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Glodowski MB, Parra CM, Xin MK, Fino ME. Reproductive Considerations in the Transgender and Gender Diverse Population: A Review. Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am 2024; 53:471-482. [PMID: 39084820 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecl.2024.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Many transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals will be considering gender-affirming treatments during their reproductive lifespan. These medically necessary treatments have a negative impact on reproductive potential. All TGD individuals should be counseled regarding fertility. Options for fertility preservation for individuals who have undergone puberty include mature oocyte, embryo, and sperm cryopreservation. In prepubertal individuals, ovarian tissue cryopreservation may be considered, but testicular tissue cryopreservation remains experimental only. While there have been advances in the technology and standardization of reproductive health care for this population, many gaps remain in our knowledge which require further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele B Glodowski
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, New York University Langone Health, 111 Broadway, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10006, USA.
| | - Carlos M Parra
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, New York University Langone Prelude Fertility Center, 159 East 53rd Street, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10022, USA
| | - Madeline K Xin
- NYU Grossman School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Mary Elizabeth Fino
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, New York University Langone Prelude Fertility Center, 159 East 53rd Street, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10022, USA
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Falck FAOK, Dhejne CMU, Frisén LMM, Armuand GM. Subjective Experiences of Pregnancy, Delivery, and Nursing in Transgender Men and Non-Binary Individuals: A Qualitative Analysis of Gender and Mental Health Concerns. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2024; 53:1981-2002. [PMID: 38228983 PMCID: PMC11106200 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02787-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Studies of how gender-diverse individuals experience pregnancy, childbirth, and nursing remain few, mainly focus on the US and contain scarce information about mental health concerns peri-partum. This hinders informed reproductive health decisions and counseling. We used in-depth interviews to examine how gestational gender-diverse individuals in Sweden experience the process of planning and undergoing pregnancy, delivery, and nursing. In total, 12 participants, identifying on the masculine side of the gender spectrum or as non-binary, who had attended Swedish antenatal care and delivered a live birth, were included in the study. Data were analyzed using qualitative thematic content analysis. The analysis resulted in one overarching theme: sustaining gender congruence during pregnancy and three main categories: (1) considering pregnancy; (2) undergoing pregnancy and childbirth; and (3) postnatal reflections. The association between childbearing and being regarded as female permeated narratives. Participants renegotiated the feminine connotations of pregnancy, accessed gender-affirming treatment, and concealed their pregnancy to safeguard their gender congruence. Mis-gendering and breast enlargement triggered gender dysphoria. Social judgment, loneliness, information shortages, hormonal influence and cessation of testosterone increased gender dysphoria and strained their mental health. Depression exacerbated gender dysphoria and made it harder to claim one's gender identity. Dissociation was used to handle a feminized body, vaginal delivery, and nursing. Pregnancy was easier to envision and handle after masculinizing gender-affirming treatments. The results deepen the understanding of gender dysphoria and may be used to inform reproductive counseling and healthcare development. Research outcomes on mental health concerns provide a basis for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicitas A O K Falck
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
- ANOVA, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 76, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Psychiatry Southwest, Karolinska University Hospital in Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Cecilia M U Dhejne
- ANOVA, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 76, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine, Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Louise M M Frisén
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gabriela M Armuand
- School of Health and Welfare, Faculty of Health Sciences 1, Dalarna University, Falun, Sweden
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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] [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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Seiger KW, McNamara B, Berrahou IK. Gynecologic Care for Sexual and Gender Minority Patients. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am 2024; 51:17-41. [PMID: 38267126 DOI: 10.1016/j.ogc.2023.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Sexual and gender minority (SGM) people, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals, are a diverse population with a wide spectrum of gynecologic needs. Institutionalized cisheteronormativity, stigmatization, lack of provider training, and fear of discrimination contribute to health disparities in this patient population. In this article, we review key topics in the gynecologic care of SGM patients and provide strategies to enable gynecologists to provide SGM people with equitable and inclusive full spectrum reproductive health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyra W Seiger
- Yale University School of Medicine, 367 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Blair McNamara
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Iman K Berrahou
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, PO Box 208063, Suite 302 FMB, New Haven, CT 06520-806, USA.
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White J, Jackson A, Druce I, Gale J. Oocyte cryopreservation and reciprocal in vitro fertilization in a transgender man on long term testosterone gender-affirming hormone therapy: a case report. F S Rep 2024; 5:111-113. [PMID: 38524208 PMCID: PMC10958692 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfre.2023.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To report a successful case of oocyte cryopreservation and subsequent in vitro fertilization (IVF) in a transgender male receiving continued testosterone gender-affirming hormone therapy, followed by reciprocal embryo transfer (ET). Design A case report of a rare case of fertility preservation in a transgender man with concomitant use of testosterone therapy for 4 years before and during ovarian stimulation. Setting Private fertility clinic with university affiliation. Patients A 26-year-old transgender man undergoing oocyte cryopreservation before gender-affirming surgery. Interventions Fertility preservation using oocyte cryopreservation and IVF with reciprocal fresh ET into a cisfemale partner. Main Outcome Measures Successful oocyte cryopreservation, oocyte thawing, and reciprocal IVF cycle. Results Oocyte cryopreservation of 29 mature oocytes. Sixteen mature oocytes survived the thaw, and 12 were fertilized with intracytoplasmic sperm injection. A fresh ET of an advanced blastocyst resulted in a clinical pregnancy and live birth. Conclusions Fertility preservation with oocyte cryopreservation or IVF with embryo cryopreservation is feasible for patients on continued long-term testosterone gender-affirming therapy. Future studies on egg quality and reproductive outcomes are required. Our case report demonstrates a promising outcome in this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin White
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Ottawa Fertilty Centre, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Aaron Jackson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Ottawa Fertilty Centre, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Irena Druce
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jenna Gale
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Ottawa Fertilty Centre, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Thompson HM, Rusie LK, Schneider JA, Mehta SD. Bacterial vaginosis testing gaps for transmasculine patients may exacerbate health disparities. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2024; 6:1344111. [PMID: 38449898 PMCID: PMC10916334 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2024.1344111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is associated with non-optimal changes in the vaginal microbiome and increased susceptibility to STIs and HIV in cisgender women. Much less is known about the sexual health of transmasculine people and susceptibility to BV, STIs, and HIV. This study's objective was to assess BV testing and outcomes of transmasculine and cisgender women patient populations at a large, LGBTQ + federally qualified health center. Methods Retrospective electronic health record data were extracted for eligible patients having at least one primary care visit between January 1, 2021, and December 31, 2021. Transmasculine patients were limited to those with a testosterone prescription in 2021. We conducted log binomial regression analysis to determine the probability of receiving a BV test based on gender identity, adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics. Results During 2021, 4,903 cisgender women patients and 1,867 transmasculine patients had at least one primary care visit. Compared to cisgender women, transmasculine patients were disproportionately young, White, queer, privately insured, living outside Chicago, and had a lower rate of BV testing (1.9% v. 17.3%, p < 0.001). Controlling for sociodemographics, transmasculine patients were less likely to receive a BV test [Prevalence Ratio = 0.19 (95% CI 0.13-0.27)]. Discussion The low rate of BV testing among transmasculine patients may contribute to disparities in reproductive health outcomes. Prospective community- and provider-engaged research is needed to better understand the multifactorial determinants for sexual healthcare and gender-affirming care for transmasculine patients. In particular, the impact of exogenous testosterone on the vaginal microbiome should also be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hale M. Thompson
- Center for Education, Research & Advocacy, Howard Brown Health, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Laura K. Rusie
- Center for Education, Research & Advocacy, Howard Brown Health, Chicago, IL, United States
- Division of Infectious Disease Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - John A. Schneider
- Center for Education, Research & Advocacy, Howard Brown Health, Chicago, IL, United States
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Department of Infectious Disease, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Supriya D. Mehta
- Division of Infectious Disease Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States
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Ghofranian A, Estevez SL, Gellman C, Gounko D, Lee JA, Thornton K, Copperman AB. Fertility treatment outcomes in transgender men with a history of testosterone therapy. F S Rep 2023; 4:367-374. [PMID: 38204952 PMCID: PMC10774903 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfre.2023.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To evaluate fertility treatment outcomes among transgender (TG) men with a history of gender-affirming hormone therapy with exogenous testosterone. Design Descriptive, retrospective cohort study. Patients Transgender men with a history of gender-affirming hormone therapy with exogenous testosterone underwent fertility treatments, including embryo cryopreservation, in vitro fertilization (IVF), co-IVF, oocyte cryopreservation, and intrauterine insemination (IUI), between 2013 and 2021. Intervention Gender-affirming hormone therapy with testosterone. Main Outcome Measures Live births (LBs), number of frozen embryos, and number of frozen oocytes. Other outcome measures included total gonadotropin used, peak estradiol levels, oocytes retrieved, oocyte maturity rate, fertilization rate, and embryo grade. Results A total of 77 TG men self-presented or were referred to care at a single academic fertility center, of which 46 (59.7%) TG men underwent fertility preservation and/or family-building counseling, with 16 (20.8%) patients proceeding to fertility treatment. Of those patients who underwent treatment, 11 (68.8%) had a history of gender-affirming hormone therapy with exogenous testosterone use. Cohort 1 included IVF (n = 1), co-IVF (n = 1), embryo cryopreservation (n = 2), cohort 2 included oocyte cryopreservation (n = 4), and cohort 3 included IUI (n = 3). In cohort 1, both the patients who underwent IVF and the patients who underwent co-IVF achieved LBs. All embryo cryopreservation cycles froze three or more embryos. In cohort 2, the average number of frozen mature oocytes was 19.3 ± 16.2 (range 6-43). All patients who underwent IUI cycles achieved LB. Conclusion In this study, no correlation existed between patient age, time on or off gender-affirming hormone therapy with exogenous testosterone, total gonadotropin used, and number of oocytes retrieved. All patients who completed IVF or embryo cryopreservation produced high-quality blastocytes, and this is the first study to show successful IUI cycles in patients with a history of gender-affirming hormone therapy with exogenous testosterone. This study demonstrates that TG men who have used gender-affirming hormone therapy previously can successfully undergo fertility treatments to attain oocyte and embryo cryopreservation, pregnancy, and LBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atoosa Ghofranian
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
- Reproductive Medicine Associates of New York, New York, New York
| | - Samantha L. Estevez
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
- Reproductive Medicine Associates of New York, New York, New York
| | - Caroline Gellman
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Dmitry Gounko
- Reproductive Medicine Associates of New York, New York, New York
| | - Joseph A. Lee
- Reproductive Medicine Associates of New York, New York, New York
| | - Kimberly Thornton
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
- Reproductive Medicine Associates of New York, New York, New York
| | - Alan B. Copperman
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
- Reproductive Medicine Associates of New York, New York, New York
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Moustakli E, Tsonis O. Exploring Hormone Therapy Effects on Reproduction and Health in Transgender Individuals. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:2094. [PMID: 38138197 PMCID: PMC10744413 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59122094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Transgender individuals often face elevated mental health challenges due to gender dysphoria, but gender-affirming treatments such as surgery and hormone therapy have been linked to significant improvements in mental well-being. The potential influence of time and circadian rhythms on these treatments is prevalent. The intricate interplay between hormones, clock genes, and fertility is profound, acknowledging the complexity of reproductive health in transgender individuals. Furthermore, risks associated with gender-affirming hormonal therapy and potential complications of puberty suppression emphasize the importance of ongoing surveillance for these patients and the need of fertility preservation and family-building options for transgender individuals. This narrative review delves into the intricate landscape of hormone therapy for transgender individuals, shedding light on its impact on bone, cardiovascular, and overall health. It explores how hormone therapy affects bone maintenance and cardiovascular risk factors, outlining the complex interplay of testosterone and estrogen. It also underscores the necessity for further research, especially regarding the long-term effects of transgender hormones. This project emphasizes the critical role of healthcare providers, particularly obstetricians and gynecologists, in providing affirming care, calling for comprehensive understanding and integration of transgender treatments. This review will contribute to a better understanding of the impact of hormone therapy on reproductive health and overall well-being in transgender individuals. It will provide valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and transgender individuals themselves, informing decision-making regarding hormone therapy and fertility preservation options. Additionally, by identifying research gaps, this review will guide future studies to address the evolving healthcare needs of transgender individuals. This project represents a critical step toward addressing the complex healthcare needs of this population. By synthesizing existing knowledge and highlighting areas for further investigation, this review aims to improve the quality of care and support provided to transgender individuals, ultimately enhancing their reproductive health and overall well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efthalia Moustakli
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - Orestis Tsonis
- Fertility Preservation Service, Assisted Conception Unit, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London SE1 9RT, UK
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Chabbert-Buffet N, Sermondade N, Moreau E, Cristofari S, Johnson N, Mathieu d'Argent E, Levy R, Dupont C. [Transition, fertility and options for preservation of fertility]. ANN CHIR PLAST ESTH 2023; 68:484-490. [PMID: 37423825 DOI: 10.1016/j.anplas.2023.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Oftentimes ignored or infrequently expressed, some transgender persons harbor a desire for parenthood. Given the evolution of medical techniques and the enacting of legislative reforms, it is henceforth possible to propose fertility preservation strategies in the overall context of gender transidentity. During the "female to male" (FtM) transition pathway, androgen therapy has an impact on gonadic function, generally inducing blockage of the ovarian function, with amenorrhea. Even though these events may be reversed on cessation of treatment, the possible long-term effects on future fertility and on the health of children yet to be born are little known. Moreover, transition surgeries definitively compromise the possibility of pregnancy insofar as they involve bilateral adnexectomy and/or hysterectomy. Options for fertility preservation in the framework of FtM transition are premised on cryopreservation of oocytes and/or ovarian tissue. In a comparable manner, even though relevant documentation is lacking, hormonal treatments for persons transitioning from male to female (MtF) can have an impact on future fertility. In the event of surgery involving bilateral orchidectomy in which spermatozoid cryopreservation has not been carried out, fertility is definitively impossible. In both cases and under present-day legislation, numerous legal and regulatory barriers render highly problematic the reutilization of cryopreserved gametes. Given these different constraints, it is indispensable to closely supervise these types of treatment by proposing psychological support.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Chabbert-Buffet
- Centre de fertilité Tenon, hôpital Tenon, Sorbonne université, AP-HP, Paris, France.
| | - N Sermondade
- Centre de fertilité Tenon, hôpital Tenon, Sorbonne université, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - E Moreau
- Centre de fertilité Tenon, hôpital Tenon, Sorbonne université, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - S Cristofari
- Centre de fertilité Tenon, hôpital Tenon, Sorbonne université, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - N Johnson
- Centre de fertilité Tenon, hôpital Tenon, Sorbonne université, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - E Mathieu d'Argent
- Centre de fertilité Tenon, hôpital Tenon, Sorbonne université, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - R Levy
- Centre de fertilité Tenon, hôpital Tenon, Sorbonne université, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - C Dupont
- Centre de fertilité Tenon, hôpital Tenon, Sorbonne université, AP-HP, Paris, France
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Dela Cruz C, Wandoff A, Brunette M, Padmanabhan V, Shikanov A, Moravek MB. In vitro fertilization outcomes in a mouse model of gender-affirming hormone therapy in transmasculine youth. F&S SCIENCE 2023; 4:302-310. [PMID: 37579932 PMCID: PMC10841328 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2023.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes in an adolescent transmasculine mouse model mimicking gender-affirming hormone therapy in prepubertal youth, both on testosterone (T) and after T washout. DESIGN Experimental laboratory study using a validated mouse model. SETTING University-based basic science research laboratory. ANIMAL(S) A total of 80 prepubertal 26-day-old C57BL/6N female mice were used in this study. INTERVENTION(S) Animals (n = 10/group) were implanted subcutaneously with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist at 3.6 mg or received sham surgery. After 21 days, they were implanted with silastic tubing containing either T 10 mg or placebo for 6 weeks. After 6 weeks, a group of animals were superovulated for immediate IVF, and another group had the implant removed and went through superovulation for IVF after 2 weeks (washout IVF). The total number of oocytes yielded, oocyte maturity rate, fertilization rate, and numbers of 2-cell embryos, 4-8-cell embryos, morula, blastocysts, and hatching blastocysts were recorded. RESULT(S) Testosterone treatment negatively impacted IVF outcomes in animals stimulated when receiving T, but not after T washout. Pretreatment with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist did not affect IVF outcomes. CONCLUSION(S) Although current T had a negative impact on IVF outcomes compared with controls, animals were still able to produce viable oocytes for fertilization and develop into blastocysts. Future efforts to study the impact of long-term T exposure on oocyte quality, especially aneuploidy rates, pregnancy outcomes, and live birth rates, are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia Dela Cruz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Postdoctoral Translational Scholar Program, Michigan Institute for Clinical and Health Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Abigail Wandoff
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Margaret Brunette
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Department of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Ariella Shikanov
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Molly B Moravek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
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Barrero JA, Mockus I. Preservation of Fertility in Transgender Men on Long-Term Testosterone Therapy: A Systematic Review of Oocyte Retrieval Outcomes During and After Exogenous Androgen Exposure. Transgend Health 2023; 8:408-419. [PMID: 37810944 PMCID: PMC10551752 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2022.0023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Testosterone therapy prompts the development of male secondary sexual characteristics coupled with numerous physiological changes; however, the effect of prolonged androgen exposure on transgender men's fertility remains to be fully elucidated. Multiple clinical consensuses advise assisted reproduction before hormone treatment and state that fertility preservation following androgen therapy entails the suspension of testosterone administration. Although the desire for reproduction among transgender men is prevalent, the discontinuation of gender-affirming hormone therapy poses a major challenge due to the anxiety, unease, and gender dysphoria that follow androgen withdrawal. The present investigation aimed to explore the feasibility and outcomes of oocyte retrieval in adult transgender men undergoing testosterone administration before or during fertility preservation. Seven case reports, four cohort studies, and two cross-sectional studies were identified following a systematic literature search on the PubMed/Ovid MEDLINE, Scopus, and ScienceDirect databases. The findings gathered in this review disclose the viability of oocyte retrieval after prolonged androgen exposure and suggest the absence of a direct relationship between the duration of testosterone suspension and fertility preservation outcomes. Although the reports are limited, recent evidence shows that continuous testosterone administration and the use of aromatase inhibitors during ovarian stimulation could potentially reduce the distressing effects of hormonal ovulation induction. New approaches to fertility preservation in transgender men must be further explored to ensure interventions aligned both with the reproductive desire and avoidance of gender dysphoria exacerbation that follow hormone therapy suspension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge A. Barrero
- Lipids and Diabetes Division, Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Ismena Mockus
- Lipids and Diabetes Division, Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
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12
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Schwartz AR, Xu M, Henderson NC, Dela Cruz C, Pfau D, Padmanabhan V, Shikanov A, Moravek MB. Impaired in vitro fertilization outcomes following testosterone treatment improve with washout in a mouse model of gender-affirming hormone treatment. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2023; 229:419.e1-419.e10. [PMID: 37453652 PMCID: PMC10654792 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impact of gender-affirming testosterone on fertility is poorly understood, with ovarian histopathologic studies showing variable results, some with a detrimental effect on reproductive capacity and uncertain reversibility. Assisted reproductive outcome data are restricted to small case series that lack the ability to inform clinical practice guidelines and limit fertility preservation counseling for transgender and nonbinary individuals. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine the impact of current testosterone and testosterone washout on in vitro fertilization outcomes in a mouse model for gender-affirming hormone treatment. We hypothesized that current or previous testosterone treatment would not affect in vitro fertilization outcomes. STUDY DESIGN C57BL/6N female mice (n=120) were assigned to 4 treatment groups: (1) current control, (2) current testosterone, (3) control washout, and (4) testosterone washout. Testosterone implants remained in situ for 6 or 12 weeks, representing the short- and long-term treatment arms, respectively. Current treatment groups underwent ovarian stimulation with implants in place, and washout treatment groups were explanted and had ovarian stimulation after 2 weeks. Oocytes were collected, fertilized, and cultured in vitro, with one arm continuing to the blastocyst stage and the other having transfer of cleavage-stage embryos. Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism, version 9.0 and R statistical software, version 4.1.2, with statistical significance defined by P<.05. RESULTS Current long-term testosterone treatment impaired in vitro fertilization outcomes, with fewer mature oocytes retrieved (13.7±5.1 [standard deviation] vs 28.6±7.8 [standard deviation]; P<.0001) leading to fewer cleavage-stage embryos (12.1±5.1 vs 26.5±8.2; P<.0001) and blastocysts (10.0±3.2 vs 25.0±6.5; P<.0001). There was recovery of in vitro fertilization outcomes following washout in the short-term treatment cohort, with incomplete reversibility in the long-term cohort. Testosterone did not negatively affect maturity, fertilization, or blastulation rates. CONCLUSION In a mouse model of gender-affirming hormone treatment, testosterone negatively affected oocyte yield without affecting oocyte quality. Our findings suggest that testosterone reversibility is duration-dependent. These results demonstrate the feasibility of in vitro fertilization without testosterone discontinuation while supporting a washout period for optimization of mature oocyte yield.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda R Schwartz
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI.
| | - Min Xu
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Nicholas C Henderson
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Cynthia Dela Cruz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Daniel Pfau
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | | | - Ariella Shikanov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Molly B Moravek
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
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13
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Quaas AM. Patient au-T-onomy. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2023; 229:359-360. [PMID: 37612218 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.07.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander M Quaas
- Division of Reproductive Medicine and Gynecological Endocrinology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Shady Grove Fertility Center, San Diego, CA.
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14
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Asseler JD, Knieriem J, Huirne JA, Goddijn M, Verhoeven MO, van Mello NM. Outcomes of oocyte vitrification in trans masculine individuals. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 47:94-101. [PMID: 37095040 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What are the outcomes and experiences of oocyte vitrification treatment in trans masculine individuals (TMI) before and after testosterone use? DESIGN This retrospective cohort study was conducted at the Amsterdam UMC in the Netherlands between January 2017 and June 2021. The TMI who had completed an oocyte vitrification treatment were consecutively approached for participation. Informed consent was provided by 24 individuals. Participants (n = 7) who initiated testosterone therapy were advised to stop 3 months before stimulation. Demographic characteristics and oocyte vitrification treatment data were retrieved from medical records. Evaluation of the treatment was collected via an online questionnaire. RESULTS The median age of participants was 22.3 years (interquartile range 21.1-26.0) and mean body mass index was 23.0 kg/m2 (SD 3.2). After ovarian hyperstimulation, a mean of 20 oocytes (SD 7) were retrieved and a mean of 17 oocytes (SD 6) could be vitrified. Aside from a lower cumulative FSH dose, there were no significant differences between the prior testosterone users and testosterone naïve TMI. The overall satisfaction of oocyte vitrification treatment in participants was high. Hormone injections were considered the most strenuous part of treatment by 29% of participants, closely followed by oocyte retrieval (25%). CONCLUSIONS No difference in response to ovarian stimulation was found for oocyte vitrification treatment between the prior testosterone users and testosterone naïve TMI. The questionnaire identified hormone injections as the most burdensome aspect of oocyte vitrification treatment. This information can be used to improve gender sensitive fertility counselling and fertility treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce D Asseler
- Amsterdam UMC, location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.; Amsterdam UMC, Centre of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development research institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands..
| | - Julie Knieriem
- Amsterdam UMC, location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Judith Af Huirne
- Amsterdam UMC, location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development research institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mariette Goddijn
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development research institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marieke O Verhoeven
- Amsterdam UMC, location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development research institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Norah M van Mello
- Amsterdam UMC, location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.; Amsterdam UMC, Centre of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development research institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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15
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Reckhow J, Kula H, Babayev S. Fertility preservation options for transgender and nonbinary individuals. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2023; 14:20420188231178371. [PMID: 37323161 PMCID: PMC10265329 DOI: 10.1177/20420188231178371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Transgender and nonbinary individuals are historically underserved by healthcare systems. A crucial area for improvement is fertility preservation counseling and service delivery, as gender-affirming hormone therapy and gender-affirming surgery may negatively affect future fertility. The methods available for fertility preservation depend on the patient's pubertal status and utilization of gender-affirming therapies, and counseling and delivery of these services are complex and require a multidisciplinary approach. Further research is needed to identify pertinent stakeholders in managing the care of these patients, as well as to better understand the optimal frameworks for delivering integrated and comprehensive care to this patient population. Fertility preservation is an active and exciting area of scientific discovery and offers a wealth of opportunities to improve the care of transgender and nonbinary individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hakan Kula
- Obstetrics & Gynecology, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Samir Babayev
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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16
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Kinnear HM, Hashim PH, Dela Cruz C, Chang AL, Rubenstein G, Nimmagadda L, Ramamoorthi Elangovan V, Jones A, Brunette MA, Hannum DF, Li JZ, Padmanabhan V, Moravek MB, Shikanov A. Presence of ovarian stromal aberrations after cessation of testosterone therapy in a transgender mouse model†. Biol Reprod 2023; 108:802-813. [PMID: 36790125 PMCID: PMC10183359 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Some transmasculine individuals may be interested in pausing gender-affirming testosterone therapy and carrying a pregnancy. The ovarian impact of taking and pausing testosterone is not completely understood. The objective of this study was to utilize a mouse model mimicking transmasculine testosterone therapy to characterize the ovarian dynamics following testosterone cessation. We injected postpubertal 9-10-week-old female C57BL/6N mice once weekly with 0.9 mg of testosterone enanthate or a vehicle control for 6 weeks. All testosterone-treated mice stopped cycling and demonstrated persistent diestrus within 1 week of starting testosterone, while control mice cycled regularly. After 6 weeks of testosterone therapy, one group of testosterone-treated mice and age-matched vehicle-treated diestrus controls were sacrificed. Another group of testosterone-treated mice were maintained after stopping testosterone therapy and were sacrificed in diestrus four cycles after the resumption of cyclicity along with age-matched vehicle-treated controls. Ovarian histological analysis revealed stromal changes with clusters of large round cells in the post testosterone group as compared to both age-matched controls and mice at 6 weeks on testosterone. These clusters exhibited periodic acid-Schiff staining, which has been previously reported in multinucleated macrophages in aging mouse ovaries. Notably, many of these cells also demonstrated positive staining for macrophage markers CD68 and CD11b. Ovarian ribonucleic acid-sequencing found upregulation of immune pathways post testosterone as compared to age-matched controls and ovaries at 6 weeks on testosterone. Although functional significance remains unknown, further attention to the ovarian stroma may be relevant for transmasculine people interested in pausing testosterone to carry a pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadrian M Kinnear
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Prianka H Hashim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Cynthia Dela Cruz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Alexis L Chang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Gillian Rubenstein
- Women’s and Gender Studies Department, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Likitha Nimmagadda
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Andrea Jones
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Margaret A Brunette
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - D Ford Hannum
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jun Z Li
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Molly B Moravek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Ariella Shikanov
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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17
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Chen L, Dong Z, Chen X. Fertility preservation in pediatric healthcare: a review. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1147898. [PMID: 37206440 PMCID: PMC10189781 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1147898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Survival rates for children and adolescents diagnosed with malignancy have been steadily increasing due to advances in oncology treatments. These treatments can have a toxic effect on the gonads. Currently, oocyte and sperm cryopreservation are recognized as well-established and successful strategies for fertility preservation for pubertal patients, while the use of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists for ovarian protection is controversial. For prepubertal girls, ovarian tissue cryopreservation is the sole option. However, the endocrinological and reproductive outcomes after ovarian tissue transplantation are highly heterogeneous. On the other hand, immature testicular tissue cryopreservation remains the only alternative for prepubertal boys, yet it is still experimental. Although there are several published guidelines for navigating fertility preservation for pediatric and adolescent patients as well as transgender populations, it is still restricted in clinical practice. This review aims to discuss the indications and clinical outcomes of fertility preservation. We also discuss the probably effective and efficient workflow to facilitate fertility preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Chen
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zirui Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaoyan Chen
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine Institute, Shenzhen Baoan Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- The Fertility Preservation Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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18
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Conflitti AC, Spaziani M, Pallotti F, Tarsitano MG, Di Nisio A, Paoli D, Lombardo F. Update on bioethical, medical and fertility issues in gender incongruence during transition age. J Endocrinol Invest 2023:10.1007/s40618-023-02077-5. [PMID: 37071372 PMCID: PMC10371879 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-023-02077-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Many issues still remain unresolved in the management of pubertal patients with gender incongruence (GI). The aim of this review is to discuss the main aspects of the treatment of these patients to provide a practical approach for clinicians. METHODS A comprehensive literature search within PubMed was performed to provide updates of available evidence regarding the impact on bioethical, medical and fertility issues in gender incongruence during transition age. RESULTS Gender Affirming Hormone Treatment (GAHT) and Gender Affirming Surgery (GAS) can induce unsatisfaction with change, future regrets, and the risk of infertility. This raises ethical issues especially in the management of pubertal patients that remain unresolved. Therapy with GnRH analogues (GnRHa) is intended to delay puberty, so as to give the adolescent a longer period of time to decide whether to continue with the treatments. At the level of physical changes, this therapy may have an effect on bone mineralization and body composition; however, long-term longitudinal data are not yet available. An important feature related to the use of GnRHa is the risk of fertility. Gamete cryopreservation is the most established method of fertility preservation (FP) and should be counselled to transgender adolescents. However, these patients are not always interested in having biological children. CONCLUSION Based on the current evidence, there is a need to conduct further research to clarify certain issues and to standardize clinical practice and improve counselling in transgender adolescent decision making and avoid regrets in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- A C Conflitti
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - M Spaziani
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Medical Pathophysiology, Food Science and Endocrinology, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - F Pallotti
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - M G Tarsitano
- Department of Medical and Surgical Science, University Magna Graecia, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - A Di Nisio
- Department of Medicine, Operative Unit of Andrology and Medicine of Human Reproduction, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - D Paoli
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - F Lombardo
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
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19
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Albar M, Koziarz A, McMahon E, Chan C, Liu K. Timing of testosterone discontinuation and assisted reproductive technology outcomes in transgender patients: a cohort study. F S Rep 2023; 4:55-60. [PMID: 36959967 PMCID: PMC10028470 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfre.2023.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To determine if there is an association between the timing of testosterone discontinuation and assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes. Design Retrospectivse cohort study. Setting Single academic center. Patients We included consecutive transgender patients seeking fertility preservation between October 2019 and April 2021. Patients who identified as transgender on androgens for >1 month on presentation were included. Interventions None. Main outcome measures A linear regression model was used to evaluate the effect of testosterone discontinuation duration on the number of mature oocytes retrieved. Results Eighteen patients (mean age 27.7 [SD 5.2] years, mean body mass index 27.3 [SD 4.6] kg/m2, mean antimüllerian hormone 27.2 [SD 11.8], median antral follicle count 20 [interquartile range (IQR) 14-32]) were included in the analysis. No patient underwent transition-related surgery (eg, oophorectomy, hysterectomy). None of the patients were previously pregnant. Mean time o,n testosterone was 44 (SD 29.6) months. The median time off testosterone until the start of ovarian stimulation was 7.7 weeks (IQR 4.3-20.7). All patients underwent oocyte cryopreservation except one who had embryo cryopreservation. The median total number of oocytes was 11 (IQR 7-14). The median number of mature oocytes was 7.5 (IQR 5-12) oocytes. The univariate regression model evaluating the duration of time off testosterone before ART demonstrated no significant association with the outcome of mature oocytes (regression coefficient, 0.19; 95% confidence interval, -0.13 to 0.50). Conclusion In a retrospective analysis of transgender patients recently on testosterone undergoing ART, no association was detected between the timing of testosterone cessation and the number of mature oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Albar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of King Abdulaziz, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alex Koziarz
- Department of Radiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Eileen McMahon
- Hannam Fertility Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Crystal Chan
- Markham Fertility Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kimberly Liu
- Mount Sinai Fertility, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Reprint requests: Kimberly Liu, M.D., M.S.L., Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Mount Sinai Fertility, University of Toronto, 250 Dundas Street West, Suite 700, Ontario, Canada.
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20
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Moravek MB, Dixon M, Pena SM, Obedin-Maliver J. Management of testosterone around ovarian stimulation in transmasculine patients: challenging common practices to meet patient needs-2 case reports. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:482-488. [PMID: 36644915 PMCID: PMC9977120 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Approximately 50% of transmasculine people use testosterone for gender affirmation, yet very little is known about the effects of testosterone on future reproductive capacity. Moreover, there are no data to guide fertility specialists on how to manage testosterone leading up to or during ovarian stimulation. Most clinics require cessation of testosterone prior to ovarian stimulation in this setting of no data; however, the current literature does suggest a potential increase in dysphoria with cessation of testosterone and during stimulation. This divergence begs the question of whether clinicians may be doing more harm than good by enacting this requirement. Here, we present two cases of transmasculine individuals who were on testosterone prior to stimulation and maintained their testosterone dosage throughout stimulation as proof of concept, followed by a discussion of current clinical practice and providing some rationale to support continuation of testosterone throughout stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly B Moravek
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Marjorie Dixon
- Anova Fertility and Reproductive Health, North York, Ontario, Canada
| | - Samantha M Pena
- Anova Fertility and Reproductive Health, North York, Ontario, Canada
| | - Juno Obedin-Maliver
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
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21
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Bailie E, Maidarti M, Hawthorn R, Jack S, Watson N, Telfer EE, Anderson RA. The ovaries of transgender men indicate effects of high dose testosterone on the primordial and early growing follicle pool. REPRODUCTION AND FERTILITY 2023; 4:RAF-22-0102. [PMID: 37000633 PMCID: PMC10160535 DOI: 10.1530/raf-22-0102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Androgens are essential in normal ovarian function and follicle health but hyperandrogenism, as seen in polycystic ovary syndrome, is associated with disordered follicle development. There are few data on the effect of long-term exposure to high levels of testosterone as found in transgender men receiving gender-affirming endocrine therapy. In this study, we investigate the effect of testosterone on the development, morphological health and DNA damage and repair capacity of human ovarian follicles in vivo and their survival in vitro. Whole ovaries were obtained from transgender men (mean age: 27.6 ± 1.7 years; range 20-34 years, n = 8) at oophorectomy taking pre-operative testosterone therapy. This was compared to cortical biopsies from age-matched healthy women obtained at caesarean section (mean age: 31.8±1.5 years; range= 25-35 years, n=8). Cortical tissues were dissected into fragments and either immediately fixed for histological analysis or cultured for 6 days and subsequently fixed. Follicle classification and morphological health were evaluated from histological sections stained with H&E and expression of γH2AX as a marker of DNA damage by IHC. In uncultured tissue, testosterone exposure was associated with reduced follicle growth activation, poor follicle health and increased DNA damage. After 6 days of culture, there was enhanced follicle activation compared to control with further deterioration in morphological health and increased DNA damage. These data indicate that high circulating concentrations of testosterone have effects on the primordial and small-growing follicles of the ovary. These results may have implications for transgender men receiving gender-affirming therapy prior to considering pregnancy or fertility preservation measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Bailie
- Institute of Cell Biology, Hugh Robson Building, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Mila Maidarti
- Institute of Cell Biology, Hugh Robson Building, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Stuart Jack
- Simpson Centre for Reproductive Health, Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Neale Watson
- Spire Thames Valley Hospital, Wexham St, Slough, UK
| | - Evelyn E Telfer
- Institute of Cell Biology, Hugh Robson Building, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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22
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Zschaebitz E, Bradley A, Olson S, Casey C, Britz J. Primary Care Practice for Gender-Diverse Patients Using Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy. J Nurse Pract 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nurpra.2022.104526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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23
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Stolk THR, Asseler JD, Huirne JAF, van den Boogaard E, van Mello NM. Desire for children and fertility preservation in transgender and gender-diverse people: A systematic review. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2023; 87:102312. [PMID: 36806443 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2023.102312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The decision to pursue one's desire for children is a basic human right. For transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) people, gender-affirming care may alter the possibilities to fulfill one's desire for children due to the impact of this treatment on their reproductive organs. We systematically included 76 studies of varying quality describing the desire for children and parenthood; fertility counseling and utilization; and fertility preservation options and outcomes in TGD people. The majority of TGD people expressed a desire for children. Fertility preservation utilization rates were low as there are many barriers to pursue fertility preservation. The most utilized fertility preservation strategies include oocyte vitrification and sperm banking through masturbation. Oocyte vitrification showed successful outcomes, even after testosterone cessation. Sperm analyses when banking sperm showed a lower quality compared to cis male samples even prior to gender-affirming hormone treatment and an uncertain recovery of spermatogenesis after discontinuing treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- T H R Stolk
- Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, the Netherlands; Amsterdam UMC, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - J D Asseler
- Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, the Netherlands; Amsterdam UMC, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - J A F Huirne
- Amsterdam UMC, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - E van den Boogaard
- Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, the Netherlands; Amsterdam UMC, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - N M van Mello
- Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, the Netherlands; Amsterdam UMC, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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Defreyne J, Vander Stichele C, Iwamoto SJ, T'Sjoen G. Gender-affirming hormonal therapy for transgender and gender-diverse people-A narrative review. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2023; 86:102296. [PMID: 36596713 PMCID: PMC11197232 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2022.102296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
As the number of transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) people accessing gender-affirming care increases, the need for healthcare professionals (HCPs) providing gender-affirming hormonal therapy (GAHT) also increases. This chapter provides an overview of the HCPs interested in getting involved in providing GAHT.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Defreyne
- Department of Endocrinology and Center for Sexology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Clara Vander Stichele
- Department of Endocrinology and Center for Sexology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Sean J Iwamoto
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, and Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, CO, USA.
| | - G T'Sjoen
- Department of Endocrinology and Center for Sexology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
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Abstract
A growing number of adolescents in the United States identify as transgender and gender nonbinary, and many will seek medical management of menstruation. In this evidence-based review, we recommend a model of gender-affirming care grounded in the tenants of reproductive justice, emphasizing patient autonomy and the development of holistic management plans centered around the patient's unique goals for affirming their gender identity. We then review strategies for achieving menstruation suppression for transgender and gender nonbinary adolescents, including dosing considerations, menstruation, ovulation, contraceptive effects, and metabolic considerations specific to the adolescent population.
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Grateau S, Dupont C, Rivet-Danon D, Béranger A, Johnson N, Mathieu d'Argent E, Chabbert-Buffet N, Sermondade N. [Fertility preservation for transmen]. GYNECOLOGIE, OBSTETRIQUE, FERTILITE & SENOLOGIE 2022; 50:797-804. [PMID: 36183988 DOI: 10.1016/j.gofs.2022.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The evolution of medical techniques as well as legislative changes currently allow to propose fertility preservation strategies in the context of transidentity. During "female to male" transition, androgen therapy has an impact on gonadal function since it usually induces a blockage of ovulation with amenorrhea. Although this effect is reversible when treatment is stopped, the possible long-term effects of testosterone treatment on future fertility or health of future children are poorly known. In addition, transitional surgeries definitely compromise fecundity when they include bilateral ovariectomy and/or hysterectomy. Yet, although long ignored or poorly expressed, the desire for parenthood is a reality in transgender men. Fertility preservation options in FtM transition rely on oocyte or ovarian tissue cryopreservation. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the literature regarding fertility preservation in transgender men. Although series remain limited, the increase in the number of recently published articles reflects the interest in improving the management of fertility issues in transgender men.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Grateau
- Service de biologie de la reproduction - CECOS, Sorbonne université, hôpital Tenon, AP-HP, 4, rue de la Chine, 75020 Paris, France
| | - C Dupont
- Service de biologie de la reproduction - CECOS, Sorbonne université, hôpital Tenon, AP-HP, 4, rue de la Chine, 75020 Paris, France
| | - D Rivet-Danon
- Service de biologie de la reproduction - CECOS, Sorbonne université, hôpital Tenon, AP-HP, 4, rue de la Chine, 75020 Paris, France
| | - A Béranger
- Service de biologie de la reproduction - CECOS, Sorbonne université, hôpital Tenon, AP-HP, 4, rue de la Chine, 75020 Paris, France
| | - N Johnson
- Service de gynécologie-obstétrique-médecine de la reproduction, Sorbonne université, hôpital Tenon, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - E Mathieu d'Argent
- Service de gynécologie-obstétrique-médecine de la reproduction, Sorbonne université, hôpital Tenon, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - N Chabbert-Buffet
- Service de gynécologie-obstétrique-médecine de la reproduction, Sorbonne université, hôpital Tenon, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - N Sermondade
- Service de biologie de la reproduction - CECOS, Sorbonne université, hôpital Tenon, AP-HP, 4, rue de la Chine, 75020 Paris, France.
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Brouillet S, Ducrocq B, Mestres S, Guillemain C, Ravel C, Reignier A. [Fertility preservation and access to medically assisted reproduction for Trans people: Guidelines from French Professional Association for Transgender Health]. GYNECOLOGIE, OBSTETRIQUE, FERTILITE & SENOLOGIE 2022; 50:682-688. [PMID: 35750197 DOI: 10.1016/j.gofs.2022.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Many health care professionals are dealing with the issue of transgender people in their medical practice. In the field of reproduction, Trans people can benefit from fertility preservation before the introduction of hormonal treatment or surgery altering their fertility. This article, which is the result of a collaborative work of several reproductive professionals involved in the health of Trans people, provides an overview of the possibilities of fertility preservation and medically assisted reproduction techniques in France for Trans people.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Brouillet
- Inserm 1203 DEFE, département de biologie de la reproduction, CHU de Montpellier, université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - B Ducrocq
- CECOS, CHU de Lille, institut de biologie de la reproduction, Lille, France
| | - S Mestres
- Assistance médicale à la procréation, CECOS, CHU de Clermont-Ferrand, CHU d'Estaing, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - C Guillemain
- Pôle femmes-parents-enfants, centre clinicobiologique d'assistance médicale à la procréation - CECOS, APHM, hôpital La Conception, 13385 Marseille cedex 5, France
| | - C Ravel
- Inserm, service de biologie de la reproduction - CECOS, EHESP, CHU de Rennes, université Rennes, Irset (institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - A Reignier
- Inserm, biologie et médecine de la reproduction et gynécologie médicale, centre de recherche en transplantation et immunologie, UMR 1064, CHU de Nantes, Nantes université, Nantes, France.
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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. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF TRANSGENDER HEALTH 2022; 23:S1-S259. [PMID: 36238954 PMCID: PMC9553112 DOI: 10.1080/26895269.2022.2100644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 615] [Impact Index Per Article: 307.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [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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Ataman LM, Laronda MM, Gowett M, Trotter K, Anvari H, Fei F, Ingram A, Minette M, Suebthawinkul C, Taghvaei Z, Torres-Vélez M, Velez K, Adiga SK, Anazodo A, Appiah L, Bourlon MT, Daniels N, Dolmans MM, Finlayson C, Gilchrist RB, Gomez-Lobo V, Greenblatt E, Halpern JA, Hutt K, Johnson EK, Kawamura K, Khrouf M, Kimelman D, Kristensen S, Mitchell RT, Moravek MB, Nahata L, Orwig KE, Pavone ME, Pépin D, Pesce R, Quinn GP, Rosen MP, Rowell E, Smith K, Venter C, Whiteside S, Xiao S, Zelinski M, Goldman KN, Woodruff TK, Duncan FE. A synopsis of global frontiers in fertility preservation. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:1693-1712. [PMID: 35870095 PMCID: PMC9307970 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02570-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Since 2007, the Oncofertility Consortium Annual Conference has brought together a diverse network of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and professional levels to disseminate emerging basic and clinical research findings in fertility preservation. This network also developed enduring educational materials to accelerate the pace and quality of field-wide scientific communication. Between 2007 and 2019, the Oncofertility Consortium Annual Conference was held as an in-person event in Chicago, IL. The conference attracted approximately 250 attendees each year representing 20 countries around the world. In 2020, however, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted this paradigm and precluded an in-person meeting. Nevertheless, there remained an undeniable demand for the oncofertility community to convene. To maintain the momentum of the field, the Oncofertility Consortium hosted a day-long virtual meeting on March 5, 2021, with the theme of "Oncofertility Around the Globe" to highlight the diversity of clinical care and translational research that is ongoing around the world in this discipline. This virtual meeting was hosted using the vFairs ® conference platform and allowed over 700 people to participate, many of whom were first-time conference attendees. The agenda featured concurrent sessions from presenters in six continents which provided attendees a complete overview of the field and furthered our mission to create a global community of oncofertility practice. This paper provides a synopsis of talks delivered at this event and highlights the new advances and frontiers in the fields of oncofertility and fertility preservation around the globe from clinical practice and patient-centered efforts to translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- L M Ataman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - M M Laronda
- Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - M Gowett
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - K Trotter
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - H Anvari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - F Fei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - A Ingram
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - M Minette
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - C Suebthawinkul
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Z Taghvaei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - M Torres-Vélez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - K Velez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - S K Adiga
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - A Anazodo
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Nelune Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Sydney, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - L Appiah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - M T Bourlon
- Hemato-Oncology Department, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas Y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - N Daniels
- The Oncology and Fertility Centres of Ekocorp, Eko Hospitals, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - M M Dolmans
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale Et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Av. Mounier 52, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Gynecology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Av. Hippocrate 10, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - C Finlayson
- Department of Pediatrics (Endocrinology), Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - R B Gilchrist
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - V Gomez-Lobo
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | - J A Halpern
- Department of Urology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - K Hutt
- Anatomy & Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - E K Johnson
- Department of Urology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Division of Urology, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - K Kawamura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - M Khrouf
- FERTILLIA, Clinique la Rose, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - D Kimelman
- Centro de Esterilidad Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - S Kristensen
- Department of Fertility, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - R T Mitchell
- Department of Developmental Endocrinology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - M B Moravek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - L Nahata
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
- Endocrinology and Center for Biobehavioral Health, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - K E Orwig
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - M E Pavone
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - D Pépin
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - R Pesce
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - G P Quinn
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Medical Ethics, Population Health, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - M P Rosen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - E Rowell
- Department of Surgery (Pediatric Surgery), Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - K Smith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - C Venter
- Vitalab, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - S Whiteside
- Fertility & Reproductive Health Program, Department of Hematology/Oncology/BMT, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - S Xiao
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Environmental Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - M Zelinski
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - K N Goldman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - T K Woodruff
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - F E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
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Mehra G, Boskey ER, Peters CJ, Njubigbo C, Charlton BM, Ganor O. Assessing Fertility Intentions in Patients Presenting for Gender-Affirming Surgery. LGBT Health 2022; 9:325-332. [PMID: 35749209 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2021.0148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: For some transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) individuals, gender-affirming surgery may represent the last opportunity to engage in gamete banking (GB) and other forms of fertility preservation (FP). Previous research has assessed fertility intentions among TGD people initiating hormone therapy. The objective of this study was to describe the fertility intentions of patients seeking gender-affirming surgery. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted for 233 patients seeking chest or genital surgery between 2017 and 2019. Data abstracted included interest in having children (biological or non-biological) and GB, and barriers to FP. Associations between fertility intentions, sex assigned at birth, and surgical procedure sought were assessed. Results: Of the 233 records reviewed, 162 (70%) documented information about fertility intentions for patients without a history of sterilizing surgery. At initial consultation, 94% were receiving hormone therapy. Among the 60 patients seeking genital surgery, 30% expressed interest in GB and 38% were not interested in biological children. Among the 102 patients seeking chest surgery, 11% expressed interest in GB and 47% were not interested in biological children. Patients assigned male at birth were more likely to have already completed GB (p < 0.001). Among the patients interested in FP, 41% reported barriers to access. Conclusion: Many TGD people in our study expressed no interest in biological parenthood; however, 30% of patients seeking genital surgery expressed interest in GB. This suggests that some who defer FP when starting hormones may wish to pursue it later in life. Ongoing assessment of fertility intentions and reducing barriers to FP are integral to caring for TGD people.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elizabeth R Boskey
- Center for Gender Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston Massachusetts, USA
| | - Carson J Peters
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Chinelo Njubigbo
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Brittany M Charlton
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Division of Adolescent Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Oren Ganor
- Center for Gender Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston Massachusetts, USA
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Fertility Preservation for Transgender Males. Obstet Gynecol 2022; 139:1012-1017. [DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000004751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Giacomozzi M, Health MSG, Aubin SG, Brancaccio MT. Mapping Accessibility to Fertility Preservation for Trans Masculine Individuals in the Netherlands. LGBT Health 2022; 9:369-383. [PMID: 35533011 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2021.0302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Since 2014 in the Netherlands, sterilization is no longer required for legal gender affirmation. Access to fertility preservation (FP) options is indispensable to grant equal reproductive rights to this population. This study aims to map existing literature on barriers and enabling factors for trans masculine individuals to access FP in the Netherlands after 2014. Methods: A scoping review method was conducted, including a database and a hand search complemented with informal consultations. Literature between 2014 and 2021 was searched. Results: A total of 38 peer-reviewed articles and 22 complementary gray literature sources were retrieved. Thematic analysis identified seven common themes: biological, psychological, training, language, law and legislation, economic, and sociocultural. The themes were clustered as patient-, health care provider (HCP)- and environment-related. Conclusion: The Netherlands offers progressive legislation and accommodating insurance agreements that favor FP for trans masculine individuals. However, the current readiness of HCPs to provide adapted and tailored care is arguable, and the capacity to access appropriate health services for trans masculine individuals is largely nonexistent outside of highly specialized health institutions. The implementation of both formal and informal education training programs for HCPs on transgender and gender diverse health needs-as well as inclusive language use-could benefit this community at large.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - MSc Global Health
- Department of Health, Ethics and Society, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Maria Teresa Brancaccio
- Department of Health, Ethics and Society, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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Israeli T, Preisler L, Kalma Y, Samara N, Levi S, Groutz A, Azem F, Amir H. Similar fertilization rates and preimplantation embryo development among testosterone-treated transgender men and cisgender women. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 45:448-456. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Morong JJ, Class QA, Zamah AM, Hinz E. Parenting intentions in transgender and gender-nonconforming adults. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2022; 159:557-562. [PMID: 35332529 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.14194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess parenting intentions, knowledge and attitudes regarding fertility preservation, and barriers to achieving parenthood in an adult transgender population. METHODS This was a multi-center online cross-sectional study conducted at three university-affiliated and 15 community-affiliated clinics within a major US city. Inclusion criteria included being aged 18 years and older and self-identification as transgender, gender non-conforming or non-binary. Eighty respondents completed a 36-question survey regarding their transition and plans to achieve parenthood. We compared demographic characteristics to plan for transition using Chi-Square analysis. We compared options to achieve parenthood to plans for transition using ANOVA, Spearman's rho correlation coefficient, and a Kruskal Wallis H test. RESULTS The mean desire to become a parent was 59.9 on a scale of 1-100. There was no significant association between plan for gonadectomy and reduced preference for the use of autologous gametes for parenting [H(2) = 1.309, P = 0.520]. The desire to have children was correlated with an increasing willingness to pause cross-sex hormones (rs = 0.40, P < 0.01). Cost was identified as the largest barrier to fertility preservation (54.1%). CONCLUSION The majority of transgender adults surveyed desire parenthood and this could be correlated with plan for transition including willingness to suspend cross-sex hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- James J Morong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Quetzal A Class
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Alberuni Musa Zamah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Section of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Erica Hinz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Rodriguez-Wallberg K, Obedin-Maliver J, Taylor B, Van Mello N, Tilleman K, Nahata L. Reproductive health in transgender and gender diverse individuals: A narrative review to guide clinical care and international guidelines. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF TRANSGENDER HEALTH 2022; 24:7-25. [PMID: 36713139 PMCID: PMC9879176 DOI: 10.1080/26895269.2022.2035883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Background Hormonal treatments and surgical interventions practiced with the aim to affirm gender identity in transgender and gender diverse patients may impact their future reproductive ability, family building, and family planning options. Whereas it is recommended by international guidelines to discuss the potential risks of infertility and to present fertility preservation (FP) options to transgender individuals and their families prior to initiating any of these treatments, many barriers still remain. Further, transgender and gender diverse individuals often experience barriers to accessing contraception, abortion, pre-conception care, and comprehensive perinatal care. Aims In this review we summarize the current literature on reproductive healthcare issues reported in transgender people including fertility issues, fertility preservation (FP), contraception, pregnancy and lactation and perinatal health. Methods A narrative literature search of major databases (Pubmed, Medline, PsycInfo, Google Scholar, Web of Science) was conducted. Given the paucity and heterogeneity of studies, summative review tactics were not available. The literature was critically reviewed by international experts in the field with focus on the impact of gender-affirming medical interventions on future fertility, current FP options and reproductive health issues in transgender people. Results The current literature supports that transgender and gender diverse individuals may wish to have genetically related children in the future, rendering the issue of FP relevant to this patient group. The cryopreservation of mature gametes is an efficacious option for FP for post-pubertal adolescents and adults. It is recommended to discuss these options at time of planning for gender-affirming hormonal therapy (GAHT) or engaging with other gender-affirming procedures that can limit future fertility. Discontinuation of GAHT may allow individuals to undergo FP later, but data are limited and there is the concern of symptoms and consequences of stopping GAHT. For pre-pubertal and early pubertal children, FP options are limited to the cryopreservation of gonadal tissue. At present the tissue can become functional only after re-transplantation, which might be undesirable by transgender individuals in the future. Preconception counseling, prenatal surveillance, perinatal support, contraceptive, and pregnancy termination related healthcare need to be meaningfully adapted for this patient population, and many knowledge gaps remain. Discussion Specialized FP reproductive healthcare for transgender and gender diverse individuals is in early evolution. Research should be conducted to examine effects of medical interventions on fertility, timing of FP, gamete preservation and outcome of the fertility treatments. Strategies to inform and educate transgender and gender diverse patients can lead to optimization of reproductive care and counseling and decision making of FP for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenny Rodriguez-Wallberg
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Oncology-Pahology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Laboratory of Translational Fertility Preservation, NKS, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Juno Obedin-Maliver
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Bernard Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Atrium Health, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Norah Van Mello
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kelly Tilleman
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Leena Nahata
- Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Columbus, OH, USA
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
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Borrás A, Manau D, Fabregues F, Peralta S, Calafell JM, Casals G, Saco A, Agustí I, Carmona F. Comparison between slow freezing and vitrification of ovarian tissue cryopreservation in assigned female at birth transgender people receiving testosterone therapy: data on histological and viability parameters. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:527-541. [PMID: 35098405 PMCID: PMC8956766 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02386-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The use of fertility preservation (FP) techniques has significantly increased in recent years in the assigned female at birth (AFAB) transgender population. Oocyte cryopreservation is the established method for FP, but ovarian tissue cryopreservation may be considered an alternative option, especially during gender-affirming surgery (GAS). The slow freezing (SF) cryopreservation technique is the standard method for human ovarian tissue, but recently, several studies have shown good results with the vitrification (VT) technique. The objective of this study was to compare the effectiveness of VT and SF techniques in ovarian tissue from AFAB transgender people. METHODS This was a prospective study including 18 AFAB transgender people after GAS. Ovarian tissue pieces from each ovary were cryopreserved by SF and VT and compared with fresh tissue. Study by light microscopy (LM) assessed follicular morphology and density. The percentage of surviving and degenerated follicles was studied with the tissue viability test. Oocytes, granulosa cells and stroma were analysed separately by transmission electron microscopy. RESULTS The VT technique preserves follicle and stromal tissue as well as the SF method, but with some differences. Evaluation by LM showed better follicle preservation with VT, but the ultrastructural study showed the presence of minor damage with both techniques compared to fresh tissue. CONCLUSION Both cryopreservation techniques are accurate for maintaining the follicular population and stromal tissue. Further studies are needed to determine the impact of VT on ovarian tissue and the subsequent follicular activation mechanisms in AFAB ovarian tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aina Borrás
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Clinical Institute of Gynecology, Obstetrics, and Neonatology, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Carrer de Villarroel N° 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Dolors Manau
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Clinical Institute of Gynecology, Obstetrics, and Neonatology, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Carrer de Villarroel N° 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain ,Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francesc Fabregues
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Clinical Institute of Gynecology, Obstetrics, and Neonatology, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Carrer de Villarroel N° 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain ,Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sara Peralta
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Clinical Institute of Gynecology, Obstetrics, and Neonatology, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Carrer de Villarroel N° 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Maria Calafell
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Clinical Institute of Gynecology, Obstetrics, and Neonatology, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Carrer de Villarroel N° 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gemma Casals
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Clinical Institute of Gynecology, Obstetrics, and Neonatology, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Carrer de Villarroel N° 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain ,Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Adela Saco
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain ,Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Inés Agustí
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Clinical Institute of Gynecology, Obstetrics, and Neonatology, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Carrer de Villarroel N° 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francisco Carmona
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Clinical Institute of Gynecology, Obstetrics, and Neonatology, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Carrer de Villarroel N° 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain ,Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
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Stark BA, Mok-Lin E. Fertility preservation in transgender men without discontinuation of testosterone. F S Rep 2022; 3:153-156. [PMID: 35789719 PMCID: PMC9250124 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfre.2022.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Brett A. Stark
- Reprint requests: Brett A. Stark, M.D., M.P.H., Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, 490 Illinois Street, 10th Floor, Box 0132, SF, California 94158.
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O’Connell MA, Nguyen TP, Ahler A, Skinner SR, Pang KC. Approach to the Patient: Pharmacological Management of Trans and Gender-Diverse Adolescents. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:241-257. [PMID: 34476487 PMCID: PMC8684462 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Internationally, increasing numbers of children and adolescents with gender dysphoria are presenting for care. In response, gender-affirming therapeutic interventions that seek to align bodily characteristics with an individual's gender identity are more commonly being used. Depending on a young person's circumstances and goals, hormonal interventions may aim to achieve full pubertal suppression, modulation of endogenous pubertal sex hormone effects, and/or development of secondary sex characteristics congruent with their affirmed gender. This is a relatively novel therapeutic area and, although short-term outcomes are encouraging, longer term data from prospective longitudinal adolescent cohorts are still lacking, which may create clinical and ethical decision-making challenges. Here, we review current treatment options, reported outcomes, and clinical challenges in the pharmacological management of trans and gender-diverse adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele A O’Connell
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Department of Adolescent Medicine, The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
- Correspondence: Michele A. O’Connell, FRACP, MD, Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, The Royal Children’s Hospital, 50 Flemington Road, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia.
| | - Thomas P Nguyen
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW 2560, Australia
| | - Astrid Ahler
- Reproductive Medicine and Gynecological Endocrinology (RME), University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - S Rachel Skinner
- Speciality of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney University, Children’s Hospital Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Ken C Pang
- Department of Adolescent Medicine, The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute for Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
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Barrett F, Shaw J, Blakemore JK, Fino ME. Fertility Preservation for Adolescent and Young Adult Transmen: A Case Series and Insights on Oocyte Cryopreservation. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:873508. [PMID: 35685214 PMCID: PMC9171925 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.873508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The opportunity for fertility preservation in adolescent and young adult (AYA) transmen is growing. Many AYA transmen desire future biologic children and are interested in ways to preserve fertility through oocyte cryopreservation prior to full gender affirmation, yet utilization of oocyte cryopreservation remains low. Additionally, standard practice guidelines currently do not exist for the provision of oocyte cryopreservation to AYA transmen. Our objective was to review our experience with oocyte cryopreservation in adolescent and young adult transmen in order to synthesize lessons regarding referral patterns, utilization, and oocyte cryopreservation outcomes as well as best practices to establish treatment guidance. METHODS This is a case series of all AYA transmen (aged 10 to 25 years) who contacted, consulted or underwent oocyte cryopreservation at a single high volume New York City based academic fertility center between 2009 and 2021. RESULTS Forty-four adolescent and young adult transmen made contact to the fertility center over the study period. Eighty percent (35/44) had a consultation with a Reproductive and Endocrinology specialist, with a median age of 16 years (range 10 to 24 years) at consultation. The majority were testosterone-naive (71%, 25/35), and had not pursued gender affirming surgery (86%, 30/35). Expedited initiation of testosterone remained the most commonly cited goal (86%, 30/35). Fifty-seven percent (20/35) pursued oocyte cryopreservation. Ninety-five percent (19/20) underwent successful transvaginal oocyte aspiration, with a median of 22 oocytes retrieved and 15 mature oocytes cryopreserved. There were no significant adverse events. At time of review, no patient has returned to utilize their cryopreserved oocytes. CONCLUSIONS Oocyte cryopreservation is a safe fertility preservation option in AYA transmen and is an important aspect of providing comprehensive transgender care. Insights from referral patterns, utilization, and oocyte cryopreservation outcomes from a single center's experience with adolescent and young adult transmen can be integrated to identify lessons learned with the goal of providing transparency surrounding the oocyte cryopreservation process, improving the education and comfort of patients and providers with fertility preservation, and easing the decision to pursue an oocyte cryopreservation cycle in parallel to gender-affirmatory care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Barrett
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Jacquelyn Shaw
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, New York University Langone Fertility Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Jennifer K. Blakemore
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, New York University Langone Fertility Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Mary Elizabeth Fino
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, New York University Langone Fertility Center, New York, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Mary Elizabeth Fino,
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Sineath RC, Blasdel G, Dy GW. Addressing urologic health disparities in sexual and gender minority communities through patient-centered outcomes research. Urology 2021; 166:66-75. [PMID: 34774931 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2021.08.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Sexual and gender minority (SGM) communities face stigma and discrimination that impact all aspects of health. To better understand and improve their urologic health outcomes, we must study SGM patients as a distinct population and pursue research on outcomes identified as priorities to SGM communities. Patient-centered outcomes research (PCOR) is a methodology which is increasingly familiar to urologists and is crucial to adequately addressing SGM health in future urological research. We review existing literature focused on urologic outcomes of SGM populations and highlight specific PCOR initiatives built on SGM community engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Craig Sineath
- Department of Urology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon.
| | - Gaines Blasdel
- Department of Urology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Geolani W Dy
- Department of Urology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
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Endocrinological and ovarian histological investigations in assigned female at birth transgender people undergoing testosterone therapy. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 43:289-297. [PMID: 34244072 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What are the hormonal and ovarian histological effects of a gender affirming hormonal therapy in assigned female at birth (AFAB) transgender people? DESIGN Prospective observational study of 70 AFAB transgender people taking testosterone therapy before gender-affirming surgery (hystero-oophorectomy). A gynaecological ultrasonographic scan was undertaken and serum hormone concentrations measured, including anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and androgenic profile. Histological ovarian evaluation was assessed in both ovaries, including the developmental stages of the follicles. RESULTS The mean age of the population was 27.7+/-5.14 years. The main biochemical parameters were total testosterone levels 781.5 ± 325.9 ng/dl; AMH levels 3.2 ± 1.4 ng/ml; FSH and LH levels 4.9 ± 2.5 IU/l and 3.9 ± 2.9 IU/l, respectively; and oestradiol values 47.6 ± 13.7 pg/ml. Fifty-five AFAB underwent gynaecological ultrasound before surgery and antral follicles were found in 43 out of 47 ultrasounds (91.5%) (without the presence of a dominant follicle or corpus luteum). Histological follicles were mostly in the primordial stage (88.0) and 3.3% were atretic. The thickness of the tunica albuginea was widely heterogeneous (range 0.15-1.45 mm) and luteinization of the stromal cells was observed in 68.6% of the samples. A negative correlation between testosterone levels and total antral follicles was found (Rs= -0.306, P = 0.029). CONCLUSIONS AFAB transgender people taking testosterone therapy show cortical follicle distribution in the range previously reported in fertile cisgender women of reproductive age. The follicular population may not be altered as a result of the gender-affirming hormonal therapy, although some cortical and stromal changes have been observed.
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Kinnear HM, Hashim PH, Dela Cruz C, Rubenstein G, Chang AL, Nimmagadda L, Brunette MA, Padmanabhan V, Shikanov A, Moravek MB. Reversibility of testosterone-induced acyclicity after testosterone cessation in a transgender mouse model. F&S SCIENCE 2021; 2:116-123. [PMID: 35559746 PMCID: PMC9106321 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2021.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To establish if the cessation of testosterone (T) therapy reverses T-induced acyclicity in a transgender mouse model that allows for well-defined T cessation timing. DESIGN Experimental laboratory study using a mouse model. SETTING University-based basic science research laboratory. ANIMALS A total of 10 C57BL/6NHsd female mice were used in this study. INTERVENTION(S) Postpubertal C57BL/6NHsd female mice were subcutaneously implanted with T enanthate (n = 5 mice) or placebo (n = 5 mice) pellets. Pellets were surgically removed after 6 weeks to ensure T cessation, after which the mice were followed for four estrous cycles after the resumption of cyclicity. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Primary outcomes included daily vaginal cytology and weekly T levels before, during, and after T enanthate or placebo pellet implantation and removal. Secondary outcomes included ovarian follicle distribution and corpora lutea numbers, body metrics, and terminal diestrus hormone levels. RESULT(S) T-treated mice (100%) resumed cycling within one week of T pellet removal after six weeks of T therapy. T levels were significantly elevated during T therapy and decreased to control levels after surgical pellet removal. No detectable differences were observed in the follicle count, corpora lutea formation, diestrus hormone levels, or body metrics after four estrous cycles, with the exception of persistent increased clitoral area between T-treated mice and controls. One T-treated mouse was sacrificed early due to vaginal prolapse and not included in subsequent analyses. CONCLUSION(S) Our results demonstrated a close temporal relationship between estrous cycle return and T levels dropping to control levels following T pellet removal. The return of regular cyclic ovulatory function is also supported by the formation of corpora lutea and the lack of detectable differences in key reproductive parameters as compared to controls four cycles after T cessation. These results may be relevant to understanding the reversibility of T-induced amenorrhea and possible anovulation in transgender men interested in pausing T to pursue pregnancy or oocyte donation. Results may be limited by the duration of T treatment, lack of functional testing, and physiological differences between mice and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadrian M Kinnear
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Prianka H Hashim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Cynthia Dela Cruz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Gillian Rubenstein
- Women's and Gender Studies Department, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Alexis L Chang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Likitha Nimmagadda
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Margaret A Brunette
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Department of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Ariella Shikanov
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Molly B Moravek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.
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Yan M, Bustos SS, Kuruoglu D, Ciudad P, Forte AJ, Kim EA, Del Corral G, Manrique OJ. Systematic review of fertility preservation options in transgender patients: a guide for plastic surgeons. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:613. [PMID: 33987311 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-4523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Transgender patients often desire to have biological children. However, their reproductive potential is often negatively impacted by gender affirming surgery (GAS) such as gender confirmation surgery (bottom surgery) and medical hormone therapy. Therefore, counselling patients on fertility preservation options before initiating gender-affirming treatments is prudent to avoid reducing their reproductive potential. A systematic review of English, Spanish, Chinese, French and Turkish languages from 2000 to December 23rd, 2019, using the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis protocols (PRISMA-P) guidelines, was conducted. The search strategy was designed and conducted by an experienced librarian with input from the study's principle investigator. Fifteen articles that report outcomes of fertility preservation options in transgenders were included. Eight articles described options for transgender women, six reported options for transgender men and one included both transgender women and transgender men. Semen cryopreservation and oocyte cryopreservation are the most common and available methods for fertility preservation in transgenders. Physician awareness of fertility preservation options in transgender patients is crucial to ensure informed discussions regarding reproductive options in the early phase of transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Yan
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Samyd S Bustos
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA.,Center for Regenerative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Doga Kuruoglu
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA.,Center for Regenerative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Pedro Ciudad
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Burn Surgery, Arzobispo Loayza National Hospital, Lima, Peru
| | - Antonio J Forte
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Mayo Clinic Florida Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Jacksonville, USA
| | - Esther A Kim
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Gabriel Del Corral
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Medstar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Oscar J Manrique
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA.,Center for Regenerative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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Access to fertility services by transgender and nonbinary persons: an Ethics Committee opinion. Fertil Steril 2021; 115:874-878. [PMID: 33632473 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.01.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This statement explores the ethical considerations surrounding the provision of fertility services to transgender individuals and concludes that the denial of access to fertility services is not justified.
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Affiliation(s)
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- American Society for Reproductive Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama
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45
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Bartels CB, Uliasz TF, Lestz L, Mehlmann LM. Short-term testosterone use in female mice does not impair fertilizability of eggs: implications for the fertility care of transgender males. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:189-198. [PMID: 33160287 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does testosterone use in females affect reproductive potential, particularly with regard to the production of fertilizable gametes? SUMMARY ANSWER Testosterone (T) injections given to post-pubertal female mice caused virilization and although the ovaries were smaller than controls they were still responsive and produced fertilizable eggs when superovulated. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Studies to examine the effects of testosterone on reproductive potential in transgender males are lacking. Recently, a model was developed that simulates many aspects of testosterone use in transgender males in order to look at reproductive effects of testosterone in female mice. This study found masculinizing effects on the mice but did not find significant deficits on the number of ovarian follicles; however, effects of testosterone use on ovarian stimulation and fertilizability of oocytes were not investigated. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A total of 66, 6-week-old Hsd:NSA (CF-1) female mice and six Hsd:ICR (CD-1) male mice were used for this study. Mice were injected s.c. with 400 µg T or sesame oil once a week for 6 weeks and were either killed 1 week after the sixth injection (active exposure group), or 6-7 weeks after the final T injection (washout group). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Both active exposure and washout groups were further subdivided into three groups: unstimulated, equine CG (eCG)-stimulated or eCG/hCG-stimulated. eCG-stimulated mice were killed 44-48 h after eCG injection. eCG/hCG-stimulated mice were injected with eCG, followed 48 h later with hCG. Mice were killed ∼13-18 h after the hCG injection. Data collected included daily vaginal cytology, terminal testosterone levels, ovary weights and histology, number of oocytes/eggs collected in each group, and cleavage to the two-cell stage following IVF. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Testosterone-treated mice had testosterone levels elevated to the level of male mice and ceased cycling. Ovaries were significantly smaller in testosterone-treated mice, but they contained normal cohorts of follicles and responded to gonadotrophin stimulation by ovulating similar numbers of eggs as controls, that fertilized and cleaved in vitro. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Mice were treated for only 6 weeks, whereas many transgender men use testosterone for many years before considering biological children, and developmental competence was not assessed. Importantly, a mouse system may not perfectly simulate human reproductive physiology. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The current standard of care for transgender men who desire biological children is to cease testosterone therapy prior to ovarian stimulation, but the necessity for stopping testosterone is not known. Our model demonstrates that it is possible for testosterone-suppressed ovaries to respond to gonadotrophic stimulation by producing and ovulating fertilizable eggs, thereby obviating the need for testosterone cessation prior to ovarian stimulation. In time, these results may provide insights for future clinical trials of fertility treatment options for transgender men. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was funded by the Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility fellowship program through UConn Health Graduate Medical Education (to C.B.B.). The authors have no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- C B Bartels
- Department of Cell Biology, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA.,Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - T F Uliasz
- Department of Cell Biology, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - L Lestz
- Department of Cell Biology, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - L M Mehlmann
- Department of Cell Biology, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
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Abstract
Social acceptance and legal protections for transgender and gender nonconforming patients have increased over the past decade, but significant health care disparities still remain. Such an area of disparity is discussion with and interventions for fertility, contraception, pregnancy, and lactation in TGNC patients. Providing optimal care starts with creating a welcoming and safe environment. Appropriate preconception education includes the effects of gender-affirming therapies (both surgical and nonsurgical) on fertility as well the fertility preservation techniques that are available. However, as gamete retrieval requires natal hormone stimulation, gender dysphoria may be worsened. Thus, these patients should be carefully monitored not only medically, but also with regard to their mental health. In addition to assisted reproductive technologies, protocols exist to aid with induction of lactation as well as discontinuation if desired. As this is a growing field of medicine with limited data available on safety and long-term outcomes, recommendations are for a multidisciplinary team approach to ensure patients' safety and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sajal Patel
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Virginia Commonwealth University Hospital System, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Lori B Sweeney
- Division of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Central Virginia VA Health Care System, Richmond, Virginia, USA
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Abstract
The 5 principal reasons a patient may consider fertility preservation are: treatment for cancer that may affect fertility, treatment for nonmalignant medical conditions that may affect fertility, planned indications, planned gender-affirming hormone therapy or surgery, or in the setting of genetic conditions that may increase the risks of premature ovarian insufficiency or early menopause. This paper will focus on describing who may consider preserving their fertility, how to provide the best clinical evaluation of those seeking fertility preservation, and current and future fertility preservation techniques. Last, we will highlight a need to continue to expand access to fertility preservation technologies.
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48
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Resende SDS, Kussumoto VH, Arima FHC, Krul PC, Rodovalho NCM, Sampaio MRDJ, Alves MM. A transgender man, a cisgender woman, and assisted reproductive technologies: a Brazilian case report. JBRA Assist Reprod 2020; 24:513-516. [PMID: 32469193 PMCID: PMC7558884 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20200024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Transgender men are individuals who identify as men but were assigned female at birth. Gender-affirming medications include testosterone hormone therapy, known for its diverse effects throughout the body, which include endometrial atrophy and the induction of amenorrhea by suppressing ovulation, without however affecting the ovarian follicle pool. This paper reports the first case in Brazil involving a transgender man and a cisgender woman attempting to form a family. A 34-year-old transgender man and a 28-year-old woman came to our assisted reproduction service. He had been on testosterone for two years. At their initial consultation, testosterone therapy was discontinued. Controlled ovarian stimulation for the transgender man was achieved using a combination of recombinant gonadotropins FSH and LH. Pituitary blockage was performed using a GnRH antagonist protocol. Twenty follicles were aspirated and 16 oocytes were retrieved, 12 of which mature. They were inseminated with donor semen. On the fifth day of development, one high quality blastocyst was transferred to the cisgender woman, resulting in an ongoing pregnancy. Five supernumerary embryos were cryopreserved. Controlled ovarian stimulation with high quality oocytes, high quality embryos, and clinical pregnancy are possible for transgender men, even with a history of testosterone use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vitor Hugo Kussumoto
- Dra Suely Resende - Centro de Reprodução Humana Assistida - Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | - Mayara Muneishi Alves
- Dra Suely Resende - Centro de Reprodução Humana Assistida - Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
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Witchel SF, Plant TM. Intertwined reproductive endocrinology: Puberty and polycystic ovary syndrome. CURRENT OPINION IN ENDOCRINE AND METABOLIC RESEARCH 2020; 14:127-136. [PMID: 33102929 PMCID: PMC7583558 DOI: 10.1016/j.coemr.2020.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous familial disorder often emerging during the peri-pubertal years concomitantly with the onset of gonadarche and adrenarche. Both gonadarche and PCOS reflect functional changes in the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. During this transition, normal girls manifest features consistent with PCOS such as irregular menses, mild hyperandrogenism, and multi-follicular ovary morphology. Themes common to puberty and PCOS, neuroendocrine features, androgen exposure, and insulin sensitivity, will be considered to address the possibility that PCOS interferes with the normal pubertal transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selma Feldman Witchel
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh/University of Pittsburgh, 4401 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15224 USA
| | - Tony M Plant
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, 204 Craft Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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Mayhew AC, Gomez-Lobo V. Fertility Options for the Transgender and Gender Nonbinary Patient. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5892794. [PMID: 32797184 PMCID: PMC7455280 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Comprehensive care for transgender and gender nonbinary patients has been a priority established by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health. Because pubertal suppression, gender-affirming hormone therapy, and antiandrogen therapy used alone or in combination during medical transition can affect gonadal function, understanding the effects these treatments have on fertility potential is important for practitioners caring for transgender and gender nonbinary patients. In this review, we outline the impacts of gender-affirming treatments on fertility potential and discuss the counseling and the treatment approach for fertility preservation and/or family building in transgender and gender nonbinary individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison C Mayhew
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland
- Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, DC
| | - Veronica Gomez-Lobo
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland
- Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, DC
- Correspondence and Reprint Requests: Veronica Gomez-Lobo, MD, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Children’s National Medical Center, Division of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, 10 Central Dr, Bldg 10, Rm 8N248, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA. E-mail:
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