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Gaither TW, Williams KC, Mann C, Weimer A, Ng G, Litwin MS. Needs of transgender children and adolescents presenting to an urban gender health program. J Pediatr Urol 2024; 20:706.e1-706.e7. [PMID: 38981783 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpurol.2024.06.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Youth who identify as transgender and gender diverse (TGD) are increasingly presenting to pediatric providers. Gender-affirming surgery is often delayed until after a patient reaches the age of majority; however, patients may desire surgery at a younger age. OBJECTIVE We explore the specific clinical needs of this vulnerable population, including surgical requests. STUDY DESIGN We present a cross-sectional study of patient intake interviews at time of presentation to our gender health program from 2017 to 2020. We summarize patient demographics, medical histories, and gender-affirming care needs by gender identity and age of presentation. RESULTS Of 92 patients analyzed, those included were 19 trans girls, 55 trans boys, and 18 non-binary individuals. The median age of our sample was 15 (range 5-17). The median age (IQR) while first questioning gender was 10 (7-12). Sexual orientation was variable with 28 (43%) not sure/unknown. The majority of patients present for primary care services (grade schoolers 75%, early teens 78%, and late teens 77%, p = 0.97) and hormone management (grade schoolers 42%, early teens 62%, and late teens 77%, p = 0.06). Late teens were more likely to present for surgical services (49%) compared to grade schoolers (25%) and early teens (11%), p = 0.001. Prior psychiatric diagnoses were common in all age groups. Trans girls were interested in a variety of affirming procedures whereas trans boys and non-binary individuals primarily sought chest surgery (see summary figure). CONCLUSION Pediatric gender affirming care needs are varied and multidisciplinary within our center. By age 16, about half of TGD individuals are seeking surgical services. On average, there was a 4-5 year delay from age at first questioning one's gender and presenting to our gender health program. Primary care physicians in particular may prepare to serve this complex population by familiarizing themselves with treatment needs, including developing a network of competent surgical referrals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas W Gaither
- Department of Urology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, USA.
| | - Kristen C Williams
- Department of Urology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Christopher Mann
- Department of Urology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Amy Weimer
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Gladys Ng
- Department of Urology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Mark S Litwin
- Department of Urology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, USA; Department of Health Policy & Management, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, USA; School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles, USA
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Robinson IS, Carswell JM, Boskey E, Agarwal CA, Brassard P, Bélanger M, Zhao LC, Bluebond-Langner R. Gender-Affirming Surgery in Adolescents and Young Adults: A Review of Ethical and Surgical Considerations. Plast Reconstr Surg 2023; 152:737e-750e. [PMID: 36827481 DOI: 10.1097/prs.0000000000010325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The number of transgender adolescents seeking gender-affirming surgery (GAS) in increasing. Surgical care of the adolescent transgender patient is associated with several unique technical, legal, and ethical factors. The authors present a review of the current literature on gender-affirming surgery for individuals under the age of legal majority and propose directions for future research. METHODS A scoping review of recent literature was performed to assess evidence on gender-affirming surgery in individuals under the age of legal majority. Articles were included that examined either ethical or technical factors unique to pediatric GAS. Study characteristics and conclusions were analyzed in conjunction with expert opinion. RESULTS Twelve articles were identified that met inclusion criteria. Ten of these articles discussed ethical challenges in adolescent GAS, seven discussed legal challenges, and five discussed technical challenges. Ethical discussions focused on the principles of beneficence, nonmaleficence, and autonomy. Legal discussions centered on informed consent and insurance coverage. Technical discussions focused on the effects of puberty blockade on natal tissue. CONCLUSIONS Surgical care of the adolescent transgender patient involves important ethical, legal, and technical considerations that must be addressed by the clinical team. As the population of individuals seeking GAS after puberty blockade increases, future research is needed describing functional and psychosocial outcomes in these individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Elizabeth Boskey
- Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital
| | | | - Pierre Brassard
- Chirurgie Plastique et Esthétique, Centre Métropolitain de Chirurgie
| | - Maud Bélanger
- Chirurgie Plastique et Esthétique, Centre Métropolitain de Chirurgie
| | - Lee C Zhao
- Department of Urology, New York University Langone Health
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Earp BD, Abdulcadir J, Liao LM. Child genital cutting and surgery across cultures, sex, and gender. Part 2: assessing consent and medical necessity in "endosex" modifications. Int J Impot Res 2023; 35:1-6. [PMID: 37085735 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-023-00698-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Brian D Earp
- Uehiro Centre for Practical Ethics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | - Jasmine Abdulcadir
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals of Geneva (UHG), Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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Child genital cutting and surgery across cultures, sex, and gender. Part 1: female, male, intersex-and trans? The difficulty of drawing distinctions. Int J Impot Res 2023; 35:1-5. [PMID: 36460787 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-022-00639-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
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Abstract
Increasing numbers of transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) youth, from early puberty through late adolescence, are seeking medical services to bring their physical sex characteristics into alignment with their gender identity-their inner sense of self as male or female or elsewhere on the gender spectrum. Numerous studies, primarily of short- and medium-term duration (up to 6 years), demonstrate the clearly beneficial-even lifesaving-mental health impact of gender-affirming medical care in TGD youth. However, there are significant gaps in knowledge and challenges to such care. Long-term safety and efficacy studies are needed to optimize medical care for TGD youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Y Lee
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA; ,
- Division of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
- Endocrine and Metabolism Section, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Stephen M Rosenthal
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA; ,
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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: 648] [Impact Index Per Article: 324.0] [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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7
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Regnerus M, Vermurlen B. Attitudes in the U.S. Toward Hormonal and/or Surgical Interventions for Adolescents Experiencing Gender Dysphoria. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:1891-1902. [PMID: 35089461 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-02214-2] [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: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In order to align with their inner sense of gender identity, adolescents suffering from gender dysphoria are increasingly being treated with cross-sex hormones and irreversible surgeries to alter their bodies. The present study is the first to examine attitudes about these recently emergent medical practices in a national population. We used data from the 2018 Post-Midterm Election Study, a survey representative of adults in the USA ages 20 to 65 years (N = 5285), to examine the social factors associated with approval or disapproval of hormonal and/or surgical interventions for adolescents seeking medical treatment for gender dysphoria. Higher fertility, race/ethnicity (in this case, black), sex (male), and heterosexual self-identity were each robustly associated with disapproval. Nested regression models revealed that a range of religion measures were statistically significant (toward disapproval). However, all but evangelical self-identification were no longer significant after accounting for support for abortion rights, the spectrum of political self-identification, and voting behavior. These findings, prompted by a high percentage of variance explained, led us to consider perspectives on medical transitions for adolescents as fitting the "culture war" framework, largely polarized between a "progressive" worldview of bodily autonomy and an "orthodox" worldview of bodily integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Regnerus
- Department of Sociology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Brad Vermurlen
- Department of Sociology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
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8
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Clayton A. The Gender Affirmative Treatment Model for Youth with Gender Dysphoria: A Medical Advance or Dangerous Medicine? ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:691-698. [PMID: 34811654 PMCID: PMC8888500 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-02232-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Alison Clayton
- School of Historical and Philosophical Studies, Faculty of Arts, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia.
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9
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Kimberly L, Folkers KM, Karrington B, Wernick J, Busa S, Salas-Humara C. Navigating Evolving Ethical Questions in Decision Making for Gender-Affirming Medical Care for Adolescents. THE JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ETHICS 2021. [DOI: 10.1086/jce2021324307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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10
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Grimstad F, Boskey ER, Taghinia A, Ganor O. Gender-Affirming Surgeries in Transgender and Gender Diverse Adolescent and Young Adults: A Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology Primer. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2021; 34:442-448. [PMID: 33852937 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2021.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2020] [Revised: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Transgender and gender diverse adolescent and young adults (AYA) may seek gender-affirming surgeries (GAS) as part of their gender affirmation. A number of GAS are related to reproductive and sexual health, and pediatric and adolescent gynecology (PAG) clinicians are well positioned as sexual and reproductive health experts to provide care in this area. PAG clinicians may encounter patients presenting for preoperative counseling (including discussions regarding fertility, family building, future sexual function, and choice of oophorectomy at time of hysterectomy), requesting referrals to GAS clinicians, or requiring GAS aftercare, or those seeking general sexual and reproductive health care who have a history of GAS. This article reviews presurgical considerations for AYA seeking GAS, types of GAS, their impact on pelvic, sexual, and reproductive health, and aftercare that may involve PAG providers, with the goal of helping PAG clinicians to better understand these procedures and to empower them to engage collaboratively with GAS teams. With this knowledge, reproductive health clinicians can have an integral role as skilled collaborators in the world of AYA GAS in partnership with GAS surgeons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances Grimstad
- Division of Gynecology, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, 02115 Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, 02115 Boston, Massachusetts; Center for Gender Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, 02115 Boston, Massachusetts.
| | - Elizabeth R Boskey
- Center for Gender Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, 02115 Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, 02115 Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, 02115 Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 02115 Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Amir Taghinia
- Center for Gender Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, 02115 Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, 02115 Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, 02115 Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Oren Ganor
- Center for Gender Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, 02115 Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, 02115 Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, 02115 Boston, Massachusetts
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11
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Sood R, Jordan SW, Chen D, Chappell AG, Gangopadhyay N, Corcoran JF. Mastectomy and Chest Masculinization in Transmasculine Minors: A Case Series and Analysis by Ethical Principles. Ann Plast Surg 2021; 86:142-145. [PMID: 33449463 DOI: 10.1097/sap.0000000000002614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Mastectomy for chest masculinization is a commonly performed gender-affirming surgery in minor patients, a vulnerable population with unique developmental and psychosocial needs. We aimed to use principles of medical ethics (eg, autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice) as a framework to analyze preoperative clinical decision making by pediatric plastic surgeons who work with transmasculine and nonbinary adolescents designated female at birth presenting for chest masculinization. Two patients were selected for inclusion in this case series based on the senior author's (J.F.C.) clinical experience. A retrospective chart review was conducted to extract relevant psychosocial and clinical information from clinic notes and supplemental documentation (eg, letters from outside providers) available in the electronic medical record. In case A, a 17-year-old patient presented to a plastic surgery clinic with mixed parental support and restrictive insurance requirements. In case B, a 16-year-old patient presented to the emergency room after an attempt to remove his own breasts. The cases highlight the role of the plastic surgeon in advocating for adolescent autonomy and justice by facilitating shared family decision making and navigating barriers to care. In addition, we recommend multidisciplinary care, including trusted, transcompetent mental health professionals, to ensure beneficence and nonmaleficence by providing timely care when appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachita Sood
- From the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Sumanas W Jordan
- From the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | | | - Ava G Chappell
- From the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Noopur Gangopadhyay
- Division of Pediatric Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Julia F Corcoran
- Division of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Cosmetic Surgery, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL
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12
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Margulies IG, Chuang C, Travieso R, Zhu V, Persing JA, Steinbacher DM, Zellner EG. Preferences of Transgender and Gender-Nonconforming Persons in Gender-Confirming Surgical Care: A Cross-Sectional Study. Ann Plast Surg 2021; 86:82-88. [PMID: 32187073 DOI: 10.1097/sap.0000000000002351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Increased awareness for transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals may lead to increased demand for surgical interventions in gender-confirming care. However, limited literature exists regarding transgender and gender-nonconforming preferences and experiences with medical or surgical care. The authors aim to characterize the medical and surgical care sought by this population, as well as their surgical preferences, motivations, and barriers to care. METHODS An online questionnaire about opinions and personal experiences with medical and surgical care during gender transition was publicized via regional online social networking forums in Connecticut and surrounding areas catering to transgender communities. RESULTS Responses were received from 313 participants. Participants were 97% male gender at birth and 92% white with an average (SD) age of 51.6 (13.5) years. Fifty-nine percent identified as male-to-female transgender and 20% as gender nonconforming. Respondents were aware of their gender identity at a mean (SD) age of 9.6 (9.0) years, but did not begin transitioning until a mean (SD) age of 38.9 (20.8) years, with gender-nonconforming respondents choosing to transition at a significantly younger age as compared with transgender respondents (29.8 vs 41.4 years; P = 0.0061, unpaired t test). Only 42% of all respondents, with a significantly greater number of transgender as opposed to gender-nonconforming individuals, had previously met with a physician to discuss transitioning (49% vs 21%, P = 0.002, χ test). Eight percent of the study population had undergone gender confirmation surgery (GCS), 52% were interested in GCS, and 40% were not interested in GCS. Primary motivation for GCS included discomfort in one's current body (28%), and barriers to GCS included cost (40%) and reactions of family (40%), partners (32%), and friends (25%). CONCLUSIONS Transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals lack medical support for gender transition, with fewer than half of survey respondents reporting a prior meeting with a physician to discuss transitioning. The reported perspectives offer important insight into transgender preferences that should act as the basis of future efforts to improve the efficacy of gender-confirming care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Victor Zhu
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
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13
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Abstract
In this paper the author argues that trans-identification and its associated medical treatment can constitute an attempt to evade experiences of psychological distress. This occurs on three levels. Firstly, the trans person themselves may seek to evade dysregulated affects associated with such experiences as attachment trauma, childhood abuse, and ego-alien sexual feelings. Secondly, therapists may attempt to evade feelings, such as fear and hatred, evoked by engaging with these dysregulated affects. Thirdly, we, as a society, may wish to evade acknowledging the reality of such trauma, abuse and sexual distress by hypothesizing that trans-identification is a biological issue, best treated medically. The author argues that the quality of evidence supporting the biomedical approach is extremely poor. This puts young trans people at risk of receiving potentially damaging medical treatment they may later seek to reverse or come to regret, while their underlying psychological issues remain unaddressed.
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14
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Rafferty JR, Donaldson AA, Forcier M. Primary Care Considerations for Transgender and Gender-Diverse Youth. Pediatr Rev 2020; 41:437-454. [PMID: 32873559 DOI: 10.1542/pir.2018-0194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jason R Rafferty
- Thundermist Health Centers, Woonsocket, RI.,Rhode Island Hospital/Hasbro Children's Hospital, Providence, RI.,Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
| | - Abigail A Donaldson
- Rhode Island Hospital/Hasbro Children's Hospital, Providence, RI.,Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
| | - Michelle Forcier
- Rhode Island Hospital/Hasbro Children's Hospital, Providence, RI.,Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
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15
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Roque RA. Transgender pediatric surgical patients-Important perioperative considerations. Paediatr Anaesth 2020; 30:520-528. [PMID: 32112589 DOI: 10.1111/pan.13845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Transgender describes a variety of identities in which an individual's gender identity is different from expected based on the sex assigned at birth. In the United States, it is estimated that over 1 million adults and 150 000 youth identify as transgender, with increasing numbers being seen in healthcare and surgical settings. These numbers will continue to rise as visibility and acceptance grow. Current guidelines recommend transition-related surgeries be reserved for older adolescents and adults. However, this is not the only circumstance in which the pediatric anesthesiologist may find themselves caring for a transgender patient. In order to provide the safest and most affirming care, it is crucial that the pediatric anesthesiologist develop a working knowledge of this unique and vulnerable population, including the potential impacts of gender-affirming treatment on their perioperative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Remigio A Roque
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Seattle Children's Hospital, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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16
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Zucker KJ. Adolescents with Gender Dysphoria: Reflections on Some Contemporary Clinical and Research Issues. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2019; 48:1983-1992. [PMID: 31321594 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-01518-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Revised: 07/09/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
This article provides an overview of five contemporary clinical and research issues pertaining to adolescents with a diagnosis of gender dysphoria: (1) increased referrals to specialized gender identity clinics; (2) alteration in the sex ratio; (3) suicidality; (4) "rapid-onset gender dysphoria" (ROGD) as a new developmental pathway; (5) and best practice clinical care for adolescents who may have ROGD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth J Zucker
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada.
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17
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Salas-Humara C, Sequeira GM, Rossi W, Dhar CP. Gender affirming medical care of transgender youth. Curr Probl Pediatr Adolesc Health Care 2019; 49:100683. [PMID: 31735692 PMCID: PMC8496167 DOI: 10.1016/j.cppeds.2019.100683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The number of gender diverse and transgender youth presenting for treatment are increasing. This is a vulnerable population with unique medical needs; it is essential that all pediatricians attain an adequate level of knowledge and comfort caring for these youth so that their health outcomes may be improved. There are several organizations which provide clinical practice guidelines for the treatment of transgender youth including the WPATH and the Endocrine Society and they recommend that certain eligibility criteria should be met prior to initiation of gender affirming hormones. Medical intervention for transgender youth can be broken down into stages based on pubertal development: pre-pubertal, pubertal and post-pubertal. Pre-pubertally no medical intervention is recommended. Once puberty has commenced, youth are eligible for puberty blockers; and post-pubertally, youth are eligible for feminizing and masculinizing hormone regimens. Treatment with gonadotropin releasing hormone agonists are used to block puberty. Their function is many-fold: to pause puberty so that the youth may explore their gender identity, to delay the development of (irreversible) secondary sex characteristics, and to obviate the need for future gender affirmation surgeries. Masculinizing hormone regimens consists of testosterone and feminizing hormone regimens consist of both estradiol as well as spironolactone. In short term studies gender affirming hormone treatment with both estradiol and testosterone has been found to be safe and improve mental health and quality of life outcomes; additional long term studies are needed to further elucidate the implications of gender affirming hormones on physical and mental health in transgender patients. There are a variety of surgeries that transgender individuals may desire in order to affirm their gender identity; it is important for providers to understand that desire for medical interventions is variable among persons and that a discussion about individual desires for surgical options is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Salas-Humara
- NYU School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Adolescent Medicine, New York, NY, United States.
| | - Gina M Sequeira
- UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Center for Adolescent and Young Adult Health, United States
| | - Wilma Rossi
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, United States
| | - Cherie Priya Dhar
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, United States
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18
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Boskey ER, Johnson JA, Harrison C, Marron JM, Abecassis L, Scobie-Carroll A, Willard J, Diamond DA, Taghinia AH, Ganor O. Ethical Issues Considered When Establishing a Pediatrics Gender Surgery Center. Pediatrics 2019; 143:peds.2018-3053. [PMID: 31085738 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2018-3053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
As part of establishing a gender surgery center at a pediatric academic hospital, we undertook a process of identifying key ethical, legal, and contextual issues through collaboration among clinical providers, review by hospital leadership, discussions with key staff and hospital support services, consultation with the hospital's ethics committee, outreach to other institutions providing transgender health care, and meetings with hospital legal counsel. This process allowed the center to identify key issues, formulate approaches to resolving those issues, and develop policies and procedures addressing stakeholder concerns. Key issues identified during the process included the appropriateness of providing gender-affirming surgeries to adolescents and adults, given the hospital's mission and emphasis on pediatric services; the need for education on the clinical basis for offered procedures; methods for obtaining adequate informed consent and assent; the lower and upper acceptable age limits for various procedures; the role of psychological assessments in determining surgical eligibility; the need for coordinated, multidisciplinary patient care; and the importance of addressing historical access inequities affecting transgender patients. The process also facilitated the development of policies addressing the identified issues, articulation of a guiding mission statement, institution of ongoing educational opportunities for hospital staff, beginning outreach to the community, and guidance as to future avenues of research and policy development. Given the sensitive nature of the center's services and the significant clinical, ethical, and legal issues involved, we recommend such a process when a establishing a program for gender surgery in a pediatric institution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth R Boskey
- Center for Gender Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; and
| | | | | | - Jonathan M Marron
- Ethics Advisory Committee.,Office of Ethics, and.,Division of Hematology/Oncology.,Center for Bioethics, Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | | | - Julian Willard
- Center for Bioethics, Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - David A Diamond
- Center for Gender Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; and
| | - Amir H Taghinia
- Center for Gender Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; and
| | - Oren Ganor
- Center for Gender Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; and
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19
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Mahfouda S, Moore JK, Siafarikas A, Hewitt T, Ganti U, Lin A, Zepf FD. Gender-affirming hormones and surgery in transgender children and adolescents. Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol 2019; 7:484-498. [PMID: 30528161 DOI: 10.1016/s2213-8587(18)30305-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Revised: 09/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guidelines on the treatment of gender incongruent people recommend the use of gender-affirming cross-sex hormone (CSH) interventions in transgender children and adolescents who request this treatment, who have undergone psychiatric assessment, and have maintained a persistent transgender identity. The intervention can help to affirm gender identity by inducing masculine or feminine physical characteristics that are congruent with an individual's gender expression, while aiming to improve mental health and quality-of-life outcomes. Some transgender individuals might also wish to access gender-affirming surgeries during adolescence; however, research to inform best clinical practice for surgeons and other medical professionals is scarce. This Review explores the available published evidence on gender-affirming CSH and surgical interventions in transgender children and adolescents, amalgamating findings on mental health outcomes, cognitive and physical effects, side-effects, and safety variables. The small amount of available data suggest that when clearly indicated in accordance with international guidelines, gender-affirming CSHs and chest wall masculinisation in transgender males are associated with improvements in mental health and quality of life. Evidence regarding surgical vaginoplasty in transgender females younger than age 18 years remains extremely scarce and conclusions cannot yet be drawn regarding its risks and benefits in this age group. Further research on an international scale is urgently warranted to clarify long-term outcomes on psychological functioning and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Mahfouda
- Centre and Discipline of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Division of Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences and Division of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia; Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia; School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Julia K Moore
- Centre and Discipline of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Division of Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences and Division of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia; Gender Diversity Service, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service, Child and Adolescent Health Service, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Aris Siafarikas
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia; Division of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia; Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Perth Children's Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Timothy Hewitt
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Perth Children's Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Uma Ganti
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Perth Children's Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Ashleigh Lin
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Florian Daniel Zepf
- Centre and Discipline of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Division of Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences and Division of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia; Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia; Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Germany.
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20
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Bailey JM. How to Ruin Sex Research. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2019; 48:1007-1011. [PMID: 30790207 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-1420-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- J Michael Bailey
- Department of Psychology, Northwestern University, 2029 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA.
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21
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Wren B. Ethical issues arising in the provision of medical interventions for gender diverse children and adolescents. Clin Child Psychol Psychiatry 2019; 24:203-222. [PMID: 30968724 DOI: 10.1177/1359104518822694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The care of children and adolescents whose experience of the body is at odds with their gender feelings raises a number of questions that are as much ethical as medical or psychological. In this article I highlight some areas of ethical concern from the point of view of a senior clinician at the nationally commissioned UK Gender Identity Development Service (GIDS). I make the assumption that ethical deliberation is relational and grounded in the natural, social, political and institutional worlds in which the ethical questions arise. I try to show how matters of empirical fact, alongside an appreciation of broad social contexts, and historic and current power relations, provide an essential framework for the ways that ethical choices are framed by key groups of people as they take up different, sometimes opposing, ethical positions. I argue that practising ethically in such a service is not helpfully reduced to a single event, a treatment decision aimed at achieving the morally 'right' outcome, but an extended process in time. In the charged debate surrounding the recognition of these young people's needs, we must do more to promote responsible debate about the scope of sound ethical practice.
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22
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Plemons E. A Capable Surgeon and a Willing Electrologist: Challenges to the Expansion of Transgender Surgical Care in the United States. Med Anthropol Q 2019; 33:282-301. [PMID: 30407663 DOI: 10.1111/maq.12484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2018] [Revised: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Since 2014, public and private insurance coverage for transgender Americans' surgical care has increased exponentially. Training clinicians and equipping institutions to meet the surge in demand has not been as rapid. Through ethnographic research at a surgical workshop focused on trans- genital reconstruction and in a U.S. hospital working to grow its transgender health program, this article shows that effects of the decades-long insurance exclusion of trans- surgery are not easily remedied through the recent event of its inclusion because patient access is not the only thing that has been restricted by coverage denial. Decades of excluding coverage for trans- genital reconstructive surgery have limited the development and circulation of technical skills required to perform these procedures, as well as the administrative processes needed to integrate them into existing clinical workflows. One surgeon estimates that turning expanded access into realized care is "a five or six-year problem."
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23
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Kimberly LL, Folkers KM, Friesen P, Sultan D, Quinn GP, Bateman-House A, Parent B, Konnoth C, Janssen A, Shah LD, Bluebond-Langner R, Salas-Humara C. Ethical Issues in Gender-Affirming Care for Youth. Pediatrics 2018; 142:peds.2018-1537. [PMID: 30401789 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2018-1537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Transgender and gender-nonconforming (TGNC) youth who suffer from gender dysphoria are at a substantially elevated risk of numerous adverse physical and psychosocial outcomes compared with their cisgender peers. Innovative treatment options used to support and affirm an individual's preferred gender identity can help resolve gender dysphoria and avoid many negative sequelae of nontreatment. Yet, despite advances in these relatively novel treatment options, which appear to be highly effective in addressing gender dysphoria and mitigating associated adverse outcomes, ethical challenges abound in ensuring that young patients receive appropriate, safe, affordable treatment and that access to this treatment is fair and equitable. Ethical considerations in gender-affirming care for TGNC youth span concerns about meeting the obligations to maximize treatment benefit to patients (beneficence), minimizing harm (nonmaleficence), supporting autonomy for pediatric patients during a time of rapid development, and addressing justice, including equitable access to care for TGNC youth. Moreover, although available data describing the use of gender-affirming treatment options are encouraging, and the risks of not treating TGNC youth with gender dysphoria are evident, little is known about the long-term effects of both hormonal and surgical interventions in this population. To support ethical decision-making about treatment options, we encourage the development of a comprehensive registry in the United States to track long-term patient outcomes. In the meantime, providers who work with TGNC youth and their families should endeavor to offer ethically sound, patient-centered, gender-affirming care based on the best currently available evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura L Kimberly
- Division of Medical Ethics, Department of Population Health.,Hansjörg Wyss Department of Plastic Surgery, and
| | | | - Phoebe Friesen
- Ethox Centre, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; and
| | | | - Gwendolyn P Quinn
- Division of Medical Ethics, Department of Population Health.,Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology
| | | | - Brendan Parent
- Division of Medical Ethics, Department of Population Health
| | - Craig Konnoth
- Colorado Law, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado
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Kyweluk MA, Sajwani A, Chen D. Freezing for the future: Transgender youth respond to medical fertility preservation. Int J Transgend 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/15532739.2018.1505575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Moira A. Kyweluk
- Department of Anthropology, Northwestern University Evanston, IL, USA
- Program in Public Health, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Chicago, IL USA
| | - Afiya Sajwani
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Diane Chen
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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25
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Rafferty J. Ensuring Comprehensive Care and Support for Transgender and Gender-Diverse Children and Adolescents. Pediatrics 2018; 142:e20182162. [PMID: 30224363 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2018-2162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 290] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
As a traditionally underserved population that faces numerous health disparities, youth who identify as transgender and gender diverse (TGD) and their families are increasingly presenting to pediatric providers for education, care, and referrals. The need for more formal training, standardized treatment, and research on safety and medical outcomes often leaves providers feeling ill equipped to support and care for patients that identify as TGD and families. In this policy statement, we review relevant concepts and challenges and provide suggestions for pediatric providers that are focused on promoting the health and positive development of youth that identify as TGD while eliminating discrimination and stigma.
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26
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Telfer MM, Tollit MA, Pace CC, Pang KC. Australian standards of care and treatment guidelines for transgender and gender diverse children and adolescents. Med J Aust 2018; 209:132-136. [DOI: 10.5694/mja17.01044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Michelle A Tollit
- Royal Childrenˈs Hospital Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC
- Murdoch Childrenˈs Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC
| | - Carmen C Pace
- Royal Childrenˈs Hospital Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC
- Murdoch Childrenˈs Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC
| | - Ken C Pang
- Royal Childrenˈs Hospital Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC
- Murdoch Childrenˈs Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC
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27
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Becerra-Culqui TA, Liu Y, Nash R, Cromwell L, Flanders WD, Getahun D, Giammattei SV, Hunkeler EM, Lash TL, Millman A, Quinn VP, Robinson B, Roblin D, Sandberg DE, Silverberg MJ, Tangpricha V, Goodman M. Mental Health of Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Youth Compared With Their Peers. Pediatrics 2018; 141:e20173845. [PMID: 29661941 PMCID: PMC5914494 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2017-3845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 189] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding the magnitude of mental health problems, particularly life-threatening ones, experienced by transgender and/or gender nonconforming (TGNC) youth can lead to improved management of these conditions. METHODS Electronic medical records were used to identify a cohort of 588 transfeminine and 745 transmasculine children (3-9 years old) and adolescents (10-17 years old) enrolled in integrated health care systems in California and Georgia. Ten male and 10 female referent cisgender enrollees were matched to each TGNC individual on year of birth, race and/or ethnicity, study site, and membership year of the index date (first evidence of gender nonconforming status). Prevalence ratios were calculated by dividing the proportion of TGNC individuals with a specific mental health diagnosis or diagnostic category by the corresponding proportion in each reference group by transfeminine and/or transmasculine status, age group, and time period before the index date. RESULTS Common diagnoses for children and adolescents were attention deficit disorders (transfeminine 15%; transmasculine 16%) and depressive disorders (transfeminine 49%; transmasculine 62%), respectively. For all diagnostic categories, prevalence was severalfold higher among TGNC youth than in matched reference groups. Prevalence ratios (95% confidence intervals [CIs]) for history of self-inflicted injury in adolescents 6 months before the index date ranged from 18 (95% CI 4.4-82) to 144 (95% CI 36-1248). The corresponding range for suicidal ideation was 25 (95% CI 14-45) to 54 (95% CI 18-218). CONCLUSIONS TGNC youth may present with mental health conditions requiring immediate evaluation and implementation of clinical, social, and educational gender identity support measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy A Becerra-Culqui
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, California
| | - Yuan Liu
- Departments of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics and
| | - Rebecca Nash
- Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, and
| | - Lee Cromwell
- Center for Clinical and Outcomes Research, Kaiser Permanente Georgia, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | - Darios Getahun
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, California
| | - Shawn V Giammattei
- Rockway Institute, Alliant International University, San Francisco, California
| | - Enid M Hunkeler
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente, Northern California, Oakland, California
| | | | - Andrea Millman
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente, Northern California, Oakland, California
| | - Virginia P Quinn
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, California
| | - Brandi Robinson
- Center for Clinical and Outcomes Research, Kaiser Permanente Georgia, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Douglas Roblin
- Mid-Atlantic Permanente Research Institute, Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic States, Rockville, Maryland
| | - David E Sandberg
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan; and
| | - Michael J Silverberg
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente, Northern California, Oakland, California
| | - Vin Tangpricha
- Emory School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
- Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Atlanta, Georgia
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28
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Ehrensaft D, Giammattei SV, Storck K, Tishelman AC, Keo-Meier C. Prepubertal social gender transitions: What we know; what we can learn—A view from a gender affirmative lens. Int J Transgend 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/15532739.2017.1414649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Diane Ehrensaft
- University of California, San Francisco, Child and Adolescent Gender Center, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Shawn V Giammattei
- Alliant International University, Rockway Institute, San Francisco, California, USA
- Quest Family Therapy, Santa Rosa, California, USA
| | | | - Amy C Tishelman
- Boston Children's Hospital, Division of Endocrinology, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Colton Keo-Meier
- Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
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29
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van der Sluis WB, Pavan N, Liguori G, Bucci S, Bizic MR, Kojovic V, Hess J, Meijerink WJ, Mullender MG, Özer M, Smit JM, Buncamper ME, Krege S, Djordjevic ML, Trombetta C, Bouman MB. Ileal vaginoplasty as vaginal reconstruction in transgender women and patients with disorders of sex development: an international, multicentre, retrospective study on surgical characteristics and outcomes. BJU Int 2018; 121:952-958. [DOI: 10.1111/bju.14155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Wouter B. van der Sluis
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery; VU University Medical Center; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Nicola Pavan
- Urology Clinic; Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Science; University of Trieste; Trieste Italy
| | - Giovanni Liguori
- Urology Clinic; Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Science; University of Trieste; Trieste Italy
| | - Stefano Bucci
- Urology Clinic; Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Science; University of Trieste; Trieste Italy
| | - Marta R. Bizic
- School of Medicine; University of Belgrade; Belgrade Serbia
| | | | - Jochen Hess
- Department of Urology; University Hospital Essen; Essen Germany
| | - Wilhelmus J.H.J. Meijerink
- Department of Gastro-Intestinal Surgery and Advanced Laparoscopy; VU University Medical Center; Amsterdam The Netherlands
- Department of Operation Rooms; Radboud University Medical Centre; Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Margriet G. Mullender
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery; VU University Medical Center; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Müjde Özer
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery; VU University Medical Center; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Jan Maerten Smit
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery; VU University Medical Center; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Marlon E. Buncamper
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery; VU University Medical Center; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Susanne Krege
- Department of Urology; Kliniken Essen Mitte; Essen Germany
| | | | - Carlo Trombetta
- Urology Clinic; Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Science; University of Trieste; Trieste Italy
| | - Mark-Bram Bouman
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery; VU University Medical Center; Amsterdam The Netherlands
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30
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Chen D, Edwards-Leeper L, Stancin T, Tishelman A. Advancing the Practice of Pediatric Psychology with Transgender Youth: State of the Science, Ongoing Controversies, and Future Directions. CLINICAL PRACTICE IN PEDIATRIC PSYCHOLOGY 2018; 6:73-83. [PMID: 29808159 DOI: 10.1037/cpp0000229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Growing numbers of transgender and gender-nonconforming (TGNC) youth are presenting for medical and mental health care, and increasingly, pediatric psychologists are being called upon to serve as critical members of interdisciplinary care teams. In this commentary, we present information on TGNC youth in three distinct developmental cohorts: prepubescent TGNC children, peripubertal TGNC youth, and pubertal TGNC adolescents. First, we describe the social, medical, and/or surgical treatments available to each cohort of youth. Next, we address the state of the science related to these treatments. Then, we highlight some of the ongoing controversies related to social, medical and/or surgical interventions that are most relevant to pediatric psychologists and the role they play in gender-affirming care. Finally, we conclude with a call for papers for an upcoming special issue of Clinical Practice in Pediatric Psychology focused on advancing the practice of pediatric psychology in transgender health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane Chen
- Division of Adolescent Medicine and Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, and Departments of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, and Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
| | | | - Terry Stancin
- Departments of Psychiatry, Pediatrics & Psychology at MetroHealth Medical Center and Case Western Reserve Medical School
| | - Amy Tishelman
- Departments of Psychiatry and Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School
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31
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Nahata L, Chelvakumar G, Leibowitz S. Gender-Affirming Pharmacological Interventions for Youth With Gender Dysphoria: When Treatment Guidelines Are Not Enough. Ann Pharmacother 2017; 51:1023-1032. [PMID: 28660776 DOI: 10.1177/1060028017718845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Youth with gender dysphoria, also known as transgender youth, are increasingly presenting to multidisciplinary clinics within academic pediatric centers across the United States. Gender-affirming pharmacological interventions for adolescents with gender dysphoria may be used to promote positive psychological well-being and mental health outcomes. Interventions range from completely reversible to partially irreversible, based on the age and sexual maturity of the adolescent. For each intervention, dilemmas and controversies exist regarding age at treatment initiation, treatment duration, safety, and cost. Pharmacists' awareness of these considerations and interventions is important when providing evidence-based gender-affirming care to this underserved population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leena Nahata
- 1 The Ohio State University/Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.,2 Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | - Scott Leibowitz
- 1 The Ohio State University/Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
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