCs) have two main functions: preserving morphological integrity and, importantly, secreting steroid androgen hormones. TCs express the essential enzyme 17α-hydroxylase/17,20-desmolase (CYP17), which permits the conversion of pregnenolone and progesterone into androgens. Dysregulation of CYP17 enzyme activity due to an intrinsic ovarian defect is hypothesized to be a cause of hyperandrogenism in women. Androgen excess is observed in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) resulting from excess endogenous androgen production, and in transgender males undergoing exogenous testosterone therapy after female sex assignment at birth. However, the molecular and morphological effects of Cyp17 overexpression and androgen excess on folliculogenesis is unknown.

Methods

In this work, seeking a comprehensive profiling of the local outcomes of the androgen excess in the ovary, we generated a transgenic mouse model (TC17) with doxycycline (Dox)-induced Cyp17 overexpression in a local and temporal manner. TC17 mice were obtained by a combination of the Tet-dependent expression system and the Cre/LoxP gene control system.

Results

Ovaries of Dox-treated TC17 mice overexpressed Cyp17 specifically in TCs, inducing high testosterone levels. Surprisingly, TC17 ovarian morphology resembled the human ovarian features of testosterone-treated transgender men (partially impaired folliculogenesis, hypertrophic or luteinized stromal cells, atretic follicles, and collapsed clusters). We additionally assessed TC17 fertility denoting a perturbation of the normal reproductive functions (e.g., low pregnancy rate and numbers of pups per litter). Finally, RNAseq analysis permitted us to identify dysregulated genes (Lhcgr, Fshr, Runx1) and pathways (Extra Cellular Matrix and Steroid Synthesis).

Conclusions

Our novel mouse model is a versatile tool to provide innovative insights into study the effects of Cyp17 overexpression and hyperandrogenism in the ovary.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12967-021-03103-x.

Beyond the Binary: Sexual and Reproductive Health Considerations for Transgender and Gender Expansive Adolescents

Awareness and visibility of transgender individuals have grown exponentially. However, conceptualizing sexual and reproductive health (SRH) as “women's” or “men's” health services further marginalizes transgender and gender-expansive (TGE) youth. Multiple reviews and commentaries have been published on the topic of SRH care for adults under the umbrella term of sexual and gender minorities, all with a call to action for more inclusive care and the need for more clinical research involving TGE individuals, and notably, TGE youth. Results from adult TGE studies are often translated to describe adolescent models. However, models specific to adolescent TGE populations are needed to understand their unique SRH needs. This review will describe the current literature relating to SRH needs of TGE youth and adults, highlighting key areas with significant disparities in need of further research. This comprehensive summary will also provide recommendations for clinicians and researchers with the goal of improving SRH care and obtaining wider representation in both clinical settings and research directed toward TGE youth.

Fecundity in transgender men

ABSTRACT

Premenopausal transgender men who retain internal female reproductive organs, who use exogenous testosterone, and who are sexually active with cisgender men are often capable of conception. This article discusses the potential for fecundity in transgender men, as well as appropriate reproductive care depending on whether the patient prefers to avoid conception or to become pregnant.

Histologic Findings in Gynecologic Tissue From Transmasculine Individuals Undergoing Gender-Affirming Surgery

CONTEXT.—

Gender-affirming surgery is part of a multidisciplinary approach in gender transitioning. Deeper histologic examination may strengthen care for transmasculine individuals and increase the understanding of the influence of hormonal therapy in specific organs.

OBJECTIVE.—

To evaluate and catalogue histologic findings of tissue obtained from gender-affirming gynecologic surgery and cervical cytology specimens.

DESIGN.—

This is an institutional review board-approved retrospective study that included transmasculine individuals who underwent gender-affirming gynecologic surgery from January 2015 to June 2020. All surgical gynecologic pathology and cervical cytology slides were reviewed by 2 pathologists.

RESULTS.—

Fifty-five patients were included, which represented 40 uteri, 35 bilateral ovaries, 15 vaginectomy specimens, and 24 cervical cytology results. The median age was 27 years (range, 18-56) and 94% (50 of 53) of patients were receiving testosterone for at least 1 year. Seventy-five percent (30 of 40) of endometria were inactive, while 25% (10 of 40) showed evidence of cycling. Transitional cell metaplasia was the most common finding in the cervix (17 of 40) and vagina (15 of 15), reflecting a high percentage (4 of 24) of unsatisfactory or ASC-US (atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance) cervical cytologies. Prostatic-type glands were identified in 20% (8 of 40) of cervices and 67% (10 of 15) of vaginectomy specimens. Multiple bilateral cystic follicles and evidence of follicular maturation were present in 57% (20 of 35) of cases. Four cases showed paratubal epididymis-like mesonephric remnant hypertrophy.

CONCLUSIONS.—

A comprehensive evaluation of tissue from gender-affirming surgery increases knowledge of the changes following androgen therapy in transmasculine individuals and may contribute to optimal patient care by raising awareness of normal histologic variations in this population.

Reproductive potential and fertility preservation in transgender and nonbinary individuals

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To synthesize recent literature to better understand parenting desires and challenges of transgender individuals as well as the impact of gender-affirming care on reproductive potential.

RECENT FINDINGS

Survey studies of transgender and nonbinary individuals demonstrate significant parenting interest, yet uptake in fertility preservation services remains low with potential for decisional regret. Masculinizing hormones have demonstrated variable effects on folliculogenesis and follicle distribution in the human ovary. In the mouse model, testosterone administration has demonstrated an increase in atretic late antral follicles without a reduction in primordial or total antral follicle counts and a preserved ability to respond to gonadotropin stimulation. Case series of transgender individuals undergoing oocyte or embryo cryopreservation are promising with outcomes similar to cisgender controls. Feminizing hormones have shown detrimental effects on sperm parameters at time of cryopreservation and spermatogenesis in orchiectomy samples with uncertainty regarding the reversibility of these changes.

SUMMARY

Current evidence demonstrates variable effects of gender-affirming hormones on ovarian and testicular function with potential for detrimental impact on an individual's reproductive potential. As many individuals initiate gender-affirming care prior to or during their reproductive years it is imperative that they receive thorough fertility preservation counseling and improved access to reproductive care services.

Clinical Characteristics and Histologic Features of Hysterectomy Specimens From Transmasculine Individuals

OBJECTIVE

To describe the clinical characteristics of transmasculine individuals who underwent hysterectomy and characterize surgical pathology findings.

METHODS

Under an institutional review board-approved protocol, transmasculine individuals who were undergoing hysterectomy and bilateral salpingectomy or bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy were retrospectively identified from a single institution. Past medical, surgical, obstetric, and gynecologic history were collected, including prior testosterone use, cervical cancer screening status, and preoperative pelvic imaging. Surgical pathologic findings of the endometrium, ovaries, and cervix were collected.

RESULTS

A total of 72 individuals were included. The median age was 30 years (range 19-51). The majority of patients had private insurance (n=53, 74%) and were on testosterone at time of the preoperative visit (n=63, 88%). Forty-two patients (58%) reported anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder, and 34 patients (47%) were taking an antidepressant or mood stabilizer. Of the 68 patients eligible for cervical cancer screening, 33 (49%) were up to date before their surgical consultation visits. Pelvic pain was the leading indication for surgery (n=65, 90%), and 29 patients (40%) had multiple listed indications for surgery. Surgical pathology results included cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2-3 in three patients (4%), endometrial or cervical atrophy in 13 patients (18%), and ovarian or paratubal cysts in 16 patients (22%).

CONCLUSION

This study describes the distinct clinical characteristics and surgical pathology findings that health care professionals should consider when caring for this unique patient population, including a relatively high rate of mental health conditions, pelvic pain as the leading indication for surgery, and the presence of endometrial or cervical atrophy and ovarian or paratubal cysts on surgical pathology.

Endometrial findings among transgender and gender nonbinary people using testosterone at the time of gender-affirming hysterectomy

OBJECTIVE

To describe clinical characteristics and associated endometrial findings of transgender and gender nonbinary people using gender-affirming testosterone.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

SETTING

Academic medical center and public safety net hospital.

PATIENT(S)

Eighty-one patients using gender-affirming testosterone therapy undergoing hysterectomy for the indication of gender affirmation from 2000 to 2018.

INTERVENTION(S)

None.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Preoperative clinical characteristics and endometrium surgical pathology diagnoses.

RESULT(S)

Median age was 31 years (interquartile range [IQR] 27-40), and median body mass index 27 kg/m² (IQR 24-30). Six patients (7%) were parous and 60 (74%) had amenorrhea. Thirty-three patients (40%) had proliferative and 40 (50%) atrophic endometrium. Endometrial polyps were found in nine patients (11%) of the sample. Endometrial findings were similar in the subgroup of 60 patients with preoperative amenorrhea. There were no cases of endometrial hyperplasia or malignancy. In bivariate analysis, those with proliferative endometrium were found to be, on average, 5.6 years younger than those with atrophic endometrium. There were no clinical factors associated with having proliferative versus atrophic endometrium in multivariable models.

CONCLUSION(S)

People using gender-affirming testosterone may have either proliferative or atrophic endometrium, including people who present with amenorrhea. Further study is needed to develop evidence-based guidelines for appropriate screening for endometrial hyperplasia or cancer in this population.

Contraception across transgender

Sexual and reproductive issues are essential elements of well-being in cisgenders as well as for the transgender population. Gender-affirming hormonal treatments (GAHTs) aim to induce phenotypical changes congruent with the desired gender and subsequent reduction of gender dysphoria. While genital surgical procedures including hysterectomy and/or adenectomy cause permanent loss of ability to conceive, GAHT may induce a varying degree of reversible loss of fertility. For these reasons, transgender men and women need to be counseled concerning contraceptive options and potential effects of treatment on reproductive function before initiating GAHT. The literature reports that sexual activity with genital involvement is performed by less than half of transgender persons who have been sexually active with a partner in the past. Testosterone (T) is the most commonly used compound in transmen and usually leads to amenorrhea within 1-12 months from first administration, however cessation of menses does not mean anovulation. Some studies report cases of unintended pregnancies among transgender men under masculinizing therapy, therefore T treatment cannot be considered a contraceptive option. Currently available contraceptive options have pros and cons in transmen and scarce literature exists on their use. The effects of GAHT on fertility in transwomen are even less well known. Prolonged estrogen exposure induces sperm suppression and morphological changes of the spermatozoa, however the degree of resulting pregnancy protection is unclear. Further research to inform the contraceptive counseling in this population is mandatory.

A serous borderline ovarian tumour in a transgender male adolescent

Here we present a transgender male adolescent with an androgen receptor-positive serous borderline ovarian tumour in the setting of testosterone treatment for medical gender transition. To our knowledge, this is the second report of borderline tumour in a transgender individual and the first in an adolescent, an age group in which borderline tumours are extremely rare. We discuss the specific considerations of treating ovarian tumours in the transgender male population, the incompletely understood role of androgens in the genesis of ovarian epithelial neoplasia, and an emphasis on assessing cancer risk in transgender patients based on patient anatomy.

Fertility Options for the Transgender and Gender Nonbinary Patient

Comprehensive care for transgender and gender nonbinary patients has been a priority established by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health. Because pubertal suppression, gender-affirming hormone therapy, and antiandrogen therapy used alone or in combination during medical transition can affect gonadal function, understanding the effects these treatments have on fertility potential is important for practitioners caring for transgender and gender nonbinary patients. In this review, we outline the impacts of gender-affirming treatments on fertility potential and discuss the counseling and the treatment approach for fertility preservation and/or family building in transgender and gender nonbinary individuals.

Clinical needs for transgender men in the gynecologic oncology setting

Transgender men remain at risk for gynecologic malignancies, but are an underserved population. Members of the transgender community experience discrimination and have experiences that contribute to health disparities, including in gynecology and oncology. While efforts have been made within the United States to reduce inequalities experienced by members of this community, many needs in the clinical setting remain. Increased education and training among providers and healthcare professionals, and general improvements towards understanding barriers to health screening and health resource uptake may reduce some disparities. Additional research towards screening and cancer surveillance among this community will be necessary to understand any potential additional risks and survival disparities experienced by transgender men. This review focuses on barriers and clinical needs for transgender men in the gynecologic oncology setting, and suggestions for moving forward to improve care for this patient population.

A mouse model to investigate the impact of testosterone therapy on reproduction in transgender men

STUDY QUESTION

Can mice serve as a translational model to investigate the reproductive effects of testosterone (T) therapy commonly used by transgender men?

SUMMARY ANSWER

T enanthate subcutaneous injections at 0.45 mg twice weekly can be used in the postpubertal C57BL/6N female mouse to investigate the reproductive effects of T therapy given to transgender men.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Most models of T treatment in female mice involve prenatal or prepubertal administration, which are not applicable to transgender men who often begin T therapy after puberty. Studies that have looked at the impact of postpubertal T treatment in female mice have generally not investigated reproductive outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

A total of 20 C57BL/6N female mice were used for this study. Study groups (n = 5 mice per group) included sesame oil vehicle controls and three doses of T enanthate (0.225, 0.45 and 0.90 mg). Mice were injected subcutaneously twice weekly for 6 weeks.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

Daily vaginal cytology was performed prior to initiation of treatment to confirm that all mice were cycling. At 8-9 weeks of age, therapy with subcutaneous T enanthate (0.225, 0.45 or 0.90 mg) or the vehicle control was begun. T therapy continued for 6 weeks, at which point mice were sacrificed and compared to control mice sacrificed during diestrus/metestrus. Data collected included daily vaginal cytology, weekly and terminal reproductive hormone levels, terminal body/organ weights/measurements, ovarian follicular distribution/morphology and corpora lutea counts.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

Of the mice treated with 0.90 mg T enanthate, two of five mice experienced vaginal prolapse, so this group was excluded from further analysis. T enanthate administration twice weekly at 0.225 or 0.45 mg resulted in cessation of cyclicity and persistent diestrus. One of five mice at the 0.225-mg dose resumed cycling after 2.5 weeks of T therapy. As compared to controls, T-treated mice had sustained elevated T levels and luteinizing hormone (LH) suppression in the terminal blood sample. T-treated mice demonstrated increases in clitoral area and atretic cyst-like late antral follicles (0.45 mg only) as compared to controls. No reduction in primordial, primary, secondary or total antral follicle counts was detected in T-treated mice as compared to controls, and T-treated mice demonstrated an absence of corpora lutea.

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

Mouse models can provide us with relevant key findings for further exploration but may not perfectly mirror human reproductive physiology.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

To our knowledge, this report describes the first mouse model mimicking T therapy given to transgender men that facilitates analysis of reproductive changes. This model allows for future studies comparing duration and reversibility of T-induced changes, on the reproductive and other systems. It supports a role for T therapy in suppressing the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in adult female mice as evidenced by LH suppression, persistent diestrus and absence of corpora lutea. The increase in atretic cyst-like late antral follicles aligns with the increased prevalence of polycystic ovary morphology seen in case series of transgender men treated with T therapy. The results also suggest that T therapy does not deplete the ovarian reserve.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)

This work was supported by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine/Society of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Grant and NIH R01-HD098233 to M.B.M. and University of Michigan Office of Research funding (U058227). H.M.K. was supported by the Career Training in Reproductive Biology and Medical Scientist Training Program T32 NIH Training Grants (T32-HD079342, T32-GM07863) as well as the Cellular and Molecular Biology Program. The University of Virginia Center for Research in Reproduction Ligand Assay and Analysis Core is supported by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver NICHD/NIH (NCTRI) Grant P50-HD28934. E.E.M. consults for Allergan. No other authors have competing interests.

Fertility preservation options for transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To provide an overview of the current state of knowledge of fertility risks of gender-affirming therapy, review fertility preservation options for transgender individuals and ways to minimize gender dysphoria during fertility treatment, and identify gaps in knowledge.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies have corroborated older data that gender-affirming hormone therapy creates histopathological changes in the gonads; however, the newer data suggests that some function of the gametes may be preserved. One study in transgender men reported successful in-vitro maturation of testosterone-exposed oocytes with normal spindle structures, and recent studies in transgender women reveal early spermatogenesis in estradiol-exposed testes and some recovery of semen parameters following cessation of hormones. Particular attention has recently been given to fertility preservation in transgender adolescents, revealing unmet informational needs in this population and very few are actually pursuing fertility preservation, even with counseling.

SUMMARY

There is currently a paucity of data on the fertility effects of gender-affirming hormones, necessitating fertility preservation counseling prior to initiation of therapy. Several modifications can be made to fertility preservation protocols and procedures to decrease gender dysphoria or distress in transgender individuals, but outcome data is still lacking. Achieving high-quality data collection will likely require cooperation across multiple institutions.

Ovarian Histopathology in Transmasculine Persons on Testosterone: A Multicenter Case Series

BACKGROUND

As transmasculine persons utilize androgen gender affirming hormone therapy as a part of transition, guidance has been lacking on the effects of the therapy on the ovaries, especially for those who may desire retention.

AIM

To describe the ovarian histopathology of transmasculine persons on testosterone therapy following oophorectomy at the time of hysterectomy performed for gender affirmation.

METHODS

This was a multicenter case series study of transmasculine patients on testosterone therapy who underwent hysterectomy with oophorectomy for gender affirmation between January 2015 and December 2017 at 5 tertiary care referral centers. Patients were identified by their current procedural and International Classification of Diseases codes.

OUTCOMES

Pre-, perioperative, and pathologic data were obtained from the electronic medical records and ovarian tissue descriptions from pathology reports were grouped into the following classifications: (i) simple/follicular cysts; (ii) polycystic ovaries; (iii) complex cysts; (iv) endometriomas; (v) other masses; (vi) atrophy; and (vii) normal.

RESULTS

85 patients were included in the study. At the time of oophorectomy, the mean age and body mass index of the cohort were 30.4 ± 8.4 years and 30.2 ± 7.3 kg/m2, respectively, and the average interval from the initiation of testosterone to oophorectomy was 36 0.3 ± 37.9 months. On examination of ovarian histopathology, 49.4% (42) of specimens were found to have follicular/simple cysts, 5.9% (5) were polycystic, and 38.8% (33) had normal pathology. For those specimens with volume documented (n = 41), the median volume was 9.6 (range 1.5-82.5) cm3. There was no association between the duration of testosterone therapy or body mass index and the presence of cysts in the ovaries.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

The results of this study reported benign histopathology in ovaries of a large cohort of transmasculine persons on testosterone which should be included when counseling patients on ovarian retention, as transmasculine patients may choose to retain their ovaries while on testosterone for a variety of reasons (including no desire to undergo surgery, desire for backup sex steroids, and potential use for future fertility).

STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS

This is a large multicenter study seeking to address the uncertainty in present counseling surrounding ovarian conservation in transmasculine persons on testosterone therapy. Its limitations included its retrospective nature and inability to address ovarian function after testosterone discontinuance.

CONCLUSION

In this cohort of transmasculine patients on testosterone therapy undergoing hysterectomy with oophorectomy for gender affirmation, ovarian histopathology was benign in all the specimens. Grimstad FW, Fowler KG, New EP, et al. Ovarian Histopathology in Transmasculine Persons on Testosterone: A Multicenter Case Series. J Sex Med 2020;17:1807-1818.

Transgender Men and the Gynecologist

Recently, greater attention has been paid to the care of gender dysphoric and gender incongruent individuals. Gynecologists may be called upon to care for individuals who were assigned female at birth throughout or following social, medical, or surgical gender transition. Thus, gynecologists need to be aware of language regarding sex and gender, treatment typically used for the care of gender dysphoric or incongruent individuals, and aspects of well gynecologic care necessary for these individuals. This review highlights these aspects of care for transgender males to aid the general gynecologist in the care and treatment of these individuals.

Ovarian stimulation outcomes among transgender men compared with fertile cisgender women

PURPOSE

To compare assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes among transgender men with those of fertile cisgender women.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 12 transgender men, six with no testosterone exposure and six after testosterone treatment, and 12 cisgender women (oocyte donors) who underwent ART in our institution between June 2017 and December 2019. Statistical analyses compared ART data and outcomes between three groups: cisgender women, transgender men without testosterone exposure, and transgender men after testosterone exposure. Comparisons were also made between transgender men with and without testosterone exposure.

RESULTS

The transgender men with no testosterone exposure (23.3 ± 4 years) were significantly younger than the transgender men who had undergone testosterone treatment (30.3 ± 3.8 years; P = 0.012) and the cisgender women (29.1 ± 3.1 years; P = 0.004). The amount of FSH used for ovulation induction (1999 ± 683 mIU/mL) was significantly lower among transgender men without prior testosterone exposure compared with that among cisgender women (3150 ± 487 mIU/mL; P = 0.007). There were no differences in the peak estradiol levels, the number of oocytes retrieved, the number of MII oocytes, and the oocyte maturity rates between the three groups. Five out of six testosterone-treated transgender men underwent embryo cryopreservation, and they all achieved good-quality embryos.

CONCLUSIONS

Transgender men have an excellent response to ovulation stimulation even after long-term exposure to testosterone. Oocyte/embryo cryopreservation is, therefore, a feasible and effective way for them to preserve their fertility for future biological parenting.

Impact of Exogenous Testosterone on Reproduction in Transgender Men

Studies show that a subset of transgender men desire children; however, there is a paucity of literature on the effect of gender-affirming testosterone therapy on reproductive function. In this manuscript, we will review the process of gender-affirming hormone therapy for transgender men and what is known about ovarian and uterine consequences of testosterone exposure in transgender men; draw parallels with existing animal models of androgen exposure; summarize the existing literature on parenting experiences and desires in transgender people; discuss considerations for assisted reproductive technologies and fertility preservation; and identify gaps in the literature and opportunities for further research.