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Turan Ş, Özulucan MT, Karataş U, Kavla Y, Koyuncu O, Durcan E, Durcan G, Bağhaki S. The effects of gender-affirming hormone therapy and mastectomy on psychopathology, body image, and quality of life in adults with gender dysphoria who were assigned female at birth. Qual Life Res 2024:10.1007/s11136-024-03664-6. [PMID: 38656406 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-024-03664-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Individuals with gender dysphoria (GD) may request hormone therapy and various surgical operations to change their physical characteristics. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of two treatments, mastectomy and gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT), on adults with GD who were assigned female at birth (GD AFAB). METHODS In this cross-sectional study, we gathered data from a total of 269 individuals in three groups: (a) untreated group (n = 121), (b) GAHT group (n = 84) who had been receiving treatment for at least 6 months, and (c) GAHT-MAST group (n = 64) who had been using GAHT for at least 6 months and had undergone mastectomy at least 3 months prior. All participants were asked to complete the Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R), the Body Uneasiness Test (BUT), and the World Health Organization's Quality of Life Questionnaire- Brief Form, Turkish Version (WHOQOL-BREF-Tr). RESULTS We found that individuals in the untreated group had higher psychopathological symptoms and body uneasiness scores, and lower quality of life scores compared to both GAHT and GAHT-MAST groups. There was no difference in psychopathology between the GAHT-MAST group and the GAHT group, but body uneasiness scores were lower, and quality of life scores were higher in the GAHT-MAST group. CONCLUSION Our study suggests that individuals receiving GAHT improved mental health, body satisfaction, and overall quality of life. Combining mastectomy with GAHT may further enhance these benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Şenol Turan
- Department of Psychiatry, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Türkiye.
| | - Mahmut Taha Özulucan
- Graduate School of Health Science, Neuroscience PhD Program, Koç University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Uğur Karataş
- Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Yasin Kavla
- Department of Psychiatry, Hınıs State Hospital, Erzurum, Türkiye
| | - Oğuzhan Koyuncu
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medeniyet University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Emre Durcan
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Gizem Durcan
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Semih Bağhaki
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Türkiye
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Jorgensen SCJ, Athéa N, Masson C. Puberty Suppression for Pediatric Gender Dysphoria and the Child's Right to an Open Future. Arch Sex Behav 2024:10.1007/s10508-024-02850-4. [PMID: 38565790 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-024-02850-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
In this essay, we consider the clinical and ethical implications of puberty blockers for pediatric gender dysphoria through the lens of "the child's right to an open future," which refers to rights that children do not have the capacity to exercise as minors, but that must be protected, so they can exercise them in the future as autonomous adults. We contrast the open future principle with the beliefs underpinning the gender affirming care model and discuss implications for consent. We evaluate claims that puberty blockers are reversible, discuss the scientific uncertainty about long-term benefits and harms, summarize international developments, and examine how suicide has been used to frame puberty suppression as a medically necessary, lifesaving treatment. In discussing these issues, we include relevant empirical evidence and raise questions for clinicians and researchers. We conclude that treatment pathways that delay decisions about medical transition until the child has had the chance to grow and mature into an autonomous adulthood would be most consistent with the open future principle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah C J Jorgensen
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5T 3M7, Canada.
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | | | - Céline Masson
- Département de Psychologie, Université de Picardie Jules-Verne, Amiens, France
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Sundaram V, Stark B, Jaswa E, Letourneau J, Mok-Lin E. Decision regret, and other mental health outcomes, following fertility preservation in the transgender individual compared to the cisgender woman. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:1077-1085. [PMID: 38332415 PMCID: PMC11052947 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-03013-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to (1) determine differences in depression, anxiety, body image, quality-of-life (QOL), and decision regret scale (DRS) scores in transgender individuals undergoing fertility preservation (FP) compared to those who decline and (2) determine if DRS score following FP varies between transgender individuals and cisgender women. METHODS Sixteen transgender birth-assigned (BA) females and 13 BA males, undergoing FP consultation at an academic center between January 2016 and November 2019, were compared to each other and cisgender cohorts with pre-existing data: 201 women undergoing elective oocyte cryopreservation (EOC) between 2012 and 2016 and 44 women with cancer undergoing FP between 1993 and 2007. Outcomes included demographics; validated scales for depression, anxiety, body image, QOL (see below) in the trans cohort; DRS score in all three cohorts. RESULTS Of 29 transgender individuals participating, 10 BA females (62%) and 12 BA males (92%) underwent FP. Beck Depression Inventory II, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Body Image Scale for Transsexuals, Satisfaction with Life Scale, Short Form Health Survey-36, and DRS scores were not significantly different between trans individuals who underwent FP and those who declined. On univariate modeling, regret was significantly lower in transpeople undergoing FP compared to those who did not (OR 0.118, p = 0.03). BA female and BA male transpatients undergoing FP reported DRS median scores 5 (mean 9) and 7.5 (mean 15), respectively, both were not significantly different from cisgender women (p = 0.97, p = 0.25) nor from each other (p = 0.43). CONCLUSIONS Depression, anxiety, body image, and QOL, in a group of individuals presenting for FP consultation, appear similar between transpeople undergoing FP and not, while regret is significantly lower in those choosing FP. FP is an option for transgender individuals without significant differences in regret compared to cisgender women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viji Sundaram
- Florida Institute for Reproductive Medicine, 836 Prudential Dr, Suite 902, Jacksonville, FL, 32207, USA.
| | - Brett Stark
- University of California, San Francisco, 499 Illinois St, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Eleni Jaswa
- University of California, San Francisco, 499 Illinois St, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | | | - Evelyn Mok-Lin
- University of California, San Francisco, 499 Illinois St, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
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Hobday SB, Mirza N. Psychiatric Diagnoses and Psychotropic Drug Usage in Gender-Affirming Voice Surgery Patients. J Voice 2024:S0892-1997(24)00054-7. [PMID: 38556380 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvoice.2024.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe the burden of psychiatric illness and psychotropic medication usage among the subset of transgender patients who undergo gender-affirming laryngeal surgery and describe some of the most commonly encountered conditions experienced by this population. METHODS An Institutional Review Board-approved chart review was conducted for the 18 patients who have undergone gender-affirming laryngeal procedures from August 2019 to June 2022 performed at a single institution. Patient demographic data, treatment details, and psychiatric diagnoses and prescriptions for psychotropic medications were recorded. RESULTS Of the 18 patients who underwent gender-affirming laryngeal surgery at this institution, 16 patients underwent these operations as part of a transition from male to female gender, while 2 patients were transitioning from female to male gender. In this cohort, 13 patients were diagnosed with a psychiatric comorbidity (72.2%). Of these patients, 11 were prescribed at least 1 psychotropic medication (61.1%). The most common psychiatric illnesses encountered in these patients were depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Ten patients were diagnosed with more than 1 psychiatric comorbidity (55.6%). The most commonly prescribed psychotropic drugs were selective serotonin/norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. Three patients in this cohort had a recorded history of at least one prior suicide attempt. CONCLUSIONS Multiple studies have demonstrated increased rates of mental illness in transgender individuals, however, this is the first study to describe the burden of these conditions specifically in the subset of patients who undergo gender-affirming laryngeal surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara B Hobday
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
| | - Natasha Mirza
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Lad SU, Sinopoli J, Khong B, Conroy B, Perzynski AT, Del Rincon JP. Clinical and sociodemographic characteristics as predictors for quality of life in transmasculine and transfeminine individuals receiving gender-affirming hormone therapy. Soc Sci Med 2024:116734. [PMID: 38490912 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Healthcare systems and providers have increasingly acknowledged the role and impact of social determinants in overall health. However, gender-diverse individuals face persistent health disparities due to their identities. There is limited research on the impact of clinical and sociodemographic characteristics on mood and quality of life (QoL) for transgender (TG) individuals. Our study aims to understand and better elucidate social and clinical characteristics of transmasculine (TM) and transfeminine (TF) individuals and their impact on quality of life and depressive symptoms. In this cross-sectional study, 298 TF and TM individuals on gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) were surveyed about their demographic characteristics (age, gender identity, body mass index (BMI), and education), social needs, mood, and quality of life. Multivariable regression modelling was performed to assess the effect of each variable listed above on three domains of QoL (psychological, environmental, and physical) as well as depressive symptoms. We find that QoL scores are similar between TM and TF individuals, with scores in the psychological domain particularly low in both cohorts. TM individuals report higher rates of stress and restroom avoidance than TF individuals. In particular, psychological well-being (measured by the psychological domain of QoL and depressive symptoms) is significantly associated with increased BMI, financial instability, and stress in TM individuals while for TF individuals, psychological well-being is associated with stress and social integration. These data suggest that social circumstances are key drivers of QoL and psychological well-being among gender-diverse individuals receiving GAHT with specific differences between TF and TM individuals. This information may be utilized by healthcare providers and policymakers to address and improve clinical care and social policies to improve health equity for gender-diverse individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saloni U Lad
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, 9501 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA.
| | - Jacob Sinopoli
- The Chester Summer Scholars Program, MetroHealth Medical System, 2500 MetroHealth Drive, Cleveland, OH, 44109, USA; Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Brian Khong
- Department of Medicine, MetroHealth System, 2500 MetroHealth Drive, Cleveland, OH, 44109, USA.
| | - Britt Conroy
- Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA; Department of Urology and Family Medicine & Community Health, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
| | - Adam T Perzynski
- Center for Healthcare Research and Policy, Case Western Reserve University at MetroHealth, 10900 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
| | - Juan P Del Rincon
- Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA; Department of Medicine, MetroHealth System, Cleveland, OH, USA; Endocrinology and Metabolism Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA.
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Makkonen M, Myllykangas HM, Kaarela O, Nuutinen H. Masculinizing chest-wall surgeries in transgender patients, a retrospective single-center study. ANN CHIR PLAST ESTH 2024; 69:131-135. [PMID: 37852821 DOI: 10.1016/j.anplas.2023.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Masculinizing chest-wall contouring surgery is an important surgical intervention for most transmasculine patients; a vast improvement in quality of life for this group of patients has been documented as a result of receiving surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of such surgeries performed at our university hospital between 2008 and 2020, as well as the current quality of life of the patients. METHODS All 16 patients operated between 2008 and 2020 were sent a questionnaire consisting of both BREAST-Q and BODY-Q modules, considered fitting for our study purposes, as well as the BECK Depression Index and a short two-question form with space for feedback. Patients were divided into groups called double incision (DI) and periareolar (PA) depending on the surgical technique used. RESULTS We found an overall complication percentage of 31.3%, with the DI group scoring 33.3% and PA 28.6%, while secondary aesthetic corrections were necessary for 50% of all patients. The questionnaires yielded 6 responses (37.5%). Participants rated on a scale of 1 to 10 their willingness to undergo the operation again if given the choice; the DI group averaged 10/10, and the PA group 9/10, despite the statistically significant complication and correction rates. CONCLUSIONS Masculinizing chest-wall contouring surgery has significant complication risks. In our study, frequency of complications did not appear to depend on the surgical technique used. Additionally, the complication rates found in our low volume centre seem to be comparable with those reported from bigger units.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Makkonen
- Department of Surgery, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.
| | - H M Myllykangas
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - O Kaarela
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - H Nuutinen
- Department of Surgery, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland; Department of Plastic Surgery, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
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Garcia Nuñez D, Frigerio G, Perler LD, Jäggi T, Schönbucher V, von Känel R. Quality of life and associated factors in Swiss trans people: a cross-sectional study. Front Psychiatry 2024; 14:1233625. [PMID: 38239908 PMCID: PMC10794747 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1233625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Experiences of stressful life events during transition may have a negative impact on quality of life (QoL) in trans persons. Little attention has been paid to this population in Switzerland, resulting in sparse data on their QoL and associated social factors. Methods 30 participants were recruited during their medical transition treatment and surveyed on their experiences within this time period (13 months after the first medical intervention on average). After performing a diagnostic interview to evaluate their mental health, health-related QoL, psychological distress, self-esteem and the impact of life events that occurred in the last six months on participants were further assessed. Results Approximately 17% of participants had suffered from major depression, 43% reported having had suicidal thoughts or having attempted suicide, and 43% suffered from an anxiety disorder. Psychological distress was twice as high compared to the norm values of the cis population. With regard to QoL, trans individuals showed impairments in the mental domain. Stressful life events were particularly evident on a psychological and social level. Analysis showed a negative correlation between impact of life events and mental QoL and between psychological distress and mental QoL. At the same time, there was a positive correlation between self-esteem and mental QoL. Psychological distress and self-esteem emerged as independent significant predictors of mental QoL. Conclusion This study shows lowered mental QoL and associations of low mental QoL with psychological distress, low self-esteem and stressful life events in trans individuals in Switzerland. The findings concur with the Gender Minority Stress Model and point out that medical transition must not be viewed in isolation but must be embedded in the framework of integrative psychosocial support.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Garcia Nuñez
- Center for Gender Variance, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Culmannstrasse, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Giulia Frigerio
- Department of General Surgery, University Hospital Geneva, Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Laura D. Perler
- Center for Gender Variance, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tiziana Jäggi
- Department of Psychology, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | | | - Roland von Känel
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Culmannstrasse, Zürich, Switzerland
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Pliensak N, Suwan A, Panyakhamlerd K, Bumphenkiatikul T, Wainipitapong S. Mental Health of Transmasculine Adults Receiving Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy in Thailand. Transgend Health 2023; 8:509-515. [PMID: 38213531 PMCID: PMC10777821 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2021.0160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Many studies have shown conflicting results regarding mental health among transmasculine adults or transgender men (TM). This study aimed to identify the prevalence of depression among Thai TM receiving gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT). Methods All TM, over 18 years of age, who received GAHT for at least three consecutive months were invited to complete a self-report questionnaire that covered participants' demographic and clinical data. Mental health, including depression, anxiety, and quality of life (QoL), was assessed. We reported the prevalence of mental illnesses and examined the correlations between mental health scores and other associated data. Results A total of 84 TM were included in the analysis. Major depression and generalized anxiety disorder were detected in 14.3% and 3.6%, respectively. Depression severity was negatively associated with age and QoL. Depression and anxiety severity were found to be positively associated. Conclusions Compared with the general Thai population, the prevalence of mental health problems among Thai TM receiving GAHT was higher. Age of maturity may be a potential mental health protective factor, and assessment in younger individuals may benefit mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Napon Pliensak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ammarin Suwan
- Division of Gender, Sexual, and Climacteric Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Transgender Health (CETH), Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Krasean Panyakhamlerd
- Division of Gender, Sexual, and Climacteric Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Transgender Health (CETH), Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Thanapob Bumphenkiatikul
- Center of Excellence in Transgender Health (CETH), Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Academic Affairs, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sorawit Wainipitapong
- Center of Excellence in Transgender Health (CETH), Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
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Keski-Rahkonen A. Eating disorders in transgender and gender diverse people: characteristics, assessment, and management. Curr Opin Psychiatry 2023; 36:412-418. [PMID: 37781981 DOI: 10.1097/yco.0000000000000902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review summarizes recent research on eating disorders among gender minorities, transgender and gender diverse people. The focus is on research published in 2022 and the first half of 2023. RECENT FINDINGS Up to 1.2% of young people and 0.3-0.5% of adults identify as transgender, and 2.7-8.4% of young people and 0.3-4.5% of adults report some degree of gender diversity. About 20-50% of transgender and gender diverse people report engaging in disordered eating and >30% screen positive for eating disorder symptoms, and 2-12% have received an eating disorder diagnosis from a health professional. Many transgender and gender diverse people describe eating disorder symptoms as a way of coping with gender dysphoria. They also report high levels of mental and behavioral symptoms, particularly mood and anxiety disorders, suicidal thoughts and behaviors, trauma-related symptoms and disorders, alcohol and substance use, and autism. Gender minorities frequently experience discrimination, victimization, and violence, primarily sexual and physical violence. The minority stress model attributes mental health symptoms to these factors. Promising interventions based on the minority stress model have recently become available, but more research is needed on how to support transgender and gender diverse people with eating disorders. To manage eating disorders in this population, gender-affirming care should be combined with specialist eating disorder treatment. SUMMARY Gender minorities are at high risk for eating disorders. Future studies should assess what is the most appropriate treatment for transgender and gender diverse people with eating disorders.
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Eustaquio PC, Dela Cruz JDM, Araña Y, Rosos B, Rosadiño JDT, Pagtakhan RG, Regencia ZJG, Baja ES. Prevalence of and factors associated with the use of gender-affirming hormonal therapy outside the reference regimen among transgender people in a community-led clinic in Metro Manila, Philippines: a retrospective cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e072252. [PMID: 37669846 PMCID: PMC10481839 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-072252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to describe the gender-affirming hormonal therapy (GAHT) intake behaviour and regimen and the factors associated with the use of hormones inconsistent with reference GAHT regimen among transgender people in the Philippines. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Transgender community clinic in Metro Manila, Philippines from March 2017 to December 2019. PARTICIPANTS Gender-affirming care-seeking individuals of at least 18 years old, who self-identified as transgender or non-binary, and who self-reported current or previous use of GAHT at baseline consult. PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURES Reported drugs and/or administration routes not congruent with the World Professional Association for Transgender Health Standard of Care eighth edition were classified as hormone use outside the reference regimen. RESULTS 253 transgender people reported current or previous intake of GAHT. Many trans women and transfeminine people (TWTFP; 58.9%, 86/146) reported using oral contraceptive pills (OCPs), whereas most trans men (TM; 73.8%, 79/107) reported injecting testosterone esters. Furthermore, 59.7% (151/253) used hormones outside the reference regimen, widely using OCP and anabolic steroids among TWTFP and TM, respectively. TWTFP (crude prevalence ratio, PR, 3.52; 95% CI 2.35 to 5.49) and those who take unprescribed GAHT (crude PR 2.37; 95% CI 1.08 to 6.68) were more likely to use hormones outside the reference regimen than TM and taking healthcare provider-prescribed GAHT, respectively. On adjusting for covariates, the prevalence of using hormones outside the reference regimen was approximately three times higher (adjusted PR 3.22; 95% CI 2.09 to 5.12) among TWTFP than TM. CONCLUSION Trans people act on their high unmet gender-affirming care needs by taking unprescribed GAHT, many outside the reference regimen. Structural changes in the health system are warranted, including strengthened community-based self-administration practices.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Zypher Jude G Regencia
- Institute of Clinical Epidemiology, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Emmanuel S Baja
- Institute of Clinical Epidemiology, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
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Doyle DM, Lewis TOG, Barreto M. A systematic review of psychosocial functioning changes after gender-affirming hormone therapy among transgender people. Nat Hum Behav 2023; 7:1320-1331. [PMID: 37217739 PMCID: PMC10444622 DOI: 10.1038/s41562-023-01605-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
This systematic review assessed the state and quality of evidence for effects of gender-affirming hormone therapy on psychosocial functioning. Forty-six relevant journal articles (six qualitative, 21 cross-sectional, 19 prospective cohort) were identified. Gender-affirming hormone therapy was consistently found to reduce depressive symptoms and psychological distress. Evidence for quality of life was inconsistent, with some trends suggesting improvements. There was some evidence of affective changes differing for those on masculinizing versus feminizing hormone therapy. Results for self-mastery effects were ambiguous, with some studies suggesting greater anger expression, particularly among those on masculinizing hormone therapy, but no increase in anger intensity. There were some trends toward positive change in interpersonal functioning. Overall, risk of bias was highly variable between studies. Small samples and lack of adjustment for key confounders limited causal inferences. More high-quality evidence for psychosocial effects of gender-affirming hormone therapy is vital for ensuring health equity for transgender people.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Matthew Doyle
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VUmc, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Tom O G Lewis
- Department of Psychology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
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Coswosck KHC, Marques-Rocha JL, Moreira JA, Guandalini VR, Lopes-Júnior LC. Quality of life of transgender people under the lens of social determinants of health: a scoping review protocol. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e067575. [PMID: 37524549 PMCID: PMC10391788 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-067575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is an urgent need for knowledge about the transgender population to inform the development of clinical protocols and training of health professionals on the unique issues affecting this population. Discussing transgender quality of life (QoL) through the lens of social determinants of health (SDOHs) would enable gender-specific health interventions. Here, we aimed to review the evidence on the QoL of transgender people from an SDOH perspective. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A scoping review (ScR) protocol following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews statement and guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute was used. MEDLINE/PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Scopus and registry sites such as ClinicalTrials.gov and WHO ICTRP will be searched. Additional sources to be searched include ProQuest Dissertations/Theses Global, British Library, Google Scholar and Preprints for Health Sciences-medRXiv. Two independent researchers will carry out the selection, data charting and data synthesis. No date restriction will be applied in this ScR. The search will be restricted to articles published in English, Spanish and Portuguese. The results will be presented in tables, narrative summaries and graphs and will be graded on the type of data presented and the results. The search strategy will be updated in April 2023. The expected completion date of this ScR is July 2023. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This ScR protocol does not require ethical approval. Dissemination plans include peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations to be shared with experts in the field, and advisory groups to inform discussions on future research. It is hoped that our findings will be of interest to practitioners, researchers, stakeholders, public and private managers, and the general population concerned with this emerging public health issue. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER osf.io/9ukz6.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jose Luiz Marques-Rocha
- Graduate Program in Nutrition and Health, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitoria, Brazil
| | - Juliana Almeida Moreira
- Graduate Program in Nutrition and Health, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitoria, Brazil
| | - Valdete Regina Guandalini
- Graduate Program in Nutrition and Health, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitoria, Brazil
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Feil K, Riedl D, Böttcher B, Fuchs M, Kapelari K, Gräßer S, Toth B, Lampe A. Higher Prevalence of Adverse Childhood Experiences in Transgender Than in Cisgender Individuals: Results from a Single-Center Observational Study. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4501. [PMID: 37445536 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12134501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Adverse childhood experiences (ACE) have been shown to have a tremendous negative impact on health outcomes later in life. This study presents data on the prevalence of ACEs, psychological distress, and trauma-related symptoms in transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) people compared to cisgender people. TGD adults (n = 35) and a matched sample of nonpsychiatric hospital patients (n = 35) were surveyed between September 2018 and March 2019. Participants completed the Maltreatment and Abuse Chronology of Exposure Scale to assess ACEs, as well as the Brief Symptom Inventory and the Essener Trauma Inventory to assess psychological distress and trauma-related symptoms. TGD patients reported a higher number of ACEs than cisgender patients (0.7 vs. 2.4; p < 0.001; d = 0.94). A total of 28.6% of TGD vs. 5.7% cisgender patients reported four or more ACEs (p < 0.001). The most common forms of ACEs were parental abuse (54.3%) and peer abuse (54.3%). No significantly increased prevalence of sexual abuse was found (p > 0.05). TGD patients also reported a higher prevalence of depression (48.4% vs. 5.7%, p < 0.001), posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms (59.4% vs. 13.8%, p < 0.001), and anxiety (58.1% vs. 28.6%, p = 0.016). Health care providers should be aware of and assess ACEs, especially in vulnerable groups such as TGD people, and create a safe place through open-minded, affirming care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Feil
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - David Riedl
- University Hospital of Psychiatry II, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Medical Psychology, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Rehabilitation Research, 1140 Vienna, Austria
| | - Bettina Böttcher
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Martin Fuchs
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Klaus Kapelari
- Department of Pediatrics I, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Sofie Gräßer
- University Hospital of Psychiatry II, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Medical Psychology, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Bettina Toth
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Astrid Lampe
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Rehabilitation Research, 1140 Vienna, Austria
- VAMED Rehabilitation Center, 6780 Schruns, Austria
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Pribish AM, Iwamoto SJ. Cardiovascular disease and feminizing gender-affirming hormone therapy: Implications for the provision of safe and lifesaving care. Curr Opin Physiol 2023; 33:100650. [PMID: 36968433 PMCID: PMC10035588 DOI: 10.1016/j.cophys.2023.100650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
Sex recorded at birth, gender identity, and feminizing gender-affirming hormone therapy (fGAHT) likely contribute to cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in transgender women. Understanding the interplay of these factors is necessary for the provision of safe, affirming, and lifesaving care. Among transgender women taking fGAHT, data show increases in CVD mortality and rates of myocardial infarction, stroke, and venous thromboembolism compared to reference populations, depending on study design and comparators. However, most studies are observational with a paucity of contextualizing information (e.g., dosing, route of administration, gonadectomy status), which makes it difficult to parse adverse fGAHT effects from confounders and interaction with known CVD risk factors (e.g., obesity, smoking, psychosocial and gender minority stressors). Increased CVD risk in transgender women points toward a need for greater attention to CVD management in this population including cardiology referral when indicated and additional research on the mechanisms and mediators of CVD risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abby M. Pribish
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, 12631 East 17 Avenue, B130, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Sean J. Iwamoto
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, 12801 East 17 Avenue, Mail Stop: 8106, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Endocrinology Service, Medicine Service, Rocky Mountain Regional Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Eastern Colorado Health Care System, 1700 North Wheeling Street, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- UCHealth Integrated Transgender Program, 1635 Aurora Court, Anschutz Outpatient Pavilion, 6 Floor (Diabetes and Endocrinology Clinic), Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
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15
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Bruce H, Munday K, Kapp SK. Exploring the Experiences of Autistic Transgender and Non-Binary Adults in Seeking Gender Identity Health Care. Autism Adulthood 2023; 5:191-203. [PMID: 37346990 PMCID: PMC10280216 DOI: 10.1089/aut.2023.0003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
Background This study sought to obtain an in-depth understanding of autistic transgender and/or non-binary adults' experiences in accessing, or trying to access, gender identity health care (GIH). To our knowledge, no prior study researched this topic. Methods Through semi-structured interviews, we obtained the first-hand experiences of 17 participants. H.B. (cisgender, non-autistic) conducted a reflexive thematic analysis using an inductive approach, in collaboration with K.M., an autistic transgender disability community researcher, and under the supervision of S.K.K., a cisgender autistic autism researcher. Results Thematic analysis determined that poor knowledge of professionals, accessibility issues, and bureaucratic and economic barriers impacted participants' experiences when accessing GIH. Participants experienced a perceived lack of professional knowledge around autism and gender diverse health care needs, limited communication methods and accommodations, and misdiagnosis of mental health difficulties. Accessibility issues included unmet sensory needs, disruption to routine, and a lack of local provision. Further, participants shared that they struggled with unclear processes, standardization of care, long waiting lists, and confusing or inaccessible insurance coverage. Recommendations for improvements highlighted the need to listen to service users to positively impact their experiences in accessing GIH. Conclusion This study suggests that more training needs to be given to health care providers and professionals around autistic experience to help improve providers' competence in communication and providing person-centered accommodations. More training around gender diverse identities is needed, as well as increased knowledge on the co-occurrence of autism and transgender/non-binary identities, to positively impact patient experiences and help improve access to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harley Bruce
- Department of Psychology, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, United Kingdom
| | - Katie Munday
- Department of Education and Sociology, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, United Kingdom
| | - Steven K. Kapp
- Department of Psychology, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, United Kingdom
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16
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Butcher RL, Kinney LM, Blasdel GP, Elwyn G, Myers JB, Boh B, Luck KM, Moses RA. Decision making in metoidioplasty and phalloplasty gender-affirming surgery: a mixed methods study. J Sex Med 2023:7161015. [PMID: 37173118 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdad063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gender-affirming surgical procedures, such as metoidioplasty and phalloplasty for those assigned female at birth, are complex and multistaged and involve risks. Individuals considering these procedures experience greater uncertainty or decisional conflict, compounded by difficulty finding trustworthy information. AIM (1) To explore the factors contributing to decisional uncertainty and the needs of individuals considering metoidioplasty and phalloplasty gender-affirming surgery (MaPGAS) and (2) to inform development of a patient-centered decision aid. METHODS This cross-sectional study was based on mixed methods. Adult transgender men and nonbinary individuals assigned female at birth at various stages of MaPGAS decision making were recruited from 2 study sites in the United States to participate in semistructured interviews and an online gender health survey, which included measures of gender congruence, decisional conflict, urinary health, and quality of life. Trained qualitative researchers conducted all interviews with questions to explore constructs from the Ottawa decision support framework. OUTCOMES Outcomes included goals and priorities for MaPGAS, expectations, knowledge, and decisional needs, as well as variations in decisional conflict by surgical preference, surgical status, and sociodemographic variables. RESULTS We interviewed 26 participants and collected survey data from 39 (24 interviewees, 92%) at various stages of MaPGAS decision making. In surveys and interviews, affirmation of gender identity, standing to urinate, sensation, and the ability to "pass" as male emerged as highly important factors for deciding to undergo MaPGAS. A third of survey respondents reported decisional conflict. Triangulation of data from all sources revealed that conflict emerged most when trying to balance the strong desire to resolve gender dysphoria through surgical transition against the risks and unknowns in urinary and sexual function, appearance, and preservation of sensation post-MaPGAS. Insurance coverage, age, access to surgeons, and health concerns further influenced surgery preferences and timing. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS The findings add to the understanding of decisional needs and priorities of those considering MaPGAS while revealing new complexities among knowledge, personal factors, and decisional uncertainty. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS This mixed methods study was codeveloped by members of the transgender and nonbinary community and yielded important guidance for providers and individuals considering MaPGAS. The results provide rich qualitative insights for MaPGAS decision making in US contexts. Limitations include low diversity and sample size; both are being addressed in work underway. CONCLUSIONS This study increases understanding of the factors important to MaPGAS decision making, and results are being used to guide development of a patient-centered surgical decision aid and informed survey revision for national distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L Butcher
- Center for Program Design and Evaluation, Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755, United States
| | - Linda M Kinney
- Center for Program Design and Evaluation, Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755, United States
| | - Gaines P Blasdel
- University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Glyn Elwyn
- Coproduction Laboratory, Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755, United States
| | - Jeremy B Myers
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT 84103, United States
| | - Benjamin Boh
- Affirm Endocrinology, Lebanon, NH 03766, United States
| | - Kaylee M Luck
- Section of Urology, Department of Surgery, Dartmouth Health, Lebanon, NH 03756, United States
| | - Rachel A Moses
- Section of Urology, Department of Surgery, Dartmouth Health, Lebanon, NH 03756, United States
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH 03755, United States
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Lampis J, De Simone S, Lasio D, Serri F. The Role of Family Support and Dyadic Adjustment on the Psychological Well-being of Transgender Individuals: An Exploratory Study. Sex Res Social Policy 2023:1-17. [PMID: 37363352 PMCID: PMC10166461 DOI: 10.1007/s13178-023-00817-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Introduction This study aimed to measure dyadic adjustment, social support, and psychological well-being. Methods A research protocol composed of the Dyadic Adjustment Scale, the Outcome Questionnaire 45.2, and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support was administered to a sample of 109 Italian transgender individuals. Results Higher levels of global psychological distress, symptom severity, and interpersonal relationship distress were associated with lower levels of family support and dyadic adjustment. In addition, transgender women and younger transgender individuals reported higher levels of interpersonal relationship distress. Conclusions The results indicate that the support and acceptance of one's partner and family of origin play a crucial role in promoting well-being. It represents an important protective factor with respect to negative psychological health outcomes. Policy Implications The findings emphasize the need to develop specific clinical and social practices for transgender individuals and their families. Building family and partner-centered policies and programs is particularly important to enable transgender individuals to avoid paying the emotional and psychological costs associated with rejection and non-acceptance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Lampis
- Department of Education, Psychology, Philosophy, University of Cagliari, Via Is Mirrionis, 1, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Silvia De Simone
- Department of Education, Psychology, Philosophy, University of Cagliari, Via Is Mirrionis, 1, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Diego Lasio
- Department of Education, Psychology, Philosophy, University of Cagliari, Via Is Mirrionis, 1, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Francesco Serri
- Department of Education, Psychology, Philosophy, University of Cagliari, Via Is Mirrionis, 1, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
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18
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Filipov H, Kavla Y, Şahin S, Gökler ME, Turan Ş. The Effects of Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy on Body Satisfaction, Self-Esteem, Quality of Life, and Psychopathology in People with Female-to-Male Gender Dysphoria. Transgend Health 2023; 8:168-174. [PMID: 37013091 PMCID: PMC10066770 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2021.0139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) is one of the most important therapeutic interventions sought by people with gender dysphoria (GD). In the present study, we aimed to examine the effects of GAHT on body satisfaction, self-esteem, quality of life, and psychopathology in people with female-to-male (FtM) GD. Methods Thirty-seven FtM GD participants who did not receive any gender-affirming therapy, 35 FtM GD participants who received GAHT for over 6 months, and 38 cisgender women were included in the study. The Body Cathexis Scale (BCS), Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale (RSES), World Health Organization's Quality of Life Questionnaire Brief Form (WHOQOL-BREF), and Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R) were completed by all participants. Results The BCS scores of the untreated group were significantly lower than both the GAHT group and the female controls (p<0.001); while the WHOQOL-BREF-psychological health scores of the untreated group were significantly lower than those of the female controls (p=0.003). The psychoticism subscale scores on the SCL-90-R of the untreated group were higher than those of the GAHT group (p=0.04) as well as the female controls (p=0.003). With regard to the RSES, there were no significant differences between the groups. Conclusion Our findings suggest that people with FtM GD who receive GAHT are more satisfied with their bodies and have less psychopathological problems compared to those who do not receive GAHT, but their quality of life and self-esteem do not change as a result of GAHT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hülya Filipov
- Department of Psychology, Dogus University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Yasin Kavla
- Department of Psychiatry, Cerrahpaşa School of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Fatih, Turkey
| | - Serdar Şahin
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Cerrahpaşa School of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Fatih, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Enes Gökler
- Department of Public Health, Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Şenol Turan
- Department of Psychiatry, Cerrahpaşa School of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Fatih, Turkey
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19
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Shen WCV, Shen BH. Partial Regret After Gender Affirmation Surgery of a 35-Year-Old Taiwanese Transgender Woman. Arch Sex Behav 2023; 52:1345-1351. [PMID: 36253559 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-022-02442-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Gender-affirming surgery (GAS) is often sought after to alleviate the distress of those who suffer from gender dysphoria (GD). While many studies have shown that a significant percentage of people benefit from this procedure, a number of individuals later regret their decision of undergoing surgery. Studies have illustrated what regret depicts, categorizing regret based on intensity, persistency, and sources, in the hopes to prevent an unwanted irreversible intervention. Here, an in-depth interview with a 35-year-old transwoman from Taiwan who underwent feminizing GAS at the age of 31 illustrates her unique cultural upbringing and the course of her regret. Her experience best matches the characteristics of true regret and major regret based on the classifications of Pfäfflin and Wiepjes, respectively, indicating that she expected GAS to be the solution to her personal acceptance issue, but, in retrospect, regretted the diagnosis and treatment as her problems were not solved and worsened to the extent of secondary dysphoria. This case report hopes to shed light on the complexity of GD and regret after GAS, while encouraging the pre-surgical evaluation of psychological comorbidities and post-surgical psychotherapy, and ensuring that patients are informed and give full consent. In addition, more elaborate, long-term, large-scale qualitative research, especially within more conservative cultural settings, is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Chi V Shen
- School of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Bing-Hwei Shen
- School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City, 11221, Taiwan.
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20
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Mason A, Crowe E, Haragan B, Smith S, Kyriakou A. Gender Dysphoria in Young People: A Model of Chronic Stress. Horm Res Paediatr 2023; 96:54-65. [PMID: 34673639 DOI: 10.1159/000520361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gender dysphoria (GD) refers to the distress that may accompany gender incongruence, often heightened at the onset of puberty, with the development of secondary sex characteristics. Children and adolescents may be especially vulnerable to severe stressors, including GD, with potentially irreversible effects if these exposures occur during critical periods of development and brain maturation. SUMMARY We describe the evidence for GD as a chronic stressor, drawing parallels to other established models of stress, activating both innate psychological and biological stress responses. As well as being an inherently distressing experience, a person who experiences GD may also experience minority stress. Minority stress has been demonstrated in young people who experience GD with higher rates of social rejection and internalized stigma and shame. The biological stress response in young people with GD is illustrated through the activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, autonomic nervous system, and pro-inflammatory response. The number of young people who report experiencing GD has increased exponentially worldwide in the past decade, demanding a change in the clinic infrastructure. Paediatric endocrinologists and specialists in mental health work together to both support psychosocial well-being and offer individualized treatment to align the phenotype with gender identity with the aim of alleviating the distress of GD. Medical interventions may include puberty suppression and gender-affirming hormones. Ongoing monitoring is required prior to initiation and during treatment to ensure that the goals of treatment are being achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avril Mason
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow, UK
| | - Eimear Crowe
- Young People's Gender Service, Sandyford Services, Glasgow, UK
| | - Beccy Haragan
- Young People's Gender Service, Sandyford Services, Glasgow, UK
| | - Simon Smith
- Young People's Gender Service, Sandyford Services, Glasgow, UK
| | - Andreas Kyriakou
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow, UK.,Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Makarios Children's Hospital, Nicosia, Cyprus
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Expósito-Campos P, Pérez-Fernández JI, Salaberria K. Empirically supported affirmative psychological interventions for transgender and non-binary youth and adults: A systematic review. Clin Psychol Rev 2023; 100:102229. [PMID: 36512905 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2022.102229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Research suggests that transgender and non-binary (TGNB) individuals experience lower levels of psychological well-being than the general population. Although practice recommendations and guidelines exist, there is a paucity of studies evaluating the effects of psychological interventions on this group. This systematic review aimed to synthesize and analyze existing empirical affirmative psychological interventions for TGNB individuals to assess their efficacy. Eight databases (PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Scopus, LILACS, Cochrane, ProQuest, Google Scholar) were searched from January 2010 to June 2022 to identify relevant studies. Included studies needed to be randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental, or uncontrolled pre-post. Twenty-two articles were included, of which eight had TGNB participants only, two had mixed samples with separated outcome data for TGNB participants, and 12 had mixed samples with no disaggregated data. Experimental designs, participant samples, assessed variables, and type of interventions varied widely across studies, thus preventing comparisons. Overall results suggest improvements in psychological distress, depression, anxiety, suicidality, substance-related risk behaviors, coping skills/emotion regulation, stress appraisal, self-esteem, self-acceptance, social support, minority stress, resilience, hope, positive identity, and identity acceptance, although conclusions are limited by moderate-to-high risk of bias. Future research should implement more consistent and rigorous methodological designs to assess and compare intervention efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Expósito-Campos
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology and Research Methods, Faculty of Psychology, University of the Basque Country, Tolosa Hiribidea 70, 20018 Donostia-San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa, Spain; Predoctoral Research Fellowship Program of the Department of Education of the Government of the Basque Country, Spain.
| | - José Ignacio Pérez-Fernández
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology and Research Methods, Faculty of Psychology, University of the Basque Country, Tolosa Hiribidea 70, 20018 Donostia-San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa, Spain
| | - Karmele Salaberria
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology and Research Methods, Faculty of Psychology, University of the Basque Country, Tolosa Hiribidea 70, 20018 Donostia-San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa, Spain
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Oliveira J, Frontini R, Jacinto M, Antunes R. The Practice of Physical Exercise and Sports in Portuguese Trans Youth: A Case Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:668. [PMID: 36900673 PMCID: PMC10001314 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11050668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The following case study aims to analyze the experience of a Portuguese trans individual regarding their practice of physical exercise (PE) and sports in Portuguese gyms and sports clubs. A 30-min interview was conducted through the Zoom platform. Before the interview, four questionnaires-Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and EUROHIS-QOL 8-item index-were also applied, all in their Portuguese version. The interview was digitally video recorded after consent was obtained, transcribed verbatim, and subject to thematic analysis. Findings suggest positive values for satisfaction with life and quality of life. The values of positive affect were higher than those of negative affect, and there was an absence of depressive and anxious symptomatology. In the qualitative analysis, mental health was the main motive for the practice, while locker rooms separated by gender and university life were the main barriers mentioned. Mixed changing rooms were identified as facilitators of PE practice. This study highlights the importance of developing strategies for the creation of mixed changing rooms and sports teams in order to promote a comfortable and safe practice for all individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Roberta Frontini
- CIEQV-Life Quality Research Centre, Polytechnic of Leiria, 2411 Leiria, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Polytechnic of Leiria, 2411 Leiria, Portugal
| | - Miguel Jacinto
- ESECS, Polytechnic of Leiria, 2411 Leiria, Portugal
- CIEQV-Life Quality Research Centre, Polytechnic of Leiria, 2411 Leiria, Portugal
- Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, University of Coimbra, 3040 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Raul Antunes
- ESECS, Polytechnic of Leiria, 2411 Leiria, Portugal
- CIEQV-Life Quality Research Centre, Polytechnic of Leiria, 2411 Leiria, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Polytechnic of Leiria, 2411 Leiria, Portugal
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Engel L, Majmudar I, Mihalopoulos C, Tollit MA, Pang KC. Assessment of Quality of Life of Transgender and Gender-Diverse Children and Adolescents in Melbourne, Australia, 2017-2020. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2254292. [PMID: 36729456 PMCID: PMC9896293 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.54292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) children and adolescents may experience not only gender dysphoria but also depression and anxiety, all of which are likely to be associated with reduced quality of life (QOL). Despite this, little is known about QOL in this population. OBJECTIVES To identify demographic, social, and clinical characteristics associated with reduced QOL in TGD children and adolescents; compare their QOL with age-matched population-based norms and that of young people with common mental health problems; and evaluate the association between gender dysphoria and QOL. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS In this cohort study, baseline data were derived from questionnaires completed in a prospective cohort study (Trans20) of TGD children aged 6 to 12 years and adolescents aged 13 to 17 years first seen at the Royal Children's Hospital Gender Service (Melbourne, Australia) between February 2017 and February 2020. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The main outcome was QOL, measured using the Child Health Utility 9D instrument (CHU-9D). Data collection included demographic information, social factors (eg, bullying, lack of support, and social transition), and clinical characteristics (eg, gender identity, gender dysphoria, and mental health difficulties). Population norms and CHU-9D data for Australian youths with mental health diagnoses were derived from published literature. RESULTS The TGD cohort comprised 525 children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 years (median age, 14 years [IQR, 12-16 years]; 364 [69.33%] presumed female at birth). The mean (SD) CHU-9D score was 0.46 (0.26). Compared with population norms, TGD children (0.58 [0.27] vs 0.81 [0.16]; P < .001) and adolescents (0.41 [0.25] vs 0.80 [0.14]; P < .001) had significantly lower scores. Within the TGD cohort, mean (SD) scores were significantly lower in adolescents (0.41 [0.24] vs 0.62 [0.25]; P < .001), those assigned female at birth (0.43 [0.26] vs 0.55 [0.25]; P < .001), those reporting mental health problems (0.37 [0.23] vs 0.57 [0.25]; P < .001) and physical health problems (0.41 [0.26] vs 0.48 [0.26]; P = .04), and those who were bullied (0.38 [0.24] vs 0.52 [0.25]; P < .001). Gender dysphoria alone was associated with a lower mean (SD) CHU-9D score (0.51 [0.23]) than that in control adolescents with serious mental health conditions such as depression (0.64 [0.26]) and anxiety (0.70 [0.24]) and was an independent factor associated with QOL. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE In this cohort study of TGD children and adolescents in Australia, QOL was worse in this population than in age-matched, population-based peers. Quality of life associated with gender dysphoria was substantially worse than that seen in young people with common mental health conditions. These findings emphasize the risk of poor QOL among TGD young people and the need to better support them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Engel
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ishani Majmudar
- Deakin Health Economics, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Cathrine Mihalopoulos
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Deakin Health Economics, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michelle A. Tollit
- The Royal Children’s Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ken C. Pang
- The Royal Children’s Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Cooper K, Mandy W, Butler C, Russell A. Phenomenology of gender dysphoria in autism: a multiperspective qualitative analysis. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2023; 64:265-276. [PMID: 36089890 PMCID: PMC10087378 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autistic people are overrepresented in gender clinic settings, but limited evidence is available to guide clinical decision making for this patient group. We aimed to generate a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenology of gender dysphoria in autistic people. METHODS We conducted a multi-perspectival interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA), from five different perspectives; autistic young people and adults with experience of gender dysphoria, parents of young people, and clinicians working with autistic people with gender dysphoria in both adult and young person settings (n = 68). RESULTS IPA analysis resulted in two themes, 'discovering gender identity' and 'the complexities of moving towards gender comfort'. Participants agreed that there was often an interaction between gender dysphoria and features of autism such as sensory sensitivities. There was relative consensus across groups about the need for autism adaptations to be made in gender clinics. Autistic adults were more likely to see autism as an important identity than young people, but both groups were clear that autism did not impair their understanding of gender. In contrast, some parents and clinicians working with young people expressed concern that autism did impact self-understanding. DISCUSSION While the groups tended to agree on the ways in which particular features of autism can compound gender dysphoria, there were a range of perspectives on the ways in which autism impacted on self-knowledge. CONCLUSION Recommendations for adaptations when working with autistic people with gender dysphoria are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Cooper
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Applied Autism Research, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - William Mandy
- Research Department of Clinical, Educational, and Health Psychology, London, UK
| | | | - Ailsa Russell
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Applied Autism Research, University of Bath, Bath, UK
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Aldridge Z, Thorne N, Bouman WP, Witcomb GL, Arcelus J. A Longitudinal Study Exploring the Role of Mental Health Symptoms and Social Support Regarding Life Satisfaction 18 Months after Initiation of Gender-Affirming Hormone Treatment. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11. [PMID: 36766954 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11030379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
While positive changes in mental health have been found following gender-affirming hormone treatment (GAHT), it is unclear how pre-GAHT mental health and social support can influence treatment outcomes. To address this, a retrospective longitudinal design was used in which 137 participants completed measures of social support, anxiety, and depression prior to GAHT (T0) and a measure of life satisfaction 18 months after GAHT (T1). The data showed no significant differences in life satisfaction at T1 based on T0 caseness of anxiety or depression. It was also found that T1 life satisfaction was not predicted by levels of anxiety, depression, or social support at T0. The lack of significant differences in life satisfaction at 18 months post-GAHT based on pre-GAHT mental health, coupled with no evidence for the predictive role social support suggest that these factors are not central to long-term life satisfaction. For many, lower mental wellbeing may be part of the experience of awaiting GAHT and should not be regarded as indicative of longer-term issues. Instead, facilitation of social support connections and mental health support should be offered both concurrently with, and for those awaiting, GAHT.
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Harrop EN, Hecht HK, Harner V, Call J, Holloway BT. "How Do I Exist in This Body…That's Outside of the Norm?" Trans and Nonbinary Experiences of Conformity, Coping, and Connection in Atypical Anorexia. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:1156. [PMID: 36673911 PMCID: PMC9859328 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Addressing eating disorders (EDs) within trans and nonbinary (TNB) populations is a growing concern, as TNB individuals are two to four times more likely to experience EDs than cisgender women. This study explored the lived experiences of TNB people with atypical anorexia by examining how gender identity impacted experiences of ED illness and (potential) recovery. Nine TNB adults with atypical anorexia were followed for one year and completed semi-structured, in-depth, longitudinal qualitative interviews at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. Interviews were coded using Braun and Clark's thematic analysis procedures. Four themes, along with subthemes, emerged regarding the intersection of gender identity and ED experiences: (1) Conforming, (2) Coping, (3) Connecting, and (4) Critiquing. In Conforming, participants highlighted how societal pressures around gender contributed to ED vulnerability. In Coping, participants explained that their EDs represented attempts to cope with the overlapping influences of body dissatisfaction, gender dysphoria, and body disconnection. In Connecting, participants described ED recovery as a process of connecting to self, others, and communities that welcomed and affirmed their diverse identities. In Critiquing, participants described how current ED treatment settings were often unwelcoming of or unprepared for non-cisgender patients. Overall, participants viewed their EDs as intricately linked to their gender identity and experiences of social pressure and discrimination. This study suggests the need for targeted ED prevention and intervention efforts within TNB communities, and the ethical imperative to meaningfully address the needs of TNB patients in ED treatment settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin N. Harrop
- Graduate School of Social Work, University of Denver, Denver, CO 80208, USA
| | - Hillary K. Hecht
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Vern Harner
- Harborview Injury Prevention & Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
- School of Social Work and Criminal Justice, University of Washington Tacoma, Tacoma, WA 98402, USA
| | - Jarrod Call
- School of Social Work and Criminal Justice, University of Washington Tacoma, Tacoma, WA 98402, USA
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Cerón-Enríquez N. Particularities of physical training and control of risk factors in the transgender and gender-diverse population. Arch Cardiol Mex 2023; 93:13-17. [PMID: 37992706 PMCID: PMC10665109 DOI: 10.24875/acm.m23000088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) population holds significant relevance concerning exercise and sports practices. Specific challenges are highlighted, such as physical inactivity driven by internal and external reasons, including discrimination in sports environments. Psychological aspects and hormonal therapy effects create implications for hindering participation in sports competitions. Disparities in cardiovascular risk factors are also mentioned, emphasizing the need for inclusive sports policies based on scientific evidence. The article underscores the importance of addressing social, psychological, and medical aspects to promote the physical and mental health of the TGD population, particularly in the professional sports area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norma Cerón-Enríquez
- Clínica de Rehabilitación Cardiopulmonar, Hospital Ángeles Puebla, Puebla, México
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Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Autistic people are more likely to have a gender identity which does not match their sex assigned at birth. Some people experience distress about their sex and gender not matching, which is called gender dysphoria. Such individuals may wish to attend a gender clinic to access healthcare support for gender dysphoria. Currently, there is limited evidence to help clinicians best support autistic people who need healthcare for gender dysphoria. We wanted to find out what healthcare clinicians think about working with autistic patients with gender dysphoria. We interviewed 16 clinicians who work in healthcare services with adults and young people who are autistic and experience gender dysphoria. We recorded the interviews and carefully analysed the content to find key themes. We found that clinicians worked with patients to try and better understand their experiences of gender dysphoria. Clinicians identified features of autism that they believed were related to gender identity and dysphoria including different thinking styles, social differences, and sensory sensitivities. Clinicians noticed that autistic people spoke about their gender in different ways to non-autistic people. Clinicians tried to adapt their practice to better meet the needs of their autistic patients. These adaptations tended to focus on differences in the assessment process, for example, offering longer or shorter appointments and changing their communication style. We conclude that clinicians were offering an individualised approach to autistic patients experiencing gender dysphoria. However, these clinicians were particularly interested in working with autistic people, and so may not be representative of the wider clinician population. Clinicians working in this area should receive training on autism adaptations and the intersection of autism and gender dysphoria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Cooper
- University of Bath, UK,Kate Cooper, Department of Psychology,
Centre for Applied Autism Research, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath BA2
7AY, UK.
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Tebbe EA, Budge SL. Factors that drive mental health disparities and promote well-being in transgender and nonbinary people. Nat Rev Psychol 2022. [PMID: 36187743 PMCID: PMC9513020 DOI: 10.1038/s44159-022-00109-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Transgender (or trans) is an umbrella term for individuals who experience their gender differently from what is associated with the sex they were assigned at birth. Individuals who are nonbinary experience their gender outside binary conceptions of gender. Although research has predominantly focused on negative mental health outcomes for transgender and non-binary (TNB) individuals, an emergent literature has begun to explore protective and health-promoting factors and dimensions of psychological well-being. In this Review, we discuss the sociocultural context for TNB people, beginning with a brief history of TNB identity before highlighting frameworks for understanding the higher prevalence of certain mental health concerns among TNB individuals. Next, we summarize the predictive factors associated with higher rates of depression, anxiety, suicidality, trauma-related concerns, disordered eating behaviours and substance use. We also review TNB coping, resilience and resistance to anti-trans stigma, as well as psychological well-being, flourishing and gender euphoria. Tying these topics together, we discuss affirming interventions for reducing mental health disparities and promoting psychological health in TNB individuals and communities. We conclude by discussing future research directions. Individuals who are transgender or nonbinary experience a higher prevalence of certain mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety and disordered eating behaviours. In this Review, Tebbe and Budge discuss these disparities along with factors that protect these individuals from negative outcomes and promote well-being.
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Soled KRS, Dimant OE, Tanguay J, Mukerjee R, Poteat T. Interdisciplinary clinicians' attitudes, challenges, and success strategies in providing care to transgender people: a qualitative descriptive study. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1134. [PMID: 36076288 PMCID: PMC9454229 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08517-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Access to clinicians competent in transgender health remains a significant barrier and contributor toward health inequity for transgender people. Studies on access and barriers to care have predominantly evaluated transgender patients' perceptions, but scant research has included the perspectives of clinicians. AIMS We conducted a qualitative study to explore how clinicians (meaning physicians and advanced practice providers, in this paper) in the United States: (1) attain and utilize information, (2) perceive barriers and facilitators, and (3) understood gaps in their professional training, in regard to practicing transgender health care. METHODS A Qualitative Descriptive approach guided our conventional content analysis of field notes and interviews with clinicians within a parent study that explored health care access among transgender adults. Transcripts were coded into meaning units that were iteratively abstracted into themes. Standard measures were performed to promote the trustworthiness of the analysis and reduce bias. RESULTS Participants (n = 13) consisted of physicians (n = 8), physician assistants (n = 3), and nurse practitioners (n = 2). The majority were women (n = 11), identified as White (n = 9), cisgender (n = 13), and ages ranged from 31 - 58 years. Five main themes were identified: (1) Knowledge Acquisition: Formal and Informal Pathways to Competency; (2) Perceived Challenges and Barriers: I didn't know what I was doing; (3) Power to Deny: Prescriptive Authority and Gatekeeping; (4) Stigma: This is really strange, and I can't really understand it; (5) Reflections: Strategies for Success, Rewards, and Personal Motivations. DISCUSSION Clinicians gained a sense of comfort and competence with mentorship, self-directed learning, clinical experience, and person-centered, harm-reduction approaches. Stigma, bias, and structural-level factors were barriers to providing care. This study offers a unique perspective of clinicians' motivations and strategies for providing gender-affirming care and elucidates how stigma impacts the delivery of gender-affirming care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kodiak Ray Sung Soled
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, MA USA ,grid.21729.3f0000000419368729Columbia University School of Nursing, New York, NY USA
| | - Oscar E. Dimant
- grid.415191.90000 0000 9146 3393Rutgers-New Jersey, Medical School, Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation, Newark, NJ USA
| | - Jona Tanguay
- grid.429506.c0000 0004 4670 6287Whitman-Walker Health, Washington, District of Columbia USA
| | - Ronica Mukerjee
- grid.21729.3f0000000419368729Columbia University School of Nursing, New York, NY USA
| | - Tonia Poteat
- grid.410711.20000 0001 1034 1720Department of Social Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC USA
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31
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Coleman E, Radix AE, Bouman WP, Brown GR, de Vries ALC, Deutsch MB, Ettner R, Fraser L, Goodman M, Green J, Hancock AB, Johnson TW, Karasic DH, Knudson GA, Leibowitz SF, Meyer-Bahlburg HFL, Monstrey SJ, Motmans J, Nahata L, Nieder TO, Reisner SL, Richards C, Schechter LS, Tangpricha V, Tishelman AC, Van Trotsenburg MAA, Winter S, Ducheny K, Adams NJ, Adrián TM, Allen LR, Azul D, Bagga H, Başar K, Bathory DS, Belinky JJ, Berg DR, Berli JU, Bluebond-Langner RO, Bouman MB, Bowers ML, Brassard PJ, Byrne J, Capitán L, Cargill CJ, Carswell JM, Chang SC, Chelvakumar G, Corneil T, Dalke KB, De Cuypere G, de Vries E, Den Heijer M, Devor AH, Dhejne C, D'Marco A, Edmiston EK, Edwards-Leeper L, Ehrbar R, Ehrensaft D, Eisfeld J, Elaut E, Erickson-Schroth L, Feldman JL, Fisher AD, Garcia MM, Gijs L, Green SE, Hall BP, Hardy TLD, Irwig MS, Jacobs LA, Janssen AC, Johnson K, Klink DT, Kreukels BPC, Kuper LE, Kvach EJ, Malouf MA, Massey R, Mazur T, McLachlan C, Morrison SD, Mosser SW, Neira PM, Nygren U, Oates JM, Obedin-Maliver J, Pagkalos G, Patton J, Phanuphak N, Rachlin K, Reed T, Rider GN, Ristori J, Robbins-Cherry S, Roberts SA, Rodriguez-Wallberg KA, Rosenthal SM, Sabir K, Safer JD, Scheim AI, Seal LJ, Sehoole TJ, Spencer K, St Amand C, Steensma TD, Strang JF, Taylor GB, Tilleman K, T'Sjoen GG, Vala LN, Van Mello NM, Veale JF, Vencill JA, Vincent B, Wesp LM, West MA, Arcelus J. Standards of Care for the Health of Transgender and Gender Diverse People, Version 8. Int J Transgend Health 2022; 23:S1-S259. [PMID: 36238954 PMCID: PMC9553112 DOI: 10.1080/26895269.2022.2100644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 455] [Impact Index Per Article: 227.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Background: Transgender healthcare is a rapidly evolving interdisciplinary field. In the last decade, there has been an unprecedented increase in the number and visibility of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people seeking support and gender-affirming medical treatment in parallel with a significant rise in the scientific literature in this area. The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) is an international, multidisciplinary, professional association whose mission is to promote evidence-based care, education, research, public policy, and respect in transgender health. One of the main functions of WPATH is to promote the highest standards of health care for TGD people through the Standards of Care (SOC). The SOC was initially developed in 1979 and the last version (SOC-7) was published in 2012. In view of the increasing scientific evidence, WPATH commissioned a new version of the Standards of Care, the SOC-8. Aim: The overall goal of SOC-8 is to provide health care professionals (HCPs) with clinical guidance to assist TGD people in accessing safe and effective pathways to achieving lasting personal comfort with their gendered selves with the aim of optimizing their overall physical health, psychological well-being, and self-fulfillment. Methods: The SOC-8 is based on the best available science and expert professional consensus in transgender health. International professionals and stakeholders were selected to serve on the SOC-8 committee. Recommendation statements were developed based on data derived from independent systematic literature reviews, where available, background reviews and expert opinions. Grading of recommendations was based on the available evidence supporting interventions, a discussion of risks and harms, as well as the feasibility and acceptability within different contexts and country settings. Results: A total of 18 chapters were developed as part of the SOC-8. They contain recommendations for health care professionals who provide care and treatment for TGD people. Each of the recommendations is followed by explanatory text with relevant references. General areas related to transgender health are covered in the chapters Terminology, Global Applicability, Population Estimates, and Education. The chapters developed for the diverse population of TGD people include Assessment of Adults, Adolescents, Children, Nonbinary, Eunuchs, and Intersex Individuals, and people living in Institutional Environments. Finally, the chapters related to gender-affirming treatment are Hormone Therapy, Surgery and Postoperative Care, Voice and Communication, Primary Care, Reproductive Health, Sexual Health, and Mental Health. Conclusions: The SOC-8 guidelines are intended to be flexible to meet the diverse health care needs of TGD people globally. While adaptable, they offer standards for promoting optimal health care and guidance for the treatment of people experiencing gender incongruence. As in all previous versions of the SOC, the criteria set forth in this document for gender-affirming medical interventions are clinical guidelines; individual health care professionals and programs may modify these in consultation with the TGD person.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Coleman
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - A E Radix
- Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - W P Bouman
- Nottingham Centre for Transgender Health, Nottingham, UK
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - G R Brown
- James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
- James H. Quillen VAMC, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - A L C de Vries
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M B Deutsch
- Department of Family & Community Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- UCSF Gender Affirming Health Program, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - R Ettner
- New Health Foundation Worldwide, Evanston, IL, USA
- Weiss Memorial Hospital, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - L Fraser
- Independent Practice, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - M Goodman
- Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - J Green
- Independent Scholar, Vancouver, WA, USA
| | - A B Hancock
- The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - T W Johnson
- Department of Anthropology, California State University, Chico, CA, USA
| | - D H Karasic
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Independent Practice at dankarasic.com
| | - G A Knudson
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Vancouver Coastal Health, Vancouver, Canada
| | - S F Leibowitz
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - H F L Meyer-Bahlburg
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - J Motmans
- Transgender Infopunt, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
- Centre for Research on Culture and Gender, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - L Nahata
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
- Endocrinology and Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - T O Nieder
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Interdisciplinary Transgender Health Care Center Hamburg, Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine and Forensic Psychiatry, Hamburg, Germany
| | - S L Reisner
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - C Richards
- Regents University London, UK
- Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - V Tangpricha
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism & Lipids, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - A C Tishelman
- Boston College, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA
| | - M A A Van Trotsenburg
- Bureau GenderPRO, Vienna, Austria
- University Hospital Lilienfeld-St. Pölten, St. Pölten, Austria
| | - S Winter
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - K Ducheny
- Howard Brown Health, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - N J Adams
- University of Toronto, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, Toronto, Canada
- Transgender Professional Association for Transgender Health (TPATH)
| | - T M Adrián
- Asamblea Nacional de Venezuela, Caracas, Venezuela
- Diverlex Diversidad e Igualdad a Través de la Ley, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - L R Allen
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - D Azul
- La Trobe Rural Health School, La Trobe University, Bendigo, Australia
| | - H Bagga
- Monash Health Gender Clinic, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - K Başar
- Department of Psychiatry, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - D S Bathory
- Independent Practice at Bathory International PLLC, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - J J Belinky
- Durand Hospital, Guemes Clinic and Urological Center, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - D R Berg
- National Center for Gender Spectrum Health, Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - J U Berli
- Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - R O Bluebond-Langner
- NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
- Hansjörg Wyss Department of Plastic Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - M-B Bouman
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, , Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - M L Bowers
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Mills-Peninsula Medical Center, Burlingame, CA, USA
| | - P J Brassard
- GrS Montreal, Complexe CMC, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Université de Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - J Byrne
- University of Waikato/Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato, Hamilton/Kirikiriroa, New Zealand/Aotearoa
| | - L Capitán
- The Facialteam Group, Marbella International Hospital, Marbella, Spain
| | | | - J M Carswell
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Boston's Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - S C Chang
- Independent Practice, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - G Chelvakumar
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- The Ohio State University, College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - T Corneil
- School of Population & Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - K B Dalke
- Penn State Health, PA, USA
- Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - G De Cuypere
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
| | - E de Vries
- Nelson Mandela University, Gqeberha, South Africa
- University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - M Den Heijer
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Endocrinology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, , Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - A H Devor
- University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - C Dhejne
- ANOVA, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - A D'Marco
- UCTRANS-United Caribbean Trans Network, Nassau, The Bahamas
- D M A R C O Organization, Nassau, The Bahamas
| | - E K Edmiston
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - L Edwards-Leeper
- Pacific University, Hillsboro, OR, USA
- Independent Practice, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - R Ehrbar
- Whitman Walker Health, Washington, DC, USA
- Independent Practice, Maryland, USA
| | - D Ehrensaft
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - J Eisfeld
- Transvisie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - E Elaut
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
- Department of Clinical Experimental and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - L Erickson-Schroth
- The Jed Foundation, New York, NY, USA
- Hetrick-Martin Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - J L Feldman
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - A D Fisher
- Andrology, Women Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - M M Garcia
- Department of Urology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Departments of Urology and Anatomy, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - L Gijs
- Institute of Family and Sexuality Studies, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - B P Hall
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Adult Gender Medicine Clinic, Durham, NC, USA
| | - T L D Hardy
- Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- MacEwan University, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - M S Irwig
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - A C Janssen
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - K Johnson
- RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia
- University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
| | - D T Klink
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, ZNA Queen Paola Children's Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - B P C Kreukels
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, , Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - L E Kuper
- Department of Psychiatry, Southwestern Medical Center, University of Texas, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Endocrinology, Children's Health, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - E J Kvach
- Denver Health, Denver, CO, USA
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - M A Malouf
- Malouf Counseling and Consulting, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - R Massey
- WPATH Global Education Institute
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - T Mazur
- Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
- John R. Oishei Children's Hospital, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - C McLachlan
- Professional Association for Transgender Health, South Africa
- Gender DynamiX, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - S D Morrison
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA, USA
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - S W Mosser
- Gender Confirmation Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Saint Francis Memorial Hospital, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - P M Neira
- Johns Hopkins Center for Transgender Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Johns Hopkins Medicine Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Health Equity, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - U Nygren
- Division of Speech and Language Pathology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Speech and Language Pathology, Medical Unit, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - J M Oates
- La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
- Melbourne Voice Analysis Centre, East Melbourne, Australia
| | - J Obedin-Maliver
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - G Pagkalos
- Independent PracticeThessaloniki, Greece
- Military Community Mental Health Center, 424 General Military Training Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - J Patton
- Talkspace, New York, NY, USA
- CytiPsychological LLC, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - N Phanuphak
- Institute of HIV Research and Innovation, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - K Rachlin
- Independent Practice, New York, NY, USA
| | - T Reed
- Gender Identity Research and Education Society, Leatherhead, UK
| | - G N Rider
- National Center for Gender Spectrum Health, Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - J Ristori
- Andrology, Women Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | | | - S A Roberts
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston's Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - K A Rodriguez-Wallberg
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - S M Rosenthal
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
- UCSF Child and Adolescent Gender Center
| | - K Sabir
- FtM Phoenix Group, Krasnodar Krai, Russia
| | - J D Safer
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Mount Sinai Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - A I Scheim
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, Ontario, Canada
| | - L J Seal
- Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - K Spencer
- National Center for Gender Spectrum Health, Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - C St Amand
- University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
- Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - T D Steensma
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, , Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - J F Strang
- Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
- George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - G B Taylor
- Atrium Health Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - K Tilleman
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
| | - G G T'Sjoen
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
| | - L N Vala
- Independent Practice, Campbell, CA, USA
| | - N M Van Mello
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - J F Veale
- School of Psychology, University of Waikato/Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato, Hamilton/Kirikiriroa, New Zealand/Aotearoa
| | - J A Vencill
- Department of Psychiatry & Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - B Vincent
- Trans Learning Partnership at https://spectra-london.org.uk/trans-learning-partnership, UK
| | - L M Wesp
- College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin MilwaukeeMilwaukee, WI, USA
- Health Connections Inc., Glendale, WI, USA
| | - M A West
- North Memorial Health Hospital, Robbinsdale, MN, USA
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - J Arcelus
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
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Pinciotti CM, Wadsworth LP, Miron LR, Riemann BC, Leonard RC. Transgender and Gender Diverse Patients in Intensive Mood Disorder Treatment: A Comparative Examination of Clinical Presentation and Treatment Outcomes. Behav Ther 2022; 53:1062-76. [PMID: 35987536 DOI: 10.1016/j.beth.2022.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Individuals who are transgender and gender diverse (TGD) are more likely to suffer from and to seek mental health services for mood disorders. Some literature suggests that TGD individuals, because of pervasive and systemic minority stress, may have more complex clinical presentations (i.e., psychiatric conditions and severity of symptoms) and may benefit from empirically based treatments to a lesser degree than their cisgender peers. However, research has yet to examine individuals who are TGD receiving treatment in specialized, intensive mood disorder treatment despite the propensity for them to be diagnosed with and treated for mood disorders. Using a sample of 1,326 adult patients in intensive mood disorder treatment (3.8% TGD), the clinical presentation and treatment outcomes were compared between patients who are TGD and cisgender. Contrary to previous research, TGD patients were largely similar if not healthier than their cisgender counterparts, including similar depression severity, quality of life, emotion dysregulation, and behavioral activation, and less severe rumination at admission. Despite similar to better reported mental health symptoms, TGD patients were diagnosed with more psychiatric conditions overall, including greater prevalence of social anxiety and neurodevelopmental diagnoses. Those who are TGD did not experience attenuated treatment response as predicted. Findings suggest that patients in intensive mood disorder treatment who are TGD may be more resilient than previously assumed, or supports may have increased to buffer effects of stigma on mental health, and emphasize the need to exercise discretion and sensitivity in diagnostic practices to prevent over-diagnosis and pathologizing of TGD individuals.
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Feil K, Riedl D, Gschwentner L, Vomstein K, Wegscheider J, Arnold E, Toth B. Development of a quality of life questionnaire for transgender individuals during hormone therapy (iTransQol). Arch Gynecol Obstet. [PMID: 35876907 PMCID: PMC9470628 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-022-06689-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Quality of life (QoL) is a complex term, including mental, physical and social health, and everyone’s individual environment. While transgender individuals still often report lower QoL than other individuals, they can benefit substantially from gender affirming therapy. The aim of this study was to develop a questionnaire to determine QoL in transgender individuals during gender affirming hormone therapy (GAHT). Methods A multi-step questionnaire development process was performed. In phase 1, a list of key issues was established by reviewing relevant literature. In phase 2, n = 38 transgender individuals as well as n = 6 practitioners evaluated the questionnaire (iTransQoL) in terms of relevance, meaning, comprehensibility and redundancy. Psychometric testing of the questionnaire was performed in phase 3 with n = 40 transgender individuals. The external validity of the iTransQoL was tested by comparison with three validated health questionnaires. Results The exploratory factor analysis indicated an underlying four-factor solution. Psychometric testing showed acceptable to good overall reliability (α = 0.73–0.83) for the total score and the four subscales as well as good validity indices. Based on the results, a final version of the iTransQoL was established. Conclusion The iTransQoL is a reliable and valid tool to evaluate QoL of transgender individuals during GAHT.
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Aldridge Z, Thorne N, Marshall E, English C, Yip AKT, Nixon E, Witcomb GL, Bouman WP, Arcelus J. Understanding factors that affect wellbeing in trans people "later" in transition: a qualitative study. Qual Life Res 2022. [PMID: 35412264 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-022-03134-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Although cross-sectional studies have demonstrated that trans people present with lower quality of life and wellbeing than the general population, few studies have explored the factors associated with this, particularly in those who have medically transitioned some time ago. This paper aims to fill the gap in the literature on what factors are associated with wellbeing in trans people who initiated medical transition some time ago. Methods This study used semi-structured one-to-one interviews with 23 participants to investigate the factors that impact upon the wellbeing of trans people who had initiated Gender Affirming Medical Treatment five or more years ago. The content of the interviews were analysed with an inductive, grounded theory approach to identify common themes within them. Results The four themes identified include some consistencies with cisgender populations (while being viewed through the lens of trans experience), as well as those more specific to the trans experience. Together these themes were: Interactions with healthcare services; Seeking societal acceptance; Quality of social support; The ‘double-edged sword’ of media and social media. Each of the themes identifies a factor that participants highlighted as impacting, either positively or negatively, on their wellbeing. Conclusions The results highlight the importance of social support, protective legislations, awareness of trans issues in the general public, and the need of improving the knowledge held by non-specialist healthcare providers.
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Mendoza C, Poggi H, Flores M, Morales C, Martínez-Aguayo A. Quality of Life in Chilean Transgender Children and Adolescents. Horm Res Paediatr 2022; 94:333-342. [PMID: 34788756 DOI: 10.1159/000520606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Transgender (TG) children and adolescents experience problems in school as well as with family and social relationships that can adversely affect their physical and psychosocial health and impair their quality of life (QoL). This study aimed to assess health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in TG children. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional study comparing HRQoL in gender non-conforming (Trans) and gender-conforming (CIS) children and adolescents using the Spanish version of KIDSCREEN-52 in 120 Chilean Trans and CIS children (aged 8-18 years) and their parents. All scores were standardized according to the KIDSCREEN manual. RESULTS Among the 100 questionnaires answered, 38 corresponded to children and adolescents aged 8.4-18 years. Twenty-one of them were TG (71% trans males) and 17 were CIS (76% females). Sixty-two parents answered the questionnaires: 33 from families of TG children (PTrans) and 29 from families of CIS children (PCis). Trans children had lower HRQoL scores in all domains than CIS children. The lowest-scoring domains for TG children were "Moods and Emotions," "Psychological Well-Being" and "Social Acceptance," and the highest-scoring domain was "School Environment." The PTrans group had significantly higher scores than the Trans group for 3 of the 10 domains: "Psychological Well-Being," "Moods and Emotions," and "Parent Relations and Home Life." CONCLUSION Our results revealed that TG children and adolescents have lower QoL than their CIS counterparts, especially regarding items related to mental health. Furthermore, their parents may underestimate their well-being, confirming the vulnerability of the TG population. This finding underlies the need to perform early assessments of QoL for early detection and intervention in aspects that could deteriorate their quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Mendoza
- Paediatrics Division, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Helena Poggi
- Paediatrics Division, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Cristóbal Morales
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Kearns S, Houghton C, O'Shea D, Neff K. Study protocol: navigating access to gender care in Ireland-a mixed-method study on the experiences of transgender and non-binary youth. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e052030. [PMID: 35292489 PMCID: PMC8928252 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-052030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There has been a global increase in demand for gender-specific healthcare services and a recognition that healthcare access is complex and convoluted, even in countries with well-developed healthcare services. Despite evidence in Ireland supporting the improvement in physical and mental health following access to gender care, little is known about the local healthcare navigation challenges. Internationally, research focuses primarily on the experience of service users and omits the perspective of other potential key stakeholders. Youth experiences are a particularly seldom-heard group. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This study will use a sequential exploratory mixed-methods design with a participatory social justice approach. The qualitative phase will explore factors that help and hinder access to gender care for young people in Ireland. This will be explored from multiple stakeholders' perspectives, namely, young people, caregivers and specialist healthcare providers. Framework analysis will be used to identify priorities for action and the qualitative findings used to build a survey tool for the quantitative phase. The quantitative phase will then measure the burden of the identified factors on healthcare navigation across different age categories and gender identities (transmasculine vs transfeminine vs non-binary). ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study has been approved by St Vincent's Hospital Research Ethics Committee (RS21-019), University College Dublin Ethics Committee (LS-21-14Kearns-OShea) and the Transgender Equality Network Ireland's Internal Ethics Committee (TIECSK). We aim to disseminate the findings through international conferences, peer-review journals and by utilisation of expert panel members and strategic partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seán Kearns
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Catherine Houghton
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Donal O'Shea
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Karl Neff
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Wolford-Clevenger C, Hill SV, Cropsey K. Correlates of Tobacco and Nicotine Use Among Transgender and Gender Diverse People: A Systematic Review Guided by the Minority Stress Model. Nicotine Tob Res 2022; 24:444-452. [PMID: 34375426 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntab159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION ransgender and gender diverse (TGD) people have a higher prevalence of tobacco and nicotine use compared to their cisgender peers. AIMS AND METHODS Using the minority stress model as a guide, we conducted a systematic review of correlates of tobacco and nicotine use among TGD people. We reviewed the literature from Pubmed, PsycINFO, and CINAHL between April 1, 1995 and April 20, 2021. Article inclusion criteria were the following: written in English, reported empirical data, sampled exclusively or reported separate outcomes for transgender/gender diverse people, and reported correlates of tobacco or nicotine use, broadly defined. The first and second authors reviewed the articles retrieved from the search and from gray literature (relevant listserv solicitations) for inclusion. They then reviewed references of any included articles for additional candidate articles.Results: This resulted in 35 articles for review, which were synthesized in a qualitative fashion. The overall quality of the articles was fair, with the articles ranging from poor to fair quality and using primarily cross-sectional design and survey methods. CONCLUSIONS Overall, the literature demonstrated external minority stressors were mostly researched (and supported) correlates of tobacco and nicotine use among TGD people. There is a critical need for higher quality research, such as longitudinal or experimental designs, to improve our understanding and prevention of tobacco and nicotine use in this population. IMPLICATIONS This systematic review used the minority stress model as a guide to understand correlates of tobacco and nicotine use among transgender and gender diverse people. Literature of fair quality demonstrated that external minority stressors were the most researched and supported correlates of tobacco and nicotine use within the framework of the minority stress model. This review demonstrated a critical need for higher quality research, such as longitudinal or experimental designs, to improve our understanding and prevention of tobacco and nicotine use in this population. Preliminary findings from the limited literature highlight factors that may be relevant to target with this population, including general/environmental stressors and external minority stressors such as discrimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin Wolford-Clevenger
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Samantha V Hill
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Adolescent Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Karen Cropsey
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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Abstract
Nephrologists are increasingly providing care to transgender, nonbinary, and gender diverse (TNBGD) individuals with chronic kidney disease. This narrative review discusses the care of TNBGD individuals from a nephrology perspective. TNBGD individuals are under-represented in the nephrology literature. TNBGD individuals are at an increased risk of adverse outcomes compared with the cisgender population including mental health, cardiovascular disease, malignancy, sexually transmitted infections, and mortality. Gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) with estradiol in transfeminine individuals potentially increases the risk of venous thromboembolism and cardiovascular disease. GAHT with testosterone in transmasculine individuals potentially increases the risk of erythrocytosis and requires careful monitoring. GAHT modifies body composition and lean muscle mass, which in turn influence creatinine generation and excretion, which may impact the performance of estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) equations and the estimation of 24-hour urine values from spot urine albumin/protein to creatinine ratios. There are limited studies regarding TNBGD individuals with chronic kidney disease. Additional research is needed to evaluate the effects of GAHT on GFR and biomarkers of kidney function and the performance of the estimated GFR equation in TNBGD populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Collister
- Division of Nephrology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Yonah Krakowsky
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Surgery, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Emery Potter
- Department of Surgery, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Adam C Millar
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Swan J, Phillips TM, Sanders T, Mullens AB, Debattista J, Brömdal A. Mental health and quality of life outcomes of gender-affirming surgery: A systematic literature review. Journal of Gay & Lesbian Mental Health 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/19359705.2021.2016537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Swan
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Faculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences, Centre for Health Research, Institute for Resilient Regions, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, Queensland, Australia
| | - Tania M. Phillips
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Faculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences, Centre for Health Research, Institute for Resilient Regions, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, Queensland, Australia
| | - Tait Sanders
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Faculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences, Centre for Health Research, Institute for Resilient Regions, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, Queensland, Australia
| | - Amy B. Mullens
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Faculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences, Centre for Health Research, Institute for Resilient Regions, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, Queensland, Australia
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, Australia
| | - Joseph Debattista
- Metro North Public Health Unit, Metro North Hospital & Health Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Annette Brömdal
- School of Education, Faculty of Business, Education, Law and Arts, Centre for Health Research, Institute for Resilient Regions, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
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Özer M, Poor Toulabi S, Gijs L, Kreukels BPC, Mullender MG. The assessment of sexual wellbeing in treatment-seeking transgender individuals: a systematic review of the medical literature. Int J Impot Res 2022. [PMID: 35115682 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-022-00529-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Sexual-wellbeing is recognized as an important aspect of quality-of-life. Yet, no overview exists of which aspects of sexual-wellbeing have been assessed in trans individuals seeking or undergoing medical treatment, nor is it clear what tools are used to evaluate the effect of medical treatment on sexual-wellbeing. First, to identify which topics pertaining to sexual-wellbeing have been assessed in transgender individuals in a medical context. Second, to determine which tools have been used for measuring aspects of sexual-wellbeing. A conceptual framework of sexual-wellbeing, was used as reference. A literature search (in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library) was performed up to March 10th, 2020. Studies that assessed aspects of sexual-wellbeing in transgender individuals' medical context were included in this review. Specific sexual topics addressed in each study were extracted by two independent reviewers. Thematic analysis was performed to identify sexual themes. Additionally, tools used to measure topics related to sexuality in transgender individuals were identified. In 172 papers, a total of 178 topics related to sexual-wellbeing were identified. Ten overarching themes were identified; sexuality, enacted sexual script, sexual activities, sexual relations, sexual response cycle, genital function, sexual function, sexual pleasure, sexual satisfaction, and quality-of-sex-life. Functional aspects of sexuality are assessed most frequently. A variety of methods was used to evaluate aspects related to sexual-wellbeing in trans individuals and over 50 different tools were identified. Self-developed questionnaires were used most frequently (n = 80), followed by chart reviews (n = 50), self-developed structured interviews (n = 37) and physical examination (n = 13). 23 previously developed questionnaires were used, all of which were developed for a cisgender population. Many studies in trans individuals touch on topics related to sexual-wellbeing, however, a comprehensive conceptualisation of (10 themes of) sexual-wellbeing is still lacking. Still, no valid tool exists for assessing sexual-wellbeing in the trans population, but is much needed.
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de Graaf NM, Steensma TD, Carmichael P, VanderLaan DP, Aitken M, Cohen-Kettenis PT, de Vries ALC, Kreukels BPC, Wasserman L, Wood H, Zucker KJ. Suicidality in clinic-referred transgender adolescents. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2022; 31:67-83. [PMID: 33165650 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-020-01663-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Gender and sexually diverse adolescents have been reported to be at an elevated risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. For transgender adolescents, there has been variation in source of ascertainment and how suicidality was measured, including the time-frame (e.g., past 6 months, lifetime). In studies of clinic-referred samples of transgender adolescents, none utilized any type of comparison or control group. The present study examined suicidality in transgender adolescents (M age, 15.99 years) seen at specialty clinics in Toronto, Canada, Amsterdam, the Netherlands, and London, UK (total N = 2771). Suicidality was measured using two items from the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and the Youth Self-Report (YSR). The CBCL/YSR referred and non-referred standardization samples from both the U.S. and the Netherlands were used for comparative purposes. Multiple linear regression analyses showed that there was significant between-clinic variation in suicidality on both the CBCL and the YSR; in addition, suicidality was consistently higher among birth-assigned females and strongly associated with degree of general behavioral and emotional problems. Compared to the U.S. and Dutch CBCL/YSR standardization samples, the relative risk of suicidality was somewhat higher than referred adolescents but substantially higher than non-referred adolescents. The results were discussed in relation to both gender identity specific and more general risk factors for suicidality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nastasja M de Graaf
- Gender Identity Development Service, The Tavistock and Portman NHS Trust, London, England
- Department of Medical Psychology, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Thomas D Steensma
- Department of Medical Psychology, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Polly Carmichael
- Gender Identity Development Service, The Tavistock and Portman NHS Trust, London, England
| | - Doug P VanderLaan
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada
- Child and Youth Psychiatry, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Madison Aitken
- Child and Youth Psychiatry, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Peggy T Cohen-Kettenis
- Department of Medical Psychology, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Annelou L C de Vries
- Department of Medical Psychology, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Baudewijntje P C Kreukels
- Department of Medical Psychology, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lori Wasserman
- Reproductive Life Stages Program, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hayley Wood
- Psychological Services, Toronto Board of Education, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kenneth J Zucker
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 250 College St., Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada.
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Özer M, Toulabi SP, Fisher AD, T'Sjoen G, Buncamper ME, Monstrey S, Bizic MR, Djordjevic M, Falcone M, Christopher NA, Simon D, Capitán L, Motmans J. ESSM Position Statement "Sexual Wellbeing After Gender Affirming Surgery". Sex Med 2021; 10:100471. [PMID: 34971864 PMCID: PMC8847816 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2021.100471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Much has been published on the surgical and functional results following Gender Affirming Surgery (‘GAS’) in trans individuals. Comprehensive results regarding sexual wellbeing following GAS, however, are generally lacking. Aim To review the impact of various GAS on sexual wellbeing in treatment seeking trans individuals, and provide a comprehensive list of clinical recommendations regarding the various surgical options of GAS on behalf of the European Society for Sexual Medicine. Methods The Medline, Cochrane Library and Embase databases were reviewed on the results of sexual wellbeing after GAS. Main Outcomes Measure The task force established consensus statements regarding the somatic and general requirements before GAS and of GAS: orchiectomy-only, vaginoplasty, breast augmentation, vocal feminization surgery, facial feminization surgery, mastectomy, removal of the female sexual organs, metaidoioplasty, and phalloplasty. Outcomes pertaining to sexual wellbeing- sexual satisfaction, sexual relationship, sexual response, sexual activity, enacted sexual script, sexuality, sexual function, genital function, quality of sex life and sexual pleasure- are provided for each statement separately. Results The present position paper provides clinicians with statements and recommendations for clinical practice, regarding GAS and their effects on sexual wellbeing in trans individuals. These data, are limited and may not be sufficient to make evidence-based recommendations for every surgical option. Findings regarding sexual wellbeing following GAS were mainly positive. There was no data on sexual wellbeing following orchiectomy-only, vocal feminization surgery, facial feminization surgery or the removal of the female sexual organs. The choice for GAS is dependent on patient preference, anatomy and health status, and the surgeon's skills. Trans individuals may benefit from studies focusing exclusively on the effects of GAS on sexual wellbeing. Conclusion The available evidence suggests positive results regarding sexual wellbeing following GAS. We advise more studies that underline the evidence regarding sexual wellbeing following GAS. This position statement may aid both clinicians and patients in decision-making process regarding the choice for GAS. Özer M, Toulabi SP, Fisher AD, et al. ESSM Position Statement “Sexual Wellbeing After Gender Affirming Surgery”. Sex Med 2022;10:100471.
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Affiliation(s)
- Müjde Özer
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Sahaand Poor Toulabi
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alessandra D Fisher
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology, Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Guy T'Sjoen
- Department of Endocrinology and Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University and Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marlon E Buncamper
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stan Monstrey
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Ghent University and Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marta R Bizic
- Department of Pediatric Urology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Marco Falcone
- Department of Urology, Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Nim A Christopher
- Department of Urology, St Peter's Andrology Centre and The Institute of Urology, London, UK
| | - Daniel Simon
- Facialteam Surgical Group, HC Marbella International Hospital, Marbella, Málaga, Spain
| | - Luis Capitán
- Facialteam Surgical Group, HC Marbella International Hospital, Marbella, Málaga, Spain
| | - Joz Motmans
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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Bray G, Giami A. Prises en charge médicales et psychologiques de la vie sexuelle des femmes trans : revue de la littérature internationale. L'Évolution Psychiatrique 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.evopsy.2021.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Zaliznyak M, Yuan N, Bresee C, Freedman A, Garcia MM. How Early in Life do Transgender Adults Begin to Experience Gender Dysphoria? Why This Matters for Patients, Providers, and for Our Healthcare System. Sex Med 2021; 9:100448. [PMID: 34731778 PMCID: PMC8766261 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2021.100448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The age at which transgender women (TW) and men (TM) first experience gender dysphoria (GD) has not been reported in a U.S. population of adults seeking genital gender-affirming surgery (gGAS). Because gender is an innate part of identity, we hypothesized that untreated GD would be a part of individuals’ earliest memories. Understanding GD onset can help guide providers with when and how to focus care to patients not yet identified as “transgender Aim (i) Determine the age at which transgender adults seeking gGAS first experience GD (ii) Determine the number of life-years that transgender adults spend living with untreated GD Methods During initial consultation for gGAS, we asked patients the earliest age at which they experienced GD and the age at which they had their earliest episodic memory. We also queried history of anxiety, depression, and suicide attempt. Main Outcome Measures Patients self-reported their earliest recollections of experiencing GD, earliest memories in general, and history of anxiety, depression, and suicide attempt. Results Data from 155 TW (mean age 41.3; SD 16.3) and 55 TM (mean age 35.4; SD 10.8) were collected. Most patients (TM: 78%; TW: 73%) reported experiencing GD for the first time between ages 3 and 7 years. For TM the mean age of onset was 6.17 years; for TW it was 6.71 years. A total of 81% of TW and 80% of TM described their first recollection of GD as one of their earliest memories. Mean years of persistent GD before the start of gender transition were 22.9 (TM) and 27.1 (TW). Rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide ideation decreased following gender transition. Conclusion Our findings suggest that GD typically manifests in early childhood and persists untreated for many years before individuals commence gender transition. Diagnosis and early management during childhood and adolescence can improve quality of life and survival. Zaliznyak M, Yuan N, Bresee C, et al. How Early in Life do Transgender Adults Begin to Experience Gender Dysphoria? Why This Matters for Patients, Providers, and for Our Healthcare System. Sex Med 2021;9:100448.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nance Yuan
- Division of Urology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Cedars-Sinai Transgender Surgery and Health Program, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Catherine Bresee
- Biostatistics & Bioinformatics Core, Cedars-Sinai Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Andrew Freedman
- Division of Urology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Maurice M Garcia
- Division of Urology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Cedars-Sinai Transgender Surgery and Health Program, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Urology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Department of Anatomy, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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Pavanello Decaro S, Van Gils S, Van Hoorde B, Baetens K, Heylens G, Elaut E. It Might Take Time: A Study on the Evolution of Quality of Life in Individuals With Gender Incongruence During Gender-Affirming Care. J Sex Med 2021; 18:2045-2055. [PMID: 34666960 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2021.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The distress caused by gender incongruence has been shown to be reduced with gender-affirming care. The current study follows a cohort of patients that requested gender-affirming care at Ghent University Hospital and examines the outcome of the procedures. METHODS The prospective design with 4 assessment times allows the study to assess the evolution of self-reported quality of life (QoL) and gender incongruence throughout a medical transition process. All the participants (N = 119) received hormone therapy, 52% underwent a separate gonadectomy (N = 62), and 41% vaginoplasty or phalloplasty (N = 49). RESULTS The results suggest that gender incongruence improves after surgery. QoL has slightly different trends for the different gender groups: compared to people who were assigned male at birth (AMAB), people who were assigned female at birth (AFAB) report lower QoL after gonadectomy. Meeting other transgender people facilitate QoL after starting hormone therapy. A higher number of friends after genital surgery are predictive of a better QoL. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS These results may be useful for clinicians working with transgender patients, as they provide information collected assessing patients soon after surgery and may raise awareness regarding the specific clinical attention that postsurgery patients need. CONCLUSIONS QoL can be compromised after the invasive surgery, while gender incongruence is alleviated throughout the transition. Our results should be confirmed with other prospective study designs that include a longer follow-up period. Pavanello Decaro S, Van Gils S, Van Hoorde B, et al. It Might Take Time: A Study on the Evolution of Quality of Life in Individuals With Gender Incongruence During Gender-Affirming Care. J Sex Med 2021;18:2045-2055.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Pavanello Decaro
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Psychology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Stien Van Gils
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Birgit Van Hoorde
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kariann Baetens
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Gunter Heylens
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Psychiatry, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Els Elaut
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Experimental-Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
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Arianmehr T, Cheraghi Z, Ahmadpanah M, Mohammadi Y. Quality of life and the related factors in Iranian transgender people: a cross-sectional study. J Public Health (Oxf) 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10389-021-01657-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
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Hall R, Mitchell L, Sachdeva J. Access to care and frequency of detransition among a cohort discharged by a UK national adult gender identity clinic: retrospective case-note review. BJPsych Open 2021; 7:e184. [PMID: 34593070 PMCID: PMC8503911 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2021.1022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND UK adult gender identity clinics (GICs) are implementing a new streamlined service model. However, there is minimal evidence from these services underpinning this. It is also unknown how many service users subsequently 'detransition'. AIMS To describe service users' access to care and patterns of service use, specifically, interventions accessed, reasons for discharge and re-referrals; to identify factors associated with access; and to quantify 'detransitioning'. METHOD A retrospective case-note review was performed as a service evaluation for 175 service users consecutively discharged by a tertiary National Health Service adult GIC between 1 September 2017 and 31 August 2018. Descriptive statistics were used for rates of accessing interventions sought, reasons for discharge, re-referral and frequency of detransitioning. Using multivariate analysis, we sought associations between several variables and 'accessing care' or 'other outcome'. RESULTS The treatment pathway was completed by 56.1%. All interventions initially sought were accessed by 58%; 94% accessed hormones but only 47.7% accessed gender reassignment surgery; 21.7% disengaged; and 19.4% were re-referred. Multivariate analysis identified coexisting neurodevelopmental disorders (odds ratio [OR] = 5.7, 95% CI = 1.7-19), previous adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) per reported ACE (OR = 1.5, 95% CI = 1.1-1.9), substance misuse during treatment (OR = 4.3, 95% CI = 1.1-17.6) and mental health concerns during treatment (OR = 2.2, 95% CI 1.1-4.4) as independently associated with accessing care. Twelve people (6.9%) met our case definition of detransitioning. CONCLUSIONS Service users may have unmet needs. Neurodevelopmental disorders or ACEs suggest complexity requiring consideration during the assessment process. Managing mental ill health and substance misuse during treatment needs optimising. Detransitioning might be more frequent than previously reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Hall
- Devon Partnership Trust, UK
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de Brouwer IJ, Elaut E, Becker-Hebly I, Heylens G, Nieder TO, van de Grift TC, Kreukels BPC. Aftercare Needs Following Gender-Affirming Surgeries: Findings From the ENIGI Multicenter European Follow-Up Study. J Sex Med 2021; 18:1921-1932. [PMID: 37057483 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2021.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While much emphasis has been put on the evaluation of gender-affirming surgery (GAS) approaches and their effectiveness, little is known about the health care needs after completion of these interventions. AIM To assess post-GAS aftercare needs using a mixed-method approach and relate these to participant characteristics. METHODS As part of the ENIGI follow-up study, data was collected 5 years after first contact for gender-affirming treatments in 3 large European clinics. For the current analyses, only participants that had received GAS were included. Data on sociodemographic and clinical characteristics was collected. Standard aftercare protocols were followed. The study focused on participants' aftercare experiences. Participants rated whether they (had) experienced (predefined) aftercare needs and further elaborated in 2 open-ended questions. Frequencies of aftercare needs were analyzed and associated with participant characteristics via binary logistic regression. Answers to the open-ended questions were categorized through thematic analysis. OUTCOMES Aftercare needs transgender individuals (had) experienced after receiving GAS and the relation to sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. RESULTS Of the 543 individuals that were invited for the ENIGI follow-up study, a total of 260 individuals were included (122 (trans) masculine, 119 (trans) feminine, 16 other, 3 missing). The most frequently mentioned aftercare need was (additional) assistance in surgical recovery (47%), followed by consultations with a mental health professional (36%) and physiotherapy for the pelvic floor (20%). The need for assistance in surgical recovery was associated with more psychological symptoms (OR=1.65), having undergone genital surgery (OR=2.55) and lower surgical satisfaction (OR=0.61). The need for consultation with a mental health professional was associated with more psychological symptoms and lower surgical satisfaction. The need for pelvic floor therapy was associated with more psychological symptoms as well as with having undergone genital surgery. Thematic analysis revealed 4 domains regarding aftercare optimization: provision of care, additional mental health care, improvement of organization of care and surgical technical care. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Deeper understanding of post-GAS aftercare needs and associated individual characteristics informs health care providers which gaps are experienced and therefore should be addressed in aftercare. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS We provided first evidence on aftercare needs of transgender individuals after receiving GAS and associated these with participant characteristics in a large multicenter clinical cohort. No standardized data on aftercare received was collected, therefore the expressed aftercare needs cannot be compared with received aftercare. CONCLUSION These results underline a widely experienced desire for aftercare and specify the personalized needs it should entail. IJ de Brouwer, E Elaut, I Becker-Hebly et al. Aftercare Needs Following Gender-Affirming Surgeries: Findings From the ENIGI Multicenter European Follow-Up Study. J Sex Med 2021;18:1921-1932.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris J de Brouwer
- Amsterdam University Medical Center (location VUmc), Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam University Medical Center (location VUmc), Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Els Elaut
- University Hospital Ghent, Center of Sexology and Gender, Ghent, Belgium; Ghent University, Department of Experimental-Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Inga Becker-Hebly
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gunter Heylens
- University Hospital Ghent, Center of Sexology and Gender, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Timo O Nieder
- Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tim C van de Grift
- Amsterdam University Medical Center (location VUmc), Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam University Medical Center (location VUmc), Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Baudewijntje P C Kreukels
- Amsterdam University Medical Center (location VUmc), Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Brownstone LM, DeRieux J, Kelly DA, Sumlin LJ, Gaudiani JL. Body Mass Index Requirements for Gender-Affirming Surgeries Are Not Empirically Based. Transgend Health 2021; 6:121-124. [PMID: 34414267 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2020.0068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Body mass index (BMI) requirements for gender affirmation surgery (GAS) are ubiquitous and vary across providers. Requirement variation is not surprising given little data to suggest an association between BMI and GAS outcomes. Implementation of subjective BMI requirements limits access to GAS and negatively impacts patient health and safety. We outline the literature on BMI and GAS outcomes, discuss clinical utility of GAS, and summarize dangers of prescribing weight loss as a prerequisite for surgery. We propose that providers use empirically supported indices of health and comorbidity instead of BMI to determine surgical eligibility for all patients considering GAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Brownstone
- Counseling Psychology, University of Denver, Morgridge College of Education, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Jaclyn DeRieux
- Department of Surgery, Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital, Santa Barbara, California, USA
| | - Devin A Kelly
- Counseling Psychology, University of Denver, Morgridge College of Education, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Lanie J Sumlin
- Eating Disorder Care, Denver, Colorado, USA.,School of Education and Human Development, Counseling Psychology and Counselor Education, University of Colorado, Denver, Colorado, USA
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Gümüşsoy S, Hortu İ, Alp Dal N, Dönmez S, Ergenoğlu AM. Quality of Life and Perceived Social Support Before and After Sex Reassignment Surgery. Clin Nurs Res 2021; 31:481-488. [PMID: 34409884 DOI: 10.1177/10547738211040636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the pre- and postoperative differences in quality of life and perceived social support of Female-to-Male transsexual patients who underwent mastectomy and complete hysterectomy. Sixty-three Female-to-Male female individuals who underwent complete hysterectomy and mastectomy between November 2019 and November 2020 were included in this study. Data were collected using the Personal Information Form, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale Short Form. The pre- and postoperative perceived social support mean scores of patients were 57.2 ± 9.0 and 74.9 ± 7.3, respectively. The pre- and postoperative quality of life mean scores of patients were 76.9 ± 8.3 and 107.8 ± 10.1, respectively. There were statistically significant differences between the measurements (p < .05). In addition, the patients whose education level was primary school, whose income was less than their expenditure, whose father was a primary school graduate, whose family had a strict family opinion on sexuality, whose family had a traditional view, and who had a high body mass index were found to have higher postoperative social support perceptions and quality of life. The patients' postoperative quality of life and perceived social support improved after sex reassignment surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Süreyya Gümüşsoy
- Ege University Atatürk Health Care Vocational School, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - İsmet Hortu
- Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Nursel Alp Dal
- Munzur University Faculty of Health Sciences, Aktuluk, Tunceli, Turkey
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