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Corbett BA, Muscatello RA, Cyperski M, Sadikova E, Edmiston EK, McGonigle TW, Calvosa R, Vandekar S. Gender diversity in autistic and neurotypical youth over adolescence and puberty: A longitudinal study. Autism Res 2024; 17:1450-1463. [PMID: 38661056 DOI: 10.1002/aur.3141] [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: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Recent research in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has suggested a higher prevalence of gender diversity in individuals diagnosed with ASD. Adolescence is a critical period for the consolidation of gender identity, yet the extent to which the experience of gender diversity is stable over adolescence and puberty in autistic youth is poorly understood. The aim of the study was to examine the consistency of gender diversity using the gender diversity screening questionnaire for self- and parent-report of youth (GDSQ-S, GDSQ-P) over a four-year longitudinal study of pubertal development in youth with ASD (N = 140, 36 assigned-female-at birth (AFAB)) and typical development (TD, N = 104, 58 assigned-male-at-birth [AMAB]) and their parents. The extent to which diagnosis (ASD vs. TD), assigned sex (AFAB vs. AMAB) and developmental level (age, puberty) predict GDSQ trajectory over time was explored. There was a significant diagnosis by sex-assigned-at-birth by age interaction for GDSQ-S Gender Diversity, p = 0.002, showing higher scores in autistic AFAB youth over adolescence, and TD AFAB showing initially lower, then increasing levels over adolescence. For GDSQ-P, Gender Incongruence was significantly different between the groups, p = 0.032, showing higher incongruence for autistic AFAB around age 10, decreasing between age 12-14 before increasing again, while TD AFAB evidence the inverse trend. AMAB trends were stable. The significant diagnostic, developmental and sex-based differences indicate AFAB youth experience greater gender diversity that evolves over development. Findings suggest gender identity formation is nuanced and may be influenced by pubertal progression, hormonal patterns, and psychosocial factors. Results underscore the need for enhanced understanding of the unique, dynamic profiles of females-assigned-at-birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blythe A Corbett
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Department of Psychology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Rachael A Muscatello
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Melissa Cyperski
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Eleonora Sadikova
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - E Kale Edmiston
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Massachusetts Chan School of Medicine, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Trey William McGonigle
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Rachel Calvosa
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Simon Vandekar
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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Altabas V, Galjuf V, Žegura I, Jokić Begić N, Moravek D, Arbanas G, Begić D. Referrals For Gender-Affirming Hormone Treatment in Croatia's National Network for Transgender Healthcare. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2024; 53:2045-2052. [PMID: 38691268 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-024-02867-9] [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: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
A network of healthcare professionals specializing in transgender care was established in Croatia in 2011, and legal advancements were subsequently made in 2014. Both achievements made gender transition more transparent and thus more attainable in Croatia. This observational study was conducted to assess the number of transgender individuals initiating gender-affirming hormone treatment (GAHT) in Croatia and describes trends in age and sex assigned at birth. Between 2011 and 2022, a total of 111 transgender individuals initiated GAHT. Within the cohort, 52 were assigned male at birth (AMAB) and 59 were assigned female at birth (AFAB). The overall annual incidence rate of transgender individuals initiating GAHT was 0.52 per 100,000 age-adjusted individuals. There was a statistically significant increase (p < 0.01) in transgender individuals commencing GAHT before the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, a rising trend toward masculinizing rather than feminizing treatment was identified (p < 0.05), particularly among younger transgender individuals. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted these trends in 2020, except for the trend of initiating therapy at a younger age (p < 0.01). The annual incidence and age distribution trends of transgender individuals initiating GAHT in Croatia closely mirrored those in other European countries, with a higher prevalence of individuals assigned female at birth. The study underscores a significant rise in the number of individuals initiating gender-affirming hormone treatment, emphasizing the need for proper legal regulation and healthcare system response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Velimir Altabas
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Sestre Milosrdnice UHC, Vinogradska Cesta 29, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Vesna Galjuf
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Iva Žegura
- Vrapče University Psychiatric Hospital Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nataša Jokić Begić
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Goran Arbanas
- Vrapče University Psychiatric Hospital Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Dražen Begić
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, Zagreb UHC, Zagreb, Croatia
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Jurek L, De la Chenelière M, Lapoirie M, Neuville P. Research priorities in trans health: a Delphi-study. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1307531. [PMID: 38680933 PMCID: PMC11045899 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1307531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Progress has been made in understanding trans health needs, but research priorities are often set by policy or healthcare professionals without trans input, which may not reflect public needs. Our study sought to identify trans health research priorities in France from both researchers and the trans community. Methods Expert stakeholders (health and social sciences professionals, trans individuals, and their families) answered a three-round Delphi survey on trans health research priorities. The first round involved an open-ended questionnaire, analyzed qualitatively. In the second round, participants ranked research propositions from round one using a Likert scale. The study's second phase involved a two-hour workshop with experts and trans individuals. Results 53 participants (32% trans individuals/relatives, 60% health professionals) contributed 217 responses to open-ended questions, leading to 44 research priorities. After the two voting rounds, a total of five proposals reached a strong consensus cut-off and were considered as the main research priorities: evaluation of the effect of puberty blocker use in trans children and adolescents (95%), evaluation of the effect of supporting trans children and adolescents (92%), study of the support systems available for trans youth and their parents (86%), persistence of trans identity around puberty (prevalence, persistent persons characteristics) (86%), and needs assessment survey of the support for adolescents and their families (83%). Thirteen other proposals were considered moderate priorities. Conclusion The main consensus in our French study concerned research on trans-youth care and support needs. Our results may guide further trans-health research that meets the public's needs and desires.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Jurek
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Centre Hospitalier Le Vinatier, Bron, France
- RESHAPE, Research on Healthcare Performance, Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University, Lyon, France
| | | | - Marion Lapoirie
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Femme-mère-enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
| | - Paul Neuville
- Urology Department, Hôpital Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
- Claude Bernard University Lyon 1, Lyon, France
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Tyni K, Wurm M, Nordström T, Bratt AS. A systematic review and qualitative research synthesis of the lived experiences and coping of transgender and gender diverse youth 18 years or younger. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF TRANSGENDER HEALTH 2024; 25:352-388. [PMID: 39055629 PMCID: PMC11268253 DOI: 10.1080/26895269.2023.2295379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Background Research on the daily experiences of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) youth 18 years or younger is limited, making it essential to gain a comprehensive understanding of their internal and external experiences related to gender identity. Aim This systematic review and qualitative research synthesis fills this research gap by examining the lived experiences and coping of TGD youth, including prepubertal children. Methods The review was pre-registered according to PROSPERO on the Open Science Framework and followed the ENTREQ reporting guidelines. A Qualitative research synthesis, according to Howell Major and Savin-Baden, was conducted. Results Seventeen peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2023 fulfilled inclusion criteria and quality assessment. Synthesized themes were: (1) "Navigating gender identity", with two sub-themes, Meaning-making and Considering visibility (2) "Navigating relations", with four sub-themes: Longing for belonging, Supportive actions, Lack of safety and Coping inside out (3) "Navigating society with two sub-themes Inclusion and exclusion and Beyond control. Our findings demonstrate that TGD youth view gender identity as fluid and benefit from a supportive environment that facilitates genuine exploration. Coping strategies develop intricately, influenced by multifaceted factors. Discussion Unlike previous research on the negative effects of minority stress, our review underscores the cumulative impact of subtle daily stressors on TGD youth's well-being, highlighting the significance of an environment where gender is not a constant concern. By shedding light on these dynamics, this synthesis contributes to a comprehensive understanding of TGD youth's perspectives for professionals and a broader audience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristiina Tyni
- Department of Psychology, Linnaeus University, Växjö, Sweden
| | - Matilda Wurm
- School of Behavioral, Social and Legal Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
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Koops TU, Andresen JB, Graugaard C, Briken P, Bahnsen MK, Andersson M, Frisch M. Associations between recalled childhood gender nonconformity and adult sexual dysfunction in Denmark: baseline assessment in the Project SEXUS cohort study. J Sex Med 2023; 20:1451-1458. [PMID: 37812247 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdad129] [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: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual dysfunctions may negatively affect an individual's self-perceived womanhood or manhood, but whether gender nonconformity in childhood or adolescence can influence adult sexual functioning has not been examined so far. AIM To explore the possible link between recalled childhood gender nonconformity and sexual dysfunctions in adulthood in a large sample. METHODS We analyzed baseline questionnaire data from Project SEXUS, a nationally representative cohort study on sexual health among 15- to 89-year-old Danish citizens. Our sample included sexually active participants aged ≥18 years who were queried about gender nonconformity in childhood or adolescence (N = 21 390). To capture sexual dysfunctions, we assessed (1) difficulties with lubrication, orgasm, vaginal cramps precluding sexual intercourse, and/or genital pain during partnered sexual activity in women and (2) difficulties with erection, premature ejaculation, orgasm, and/or genital pain during partnered sexual activity in men. Furthermore, we assessed whether such difficulties were perceived as problematic. The 6-item Female Sexual Function Index and the 5-item International Index of Erectile Function served as standardized measures. Polytomous logistic regression analyses yielded demographically weighted adjusted odds ratios (aORs) with 95% CIs for associations between childhood gender nonconformity and sexual dysfunctions, controlling for age, sociodemographics, health-related factors, and other potential confounders. OUTCOMES Sexual difficulties and dysfunctions, as well as scores on the Female Sexual Function Index and International Index of Erectile Function. RESULTS Age-adjusted odds ratios indicated that sexual dysfunctions were significantly more common among childhood gender-nonconforming than conforming participants. After controlling for additional potential confounders, most sexual dysfunctions-notably, vaginal cramps in women (aOR, 2.12; 95% CI, 1.25-3.60) and genital pain dysfunction in men (aOR, 2.99; 95% CI, 1.79-4.99)-remained significantly increased among childhood gender-nonconforming respondents. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Findings suggest that self-perceived gender nonconformity in childhood or adolescence may negatively affect sexual functioning in adult life. If confirmed by future studies, they may warrant a clinical emphasis on such issues in sexologic treatment and care. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS Our study is the first to report associations between childhood gender nonconformity and adult sexual dysfunction, building on data from a large-scale, nationally representative cohort study. The retrospective assessment of childhood gender nonconformity via one item might have neglected significant dimensions of this construct. CONCLUSION The present study is the first to show that individuals who recall being gender nonconforming in childhood or adolescence may be at a greater risk of experiencing sexual dysfunctions, particularly sexual pain disorders, as adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thula U Koops
- Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine, and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, D-20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Josefine Bernhard Andresen
- Project SEXUS Group, Department of Epidemiology Research, Statens Serum Institut, DK-2300 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Sexology Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, DK-9000 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Christian Graugaard
- Center for Sexology Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, DK-9000 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Peer Briken
- Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine, and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, D-20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mikkel Kjær Bahnsen
- Project SEXUS Group, Department of Epidemiology Research, Statens Serum Institut, DK-2300 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mikael Andersson
- Project SEXUS Group, Department of Epidemiology Research, Statens Serum Institut, DK-2300 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Morten Frisch
- Project SEXUS Group, Department of Epidemiology Research, Statens Serum Institut, DK-2300 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Sexology Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, DK-9000 Aalborg, Denmark
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Goodman M, Angus L. Investigating effectiveness of gender-affirming care: study design considerations. Eur J Endocrinol 2023; 189:R15-R16. [PMID: 37956456 DOI: 10.1093/ejendo/lvad154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Goodman
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
| | - Lachlan Angus
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
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Heinz A, Költő A, Taylor AB, Chan A. "Are You a Boy or a Girl?"-A Missing Response Analysis. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1695. [PMID: 37892357 PMCID: PMC10605027 DOI: 10.3390/children10101695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Many adolescent health surveys ask if respondents are male or female. Non-response may be due to fear of de-anonymisation or being a gender-nonconforming youth. The present study investigates the frequency of non-response and its potential reasons. To this end, data from 54,833 adolescents aged 11-18 from six countries, participating in the 2018 Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study, were analysed. Respondents were divided into three groups: (1) "Responders" who answered both questions on age and gender, (2) "Age non-responders" who did not answer the question on age, and (3) "Gender non-responders" who answered the question on age but not the one on gender. These groups were compared regarding their non-response to other questions and regarding their health. Overall, 98.0% were responders, 1.6% were age non-responders and 0.4% were gender non-responders. On average, age non-responders skipped more questions (4.2 out or 64) than gender non-responders (3.2) and responders (2.1). Gender non-responders reported more psychosomatic complaints, more frequent substance use and lower family support than responders. This study shows that age and gender non-responders differ in their response styles, suggesting different reasons for skipping the gender question. The health disparities found between the groups suggest that further research should use a more nuanced approach, informed by LGBT+ youth's insights, to measure sex assigned at birth and gender identity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Heinz
- Department of Health, IU International University of Applied Sciences, Juri-Gagarin Ring 152, 99084 Erfurt, Germany
| | - András Költő
- Health Promotion Research Centre, National University of Ireland, University Rd., H91 TK33 Galway, Ireland;
| | - Ashley B. Taylor
- Stigma and Resilience Among Vulnerable Youth Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Ace Chan
- Stigma and Resilience Among Vulnerable Youth Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
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Marconi E, Monti L, Marfoli A, Kotzalidis GD, Janiri D, Cianfriglia C, Moriconi F, Costa S, Veredice C, Sani G, Chieffo DPR. A systematic review on gender dysphoria in adolescents and young adults: focus on suicidal and self-harming ideation and behaviours. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2023; 17:110. [PMID: 37735422 PMCID: PMC10515052 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-023-00654-3] [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: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gender dysphoria (GD) is characterized by the incongruence between one's experienced and expressed gender and assigned-sex-at-birth; it is associated with clinically significant distress. In recent years, the number of young patients diagnosed with GD has increased considerably. Recent studies reported that GD adolescents present behavioural and emotional problems and internalizing problems. Furthermore, this population shows a prevalence of psychiatric symptoms, like depression and anxiety. Several studies showed high rates of suicidal and non-suicidal self-injurious thoughts and behaviour in GD adolescents. To increase understanding of overall mental health status and potential risks of young people with GD, this systematic review focused on risk of suicide and self-harm gestures. METHODS We followed the PRISMA 2020 statement, collecting empirical studies from four electronic databases, i.e., PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, and Web of Science. RESULTS Twenty-one studies on GD and gender nonconforming identity, suicidality, and self-harm in adolescents and young adults met inclusion criteria. Results showed that GD adolescents have more suicidal ideation, life-threatening behaviour, self-injurious thoughts or self-harm than their cisgender peers. Assessment methods were heterogeneous. CONCLUSION A standardised assessment is needed. Understanding the mental health status of transgender young people could help develop and provide effective clinical pathways and interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Marconi
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Largo Agostino Gemelli 1, 00168, Rome, Italy.
| | - Laura Monti
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Largo Agostino Gemelli 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Angelica Marfoli
- Catholic University of the Sacred Heart-Rome, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Georgios D Kotzalidis
- NESMOS Department (Neurosciences, Mental Health, and Sensory Organs), University of Rome "La Sapienza", Via Di Grottarossa1035-1039, 00198, Rome, Italy
- Department of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Head, Neck and Thorax, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Largo Agostino Gemelli 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
- Institute of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart-Rome, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Delfina Janiri
- Department of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Head, Neck and Thorax, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Largo Agostino Gemelli 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
- Institute of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart-Rome, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia Cianfriglia
- Catholic University of the Sacred Heart-Rome, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Moriconi
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Largo Agostino Gemelli 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Costa
- UOSD Operative Unit Psychiatry and Psychotherapy for Adolescents, Azienda USL Di Bologna, Ospedale MaggioreLargo Bartolo Nigrisoli, 2, 40133, Bologna, Italy
| | - Chiara Veredice
- Pediatric Neuropsychiatry Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Sani
- Department of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Head, Neck and Thorax, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Largo Agostino Gemelli 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
- Institute of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart-Rome, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Pia Rosaria Chieffo
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Largo Agostino Gemelli 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
- Departement of Life Sciences and Public Health Department, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, 00168, Rome, Italy
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Bayar E, Williams NJ, Alghrani A, Murugesu S, Saso S, Bracewell-Milnes T, Thum MY, Nicopoullos J, Sangster P, Yasmin E, Smith JR, Wilkinson S, Pacey A, Jones BP. Fertility preservation and realignment in transgender women. HUM FERTIL 2023; 26:463-482. [PMID: 36799335 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2022.2163195] [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: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
Medical care for transgender people is multi-faceted and attention to individual reproductive aspirations and planning are an essential, yet often overlooked aspect of care. Given the impact of hormonal therapy and other gender affirmation procedures on reproductive function, extensive counselling and consideration of fertility preservation is recommended prior to their commencement. This review article explores the reproductive aspirations of transgender women and considers the current disparity between stated desires regarding utilisation of fertility preservation services. Current fertility preservation options and prospective treatments currently showing promise in the research arena are explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erna Bayar
- Department of Gynaecology, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College NHS Trust, London, UK
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Nicola J Williams
- Department of Politics, Philosophy and Religion, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Amel Alghrani
- School of Law and Social Justice, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Sughashini Murugesu
- Department of Gynaecology, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College NHS Trust, London, UK
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Srdjan Saso
- Department of Gynaecology, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College NHS Trust, London, UK
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Meen-Yau Thum
- Lister Fertility Clinic, The Lister Hospital, Chelsea Bridge Road, London, UK
| | - James Nicopoullos
- Lister Fertility Clinic, The Lister Hospital, Chelsea Bridge Road, London, UK
| | - Philippa Sangster
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, University College London Hospital, London, UK
| | - Ephia Yasmin
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, University College London Hospital, London, UK
| | - J Richard Smith
- Department of Gynaecology, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College NHS Trust, London, UK
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Stephen Wilkinson
- Department of Politics, Philosophy and Religion, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Allan Pacey
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Benjamin P Jones
- Department of Gynaecology, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College NHS Trust, London, UK
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Shi R, Yeoh C, Lee J, Tan KS, Yang G, Haviland K, Walters C, Tollinche L. Perioperative Oncology Health Care Providers and Transgender Health: A Single-Institution Survey to Gauge Attitudes, Knowledge, Behaviors, and Education. Transgend Health 2023; 8:254-263. [PMID: 37342477 PMCID: PMC10277981 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2021.0001] [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] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Patients identifying as transgender report that a lack of access to providers with trans-specific medical knowledge represents one of the largest barriers to equitable health care access. Through an institutional survey, we assessed and analyzed the attitudes, knowledge, behaviors, and education of perioperative clinical staff when caring for transgender patients with cancer. Methods A web-based survey was distributed to 1100 perioperative clinical staff at the National Cancer Institute (NCI)-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in New York City between January 14, 2020, and February 28, 2020, and received 276 responses. The survey instrument consisted of 42 nondemographic questions about attitudes, knowledge, behaviors, and education regarding transgender health care and 14 demographic questions. Questions were presented as a mix of Yes/No, free text response, and a 5-point Likert scale. Results Certain demographic groups (younger, lesbian, gay, or bisexual [LGB], fewer years employment at the institution) held more favorable attitudes toward the transgender population and were more knowledgeable regarding their health needs. Respondents underreported the rates of mental illness and risk factors for cancer like HIV and substance use among the transgender population. A greater proportion of respondents identifying as LGB endorsed witnessing an interaction wherein a colleague exhibited attitudes/beliefs about the transgender population that were barriers to care. Only 23.2% of respondents were ever trained on the health needs of transgender patients. Conclusion There is a need for institutions to assess the cultural competency of perioperative clinical staff toward transgender health, especially within certain demographics. This survey may inform quality education initiatives to eliminate biases and knowledge gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Shi
- New York Medical College, School of Medicine, Valhalla, New York, USA
| | - Cindy Yeoh
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jasme Lee
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kay See Tan
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Gloria Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kelly Haviland
- Department of Supportive Care Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Chasity Walters
- Department of Patient and Caregiver Engagement, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Luis Tollinche
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
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Logel SN, Maru J, Whitehead J, Brady C, Walch A, Lasarev M, Rehm JL, Millington K. Higher Rates of Certain Autoimmune Diseases in Transgender and Gender Diverse Youth. Transgend Health 2023. [DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2022.0079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
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Cohen A, Gomez-Lobo V, Willing L, Call D, Damle LF, D'Angelo LJ, Song A, Strang JF. Shifts in Gender-Related Medical Requests by Transgender and Gender-Diverse Adolescents. J Adolesc Health 2023; 72:428-436. [PMID: 36529618 PMCID: PMC9974924 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2022.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Gender-affirming hormones and/or surgeries seeking to change the body can have potentially lasting effects. Changes in requests for these therapies among gender-diverse youth are not well-understood. The study aim is to characterize factors associated with shifts in gender-related medical requests. METHODS This mixed-methods study used retrospective chart review and qualitative interviews with clinicians. Of 130 youth receiving clinical gender care at Children's National Hospital, 68 met inclusion criteria. Qualitative interview analysis was performed to identify patterns and themes around shifts in gender-related medical requests over time. Statistical analysis employed chi-square and t-tests to compare characteristics in the shift versus no-shift groups and kappa statistics to calculate qualitative coding agreement. RESULTS Of the 68 youth followed over time (mean age 15.11 years, 47% autistic, 22% nonbinary), 20 (29%) reported a shift in request. No significant differences were found by age, autism status, or designated sex at birth. More youth with shifts were nonbinary (p = .012). Six shift profiles were identified from qualitative interviews with excellent reliability (κ = 0.865). Four of the profiles reflect shifts in request prior to starting treatment (85% sample); two involved shifts after commencing treatment (15%). The most common profile reflected a medical request that was made, withdrawn, and re-requested (45%). DISCUSSION Shifts in gender-affirming medical requests by gender-diverse youth may not be uncommon during the adolescent's gender discernment process, and may more likely occur among nonbinary youth. Many individuals who experience shifts away from medical treatment may later resume the request.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariel Cohen
- Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland; Department of Surgery, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC; Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group, Washington, DC.
| | - Veronica Gomez-Lobo
- Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland; Department of Surgery, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC
| | - Laura Willing
- Gender Development Program, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC; Department of Pediatrics, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC; Departments of Psychiatry, and Behavioral Sciences, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC
| | - David Call
- Gender Development Program, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC; Department of Pediatrics, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC; Departments of Psychiatry, and Behavioral Sciences, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC
| | - Lauren F Damle
- Department of Surgery, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC; Department of Women and Infant Services, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC
| | - Lawrence J D'Angelo
- Department of Pediatrics, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC; Divisions of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC
| | - Amber Song
- Gender Development Program, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC; Division of Neuropsychology, Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC; Center for Neuroscience, Children's National Research Institute, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC
| | - John F Strang
- Gender Development Program, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC; Department of Pediatrics, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC; Departments of Psychiatry, and Behavioral Sciences, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC; Division of Neuropsychology, Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC; Center for Neuroscience, Children's National Research Institute, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC
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13
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Abstract
Johns Hopkins Hospital established the first gender-affirming surgery (GAS) clinic in the United States in 1966. Operating for more than 13 years, the clinic was abruptly closed in 1979. According to the hospital, the decision was made in response to objective evidence claiming that GAS was ineffective. However, this evidence directly contradicted many contemporaneous studies and faced immediate criticism from the scientific community. Despite this resistance, it took the hospital nearly 40 years to resume performing GAS. Scientific evidence-imbued in scandal, bias, and moralism-was instrumentalized to serve broader institutional interests. The burgeoning field of plastic surgery tethered and then untethered GAS from its auspices in response to poor technical outcomes and transphobia. No longer serving surgeons' interests, the clinic was marginalized to "barely minimal facilities" in 1974, five years before GAS was formally banned. Over the next 5 years, the clinic co-inhabited space with the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Simultaneously, the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology navigated scandals related to reproductive technology (namely, the Dalkon Shield [A.H. Robins] controversy) until the clinic space was demolished in 1979. The study that informed the GAS ban was preferentially funded in keeping with the political economy of biomedical research. This article presents a spatial argument for how the closure of the nation's first GAS clinic was not based in empirical data alone but was manipulated to fuel political and institutional agendas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walker J Magrath
- The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland (W.J.M.)
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14
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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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15
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Shook AG, Tordoff DM, Clark A, Hardwick R, St Pierre Nelson W, Kantrowitz-Gordon I. Trans Youth Talk Back: A Foucauldian Discourse Analysis of Transgender Minors' Accounts of Healthcare Access. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2022; 32:1672-1689. [PMID: 35818038 DOI: 10.1177/10497323221114801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Contemporary transgender youth in the U.S. today face increasing stigmatization as extraordinary legislative attacks intensify discrimination and exclusion of these young people in healthcare, recreation, and school life. These attacks reflect broader political, religious, and cultural ideologies embedded in systems of power that regulate the provision of healthcare for American transgender youth. We apply Foucauldian discourse analysis and a theory-driven conceptual framework for structural analysis of transgender health inequities-Intersectionality Research for Transgender Health Justice-to identify discourses youth encounter within healthcare practice. We analyzed data from interviews conducted in Western Washington State with youth ages 13-17 (n =11) and asked how transgender subjectivity was constructed in their accounts and in what ways youth made use of the discursive resources available to them when navigating systems of care. Three sets of discourses-discourses of normativity, discourses of temporality, and discourse of access-characterized participants' narratives. We discuss how participants negotiated discursively situated systems of power in order to ensure their safety and access to care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - April Clark
- 12301Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
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16
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Westwater JJ, Riley EA, Peterson GM. A nationwide survey of individual family member experiences of youth gender dysphoria and diversity in Australia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF TRANSGENDER HEALTH 2022; 24:447-460. [PMID: 37901059 PMCID: PMC10601499 DOI: 10.1080/26895269.2022.2104417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
Background Previous research has highlighted that youth gender dysphoria (GD) and gender diversity (GDI) are experienced in unique ways by different family members, with youth outcomes significantly influenced by family support and understanding. Few studies on a national level have explored individual family member experiences, specifically family, social and healthcare experiences, involving young people, parent/carers and siblings. Aims Using an online survey incorporating circular questioning, this study sought to discover individual family member experiences of youth GD/GDI in Australia, within a family, healthcare, and social context. Methods Young people experiencing GD/GDI, parents/carers and siblings were recruited through Facebook advertising and completed an online survey, exploring positive and negative experiences of youth GD/GDI, within and outside of the family. Survey questions predominantly used Likert scales, with free-text fields, enabling both quantitative and qualitative data analysis. Results Six hundred and sixty young people aged 12-17 years experiencing GD/GDI, 158 parents/carers ranging in age from under 30 years to more than 60 years (most common age band was 40-49 years; 62%), and 40 siblings aged 12-17 years completed at least part of the online survey. Participants reported mixed experiences of youth GD/GDI with varying levels of understanding and support provided by family members and others. Parents and siblings generally felt it important for healthcare professionals to ask everyone's experience in the family, although only one-third of young people felt this was important. Most parents and young people also highlighted the importance of sibling support. Conclusion The majority of young people felt misunderstood by other family members. Most family members, particularly young people, reported different viewpoints within families and primarily negative experiences. The research findings support sibling inclusion in healthcare appointments in certain circumstances, depending on context, and a whole of family approach overall, if agreeable to the family and unlikely to cause harm.
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17
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Matthews A, Gordon K, Kramer R, Lin J, Ziv A. Clinical characteristics of medically hospitalized youth with anorexia nervosa/atypical anorexia nervosa and premorbid overweight/obesity. Eat Disord 2022; 31:201-211. [PMID: 35786422 DOI: 10.1080/10640266.2022.2097361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Youth with anorexia nervosa (AN) or atypical anorexia nervosa (AAN) and premorbid overweight/obesity are particularly vulnerable to diagnostic delays, yet research about this patient subset is lacking. This study aimed to compare mental health and demographic characteristics of patients with AN/AAN and premorbid overweight/obesity to patients with premorbid normal weight. Retrospective chart review identified 253 patients (aged 10-22) hospitalized for medical complications of AN/AAN between 2013 and 2020, including 29.6% (n = 75) with and 70.4% (n = 178) without premorbid overweight/obesity. Analyses revealed that patients with AN/AAN and premorbid overweight/obesity were more often cisgender male (24% vs. 8.4%), diagnosed with AAN (62.7% vs. 32%), and had lost a greater percent of body weight (29% vs. 16.4%) than premorbid normal weight counterparts. No significant differences were found for illness duration (10.1 months vs 9.3 months), psychiatric comorbidities (42.7% vs. 32.2%) or psychotropic medication use (25.3% vs. 19.2%), past mental health treatment (44.6% vs. 37.5%), or family history of eating disorders (22.7% vs. 20.8%). Our findings suggest that when relying on historical records, patients hospitalized for medical complications of AN/AAN have similar characteristics across the weight spectrum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Matthews
- Division of Behavioral Medicine and Clinical Psychology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Katelyn Gordon
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Rachel Kramer
- Division of Behavioral Medicine and Clinical Psychology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Jessica Lin
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.,Division of Adolescent Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.,Division of Adolescent Medicine and Young Adult Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Adi Ziv
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.,Day Care Hospitalization, Adolescent Medicine Unit, Schneider Children's Hospital Medical Center, Petah Tiqva, Israel.,Day Care Hospitalization, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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18
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Kuhlemeier A. Effects of Friendship among Same-Sex Attracted Youth on Sexual Minority Identity Development in Young Adulthood. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2022; 69:1372-1397. [PMID: 33861688 PMCID: PMC8521548 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2021.1913918] [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] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Using data from Waves 1 and 3 of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health, this study investigated the interactive impact of adolescent friendship network characteristics and same-sex attraction (SSA) on the development of sexual minority (SM) identity in young adulthood. Results indicate that SSA youth who identified a best friend that also identified them as their best friend were 5.3 times more likely to identify as a SM compared to those who did not experience reciprocity. For each additional classmate who listed them as a friend, SSA youth were 1.2 times more likely to identify as a SM. Increased centrality in friendship network increased the likelihood that SSA youth would identify as a SM by 1.8 times. Sex-stratified results reveal that particular network characteristics impact boys and girls differently. These findings point to the importance of further investigating relationships between friendship characteristics and identity formation among adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alena Kuhlemeier
- Department of Sociology, University of New Mexico, MSC05 3080, 1915 Roma NE Ste. 1103, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
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19
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LeeVan E, Hu F, Mitchell AB, Kokogho A, Adebajo S, Garges EC, Qian H, Ake JA, Robb ML, Charurat ME, Baral SD, Nowak RG, Crowell TA. Associations of gender identity with sexual behaviours, social stigma and sexually transmitted infections among adults who have sex with men in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25:e25956. [PMID: 35794838 PMCID: PMC9259961 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25956] [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: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Sexual and gender minority populations are disproportionately affected by the global syndemic of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). We hypothesized that transgender women (TGW) and non‐binary individuals in Nigeria have more STIs than cis‐gender men who have sex with men (cis‐MSM), and that experiences of stigma and sexual practices differ between these three groups. Methods From 2013 to 2020, TRUST/RV368 enrolled adults assigned male sex at birth who reported anal sex with men in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria. Participants were tested for STIs and completed questionnaires about sexual behaviours and social stigma every 3 months. Participants were categorized as cis‐MSM, TGW or non‐binary/other based on self‐reported gender identity. Gender group comparisons were made of HIV, gonorrhoea and chlamydia prevalence and incidence; stigma indicators; and condom use during anal sex. Results Among 2795 participants, there were 2260 (80.8%) cis‐MSM, 284 (10.2%) TGW and 251 (9.0%) non‐binary/other individuals with median age of 23 years (interquartile range 20–27). HIV prevalence among cis‐MSM, TGW and non‐binary/other participants was 40.8%, 51.5% and 47.6%, respectively (p = 0.002). HIV incidence was 8.7 cases per 100 person‐years (PY) (95% confidence interval [CI] 6.9–10.8), 13.1 cases/100 PY (95% CI 6.5–23.4) and 17.6 cases/100 PY (95% CI 9.8–29.0, p = 0.025), respectively. Anorectal gonorrhoea incidence was lower in cis‐MSM than TGW (22.2 [95% CI 19.6–25.0] vs. 35.9 [95% CI 27.3–46.3]). TGW were more likely than cis‐MSM to report being affected by stigma, including assault (47.2% vs. 32.3%), fear of walking around (32.4% vs. 19.2%) and healthcare avoidance (25.0% vs. 19.1%; all p < 0.05). TGW were more likely to report always using condoms than non‐binary/other individuals (35.3% vs. 26.2%, p = 0.041) during receptive anal sex. Conclusions Sexual and gender minorities in Nigeria have heterogeneous sexual behaviours and experiences of social stigma that may influence the vulnerability to HIV and other STIs. There is a need for tailored interventions that acknowledge and are informed by gender. Further research is needed, particularly among understudied non‐binary individuals, to better understand disparities and inform tailored interventions to improve outcomes among these communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elyse LeeVan
- U.S. Military HIV Research ProgramWalter Reed Army Institute of ResearchSilver SpringMarylandUSA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military MedicineBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Fengming Hu
- U.S. Military HIV Research ProgramWalter Reed Army Institute of ResearchSilver SpringMarylandUSA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military MedicineBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | | | | | - Sylvia Adebajo
- Center for International Health and Biosecurity (Ciheb)AbujaNigeria
| | - Eric C. Garges
- Department of Preventive Medicine and BiostaticsUniformed Services UniversityBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Haoyu Qian
- U.S. Military HIV Research ProgramWalter Reed Army Institute of ResearchSilver SpringMarylandUSA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military MedicineBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Julie A. Ake
- U.S. Military HIV Research ProgramWalter Reed Army Institute of ResearchSilver SpringMarylandUSA
| | - Merlin L. Robb
- U.S. Military HIV Research ProgramWalter Reed Army Institute of ResearchSilver SpringMarylandUSA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military MedicineBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | | | - Stefan D. Baral
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Rebecca G. Nowak
- Institute of Human VirologyUniversity of MarylandBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Trevor A. Crowell
- U.S. Military HIV Research ProgramWalter Reed Army Institute of ResearchSilver SpringMarylandUSA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military MedicineBethesdaMarylandUSA
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20
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Karrington B. Defining Desistance: Exploring Desistance in Transgender and Gender Expansive Youth Through Systematic Literature Review. Transgend Health 2022; 7:189-212. [PMID: 36643060 PMCID: PMC9829142 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2020.0129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Desistance is a concept that has been poorly defined in the literature, yet greatly impacts the arguments for and against providing gender-affirming care for transgender and gender expansive (TGE) youth. This literature review aims to provide an overview of the literature on desistance and how desistance is defined. Methods A systematically guided literature review was conducted on March 27, 2020, using CINAHL, Embase, LGBT Life, Medline, PsychINFO, and Web of Science to identify English language peer-reviewed studies, editorials, and theses that discuss desistance concerning TGE pre-pubertal youth for a minimum of three paragraphs. Articles were divided based on methodology and quantitative data were quality assessed and congregated. Definitions of desistance were compiled and analyzed using constant comparative method. Results One qualitative study, 2 case studies, 5 quantitative studies, 5 ethical discussions, and 22 editorials were assessed. Quantitative studies were all poor quality, with 83% of 251 participants reported as desisting. Thirty definitions of desistance were found, with four overarching trends: desistance as the disappearance of gender dysphoria (GD) after puberty, a change in gender identity from TGE to cisgender, the disappearance of distress, and the disappearance of the desire for medical intervention. Conclusions This review demonstrates the dearth of high-quality hypothesis-driven research that currently exists and suggests that desistance should no longer be used in clinical work or research. This transition can help future research move away from attempting to predict gender outcomes and instead focus on helping reduce distress from GD in TGE children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baer Karrington
- Department of Public Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom.,Address correspondence to: Baer Karrington, MSPH, MD, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK,
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21
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Fortunato A, Giovanardi G, Innocenzi E, Mirabella M, Caviglia G, Lingiardi V, Speranza AM. Is It Autism? A Critical Commentary on the Co-Occurrence of Gender Dysphoria and Autism Spectrum Disorder. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2022; 69:1204-1221. [PMID: 33852376 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2021.1905385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
An increasing amount of literature revealed a link between GD and ASD. Both GD and ASD are complex and heterogeneous conditions characterized by a large variety of presentations. Studies have reported that individuals with GD tend to have higher prevalence rates of autistic traits in comparison to the general population. The purpose of this commentary is to provide, through the description of a clinical case, our reading and a possible interpretation of the correlation of these two conditions in light of the several methodological limitations found in literature. We hypothesize that the traits often classified as autistic could be more accurately related to the distress and discomfort evoked by GD. The autistic traits of individuals with GD as forms of psychological defenses and coping mechanisms aimed at dealing with socio-relational and identity problems are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandro Fortunato
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, "Sapienza," University of Rome, Italy
| | - Guido Giovanardi
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania, "Luigi Vanvitelli," University of Caserta, Italy
| | - Eleonora Innocenzi
- Department of Letters and Philosophy, "Tor Vergata," University of Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Mirabella
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, "Sapienza," University of Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgio Caviglia
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania, "Luigi Vanvitelli," University of Caserta, Italy
| | - Vittorio Lingiardi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, "Sapienza," University of Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Speranza
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, "Sapienza," University of Rome, Italy
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22
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Kallitsounaki A, Williams DM. Autism Spectrum Disorder and Gender Dysphoria/Incongruence. A systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis. J Autism Dev Disord 2022:10.1007/s10803-022-05517-y. [PMID: 35596023 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05517-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The suggested overlap between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and gender dysphoria/incongruence (GD/GI) has been much disputed. This review showed a relationship between ASD traits and GD feelings in the general population and a high prevalence of GD/GI in ASD. Our meta-analyses revealed that the pooled estimate of the prevalence of ASD diagnoses in GD/GI people was 11% (p < .001) and the overall effect size of the difference in ASD traits between GD/GI and control people was significant (g = 0.67, p < .001). Heterogeneity was high in both meta-analyses. We demonstrated that the chances that there is not a link between ASD and GD/GI are negligible, yet the size of it needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimilia Kallitsounaki
- School of Psychology, University of Kent, Keynes College, CT2 7NP, Canterbury, Kent, United Kingdom.
| | - David M Williams
- School of Psychology, University of Kent, Keynes College, CT2 7NP, Canterbury, Kent, United Kingdom
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23
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Sun M, Ji H, Chen X, Xu J, Lu J, Yi Y, Pan Y, Wu R, Chen Y, Duan Y, Dou X, Zhou L. The factors influencing the psychological distress of transgender women in Shandong, China: a cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:955. [PMID: 35549903 PMCID: PMC9101853 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13357-9] [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: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background As a group at high-risk for acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) infection, the psychological distress of transgender women cannot be ignored while preventing and controlling AIDS risks. Transgender women are a vulnerable group, and their psychological distress deserves attention. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychological distress of transgender women and further determine the influences of factors on the psychological distress of transgender women. Methods From March 2021 to August 2021, a cross-sectional survey was conducted in Shandong province, China. Data were collected by a questionnaire designed for transgender women, and the GHQ-12 scale was used to measure their psychological distress. The questionnaire combined sociodemographic characteristics, HIV/AIDS cognition, related behaviors, substance abuse, social support, gender identity and other factors. Univariate logistic regression and multivariate logistic regression models were used to explore the psychological factors of transgender women. Results In this study, the rate of transgender women with psychological distress was 20.08%. Earned monthly income between 10,000–15,000 yuan (OR:0.16, 95% CI:0.06–0.45) and a monthly income greater than 15,000 yuan (OR:0.07, 95% CI:0.01–0.43) were protective factors in the psychology of transgender women. Transgender women who never disclosed sexual orientation and identity (OR: 0.19, 95% CI: 0.06–0.58), who only disclosed their sexual orientation and identity to families or friends (OR: 0.41, 95% CI: 0.18–0.93) were also less likely to have psychological distress. Additionally, transgender women who did not desire to be identified with their sexual orientation and identity (OR: 3.31, 95%CI: 1.08–10.16) and who reported that the Internet did not play an essential role in helping determine sexual orientation (OR: 5.96, 95% CI: 2.91–12.20) were more likely to have psychological distress. Conclusion Transgender women were at risk of psychological distress. Earning more money can help transgender women's psychological health. When formulating measures for transgender women, we should pay attention to enhance social inclusion and social acceptance of their gender identity and sexual orientation. Strengthening the role of the internet in transgender women's confirmation of sexual orientation and improving the social acceptance of transgender women will have a positive impact on the psychological status of transgender women. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-13357-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Sun
- School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning, China
| | - Haoqiang Ji
- School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning, China
| | - Xu Chen
- School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning, China
| | - Jia Xu
- School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning, China
| | - Jiachen Lu
- School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning, China
| | - Yaohui Yi
- School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning, China
| | - Yuanping Pan
- School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning, China
| | - Ruiheng Wu
- School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning, China
| | - Yunting Chen
- School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning, China
| | - Yuxin Duan
- School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning, China
| | - Xiaofeng Dou
- School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning, China
| | - Ling Zhou
- School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning, China.
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24
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Asokan A, Sudheendran MK. Gender Affirming Body Contouring and Physical Transformation in Transgender Individuals. Indian J Plast Surg 2022; 55:179-187. [PMID: 36017408 PMCID: PMC9398519 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1749099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a subset of transgender individuals, who after having undergone gender affirming surgeries want body contouring so that the overall body shape is congruent to the body image. Hormonal therapy can bring about a considerable change in the physical transformation. However, there is an increase in requests for specific body contouring procedures because of increased awareness in the society. There are significant differences between the skeletal as well as soft tissue characteristics of male and female body. Body contouring in transgender individuals can be achieved by altering the skeletal structure or the overlying soft tissues or combining both. In this article, we discuss body contouring as an adjunct to gender affirming surgeries, in both male to female and female to male transgender individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arjun Asokan
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Renai Medicity, Cochin, Kerala, India
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25
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Lieber M, Hamill MM, Pham P, Pine E, Crank J, Shah M. Navigating Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Primary Care Concerns Specific to the Transgender and Gender-Nonbinary Population. Open Forum Infect Dis 2022; 9:ofac091. [PMID: 35355890 PMCID: PMC8962744 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofac091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention and treatment remain critically important to outpatient care among transgender and gender-nonbinary individuals. Epidemiologically, trans men and trans women are significantly more likely to have HIV compared with all adults of reproductive age. Here, we provide an overview of unique primary care considerations affecting transgender and gender-nonbinary individuals, including screening and treatment of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections as well as cancer screening and fertility preservation options. We also seek to review current literature and clinical practice guidelines related to drug–drug interactions between antiretroviral therapy (ART) and gender-affirming hormonal therapy (GAHT). In short, integrase strand transfer inhibitor–based therapy is not expected to have significant drug interactions with most GAHT and is preferred in most transgender individuals, including those on GAHT. Clinicians should also remain aware of current GAHT regimens and consider tailoring ART and GAHT to reduce cardiovascular and other risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Lieber
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Matthew M Hamill
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Paul Pham
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Elyse Pine
- Chase Brexton Health Services, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jill Crank
- Johns Hopkins Community Physicians, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Maunank Shah
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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26
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Veale JF, Deutsch MB, Devor AH, Kuper LE, Motmans J, Radix AE, Amand CS. Setting a research agenda in trans health: An expert assessment of priorities and issues by trans and nonbinary researchers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF TRANSGENDER HEALTH 2022; 23:392-408. [PMID: 36324879 PMCID: PMC9621229 DOI: 10.1080/26895269.2022.2044425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This article is by a group of trans and nonbinary researchers and experts in the field of trans health who have conducted an analysis of trans health research needs. AIMS To highlight topics that need further research and to outline key considerations for those conducting research in our field. METHODS The first author conducted semi-structured interviews with all coauthors, and these were used to create a first draft of this manuscript. This draft was circulated to all authors, with edits made until consensus was reached among the authors. RESULTS More comprehensive long-term research that centers trans people's experiences is needed on the risks and benefits of gender affirming hormones and surgeries. The trans health research field also needs to have a broader focus beyond medical transition or gender affirmation, including general health and routine healthcare; trans people's lives without, before, and after medical gender affirmation; and sexuality, fertility, and reproductive healthcare needs. More research is also needed on social determinants of health, including ways to make healthcare settings and other environments safer and more supportive; social and legal gender recognition; the needs of trans people who are most marginalized; and the ways in which healing happens within trans communities. The second part of this article highlights key considerations for researchers, the foremost being acknowledging trans community expertise and centering trans community members' input into research design and interpretation of findings, in advisory and/or researcher roles. Ethical considerations include maximizing benefits and minimizing harms (beneficence) and transparency and accountability to trans communities. Finally, we note the importance of conferences, grant funding, working with students, and multidisciplinary teams. DISCUSSION This article outlines topics and issues needing further consideration to make the field of trans health research more responsive to the needs of trans people. This work is limited by our authorship group being mostly White, all being Anglophone, and residing in the Global North.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaimie F. Veale
- School of Psychology, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Madeline B. Deutsch
- School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Aaron H. Devor
- Chair in Transgender Studies, University of Victoria, British Columbia, Victoria, Canada
| | - Laura E. Kuper
- Department of Psychiatry, Southwestern Medical Center, University of Texas, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Endocrinology, Children’s Health System of Texas, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Joz Motmans
- Department of Language and Cultures, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
- University Hospital of Ghent, Gent, Belgium
| | - Asa E. Radix
- Department of Medicine, New York University Langone Health, New York, USA
- Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, New York, USA
| | - Colt St. Amand
- Department of Family Medicine, Mayo Clinic Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine,Houston, TX, USA
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27
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Teelin KL, Shubkin CD, Caruso Brown AE. Conscientious Objection to Providing Gender Health Care in Pediatric Training: Balancing the Vulnerability of Transgender Youth and the Vulnerability of Pediatric Residents. J Pediatr 2022; 240:272-279. [PMID: 34547338 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2021.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Within pediatric graduate medical education, the care of transgender youth presents opportunities for deepening learners' understanding of equity, access, the role of the physician as an advocate, and health disparities caused by stigma and minority stress. However, when a pediatric resident objects to providing health care to this uniquely vulnerable population owing to their personal beliefs and values, how should pediatrician-educators respond? Important reasons to respect healthcare professionals' conscience have been described in the scholarly literature; however, equally important concerns have also been raised about the extent to which conscientious objection should be permitted in a pluralistic society, particularly given power differentials that favor healthcare professionals and grants them a monopoly over certain services. In the context of medical education, however, residents are in a unique position: they are simultaneously learners and employees, and although privileged relative to their patients, they are also vulnerable in relation to the hierarchy of healthcare and of institutions. We must find a compassionate balance between nurturing the evolving conscience of students and trainees and protecting the health and well-being of our most vulnerable patients. Educators have an obligation to foster empathy, mitigate bias, and mentor their learners, regardless of beliefs, but in some cases, they may recognize that there are limits: patients' welfare ultimately takes precedence and trainees should be guided toward alternative career paths. We explore the limits of conscientious objection in medical training and propose a framework for pediatrician-educators to support learners and patients in challenging circumstances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen L Teelin
- Department of Pediatrics, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY
| | - Catherine D Shubkin
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock, Lebanon, NH
| | - Amy E Caruso Brown
- Department of Pediatrics, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY; Center for Bioethics and Humanities, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY.
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van Anders SM, Herbenick D, Brotto LA, Harris EA, Chadwick SB. The Heteronormativity Theory of Low Sexual Desire in Women Partnered with Men. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:391-415. [PMID: 34426898 PMCID: PMC8382213 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-02100-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Low sexual desire in women partnered with men is typically presumed to be a problem-one that exists in women and encourages a research agenda on causation and treatment targeting women. In this paper, we present a distinct way forward for research on low sexual desire in women partnered with men that attends to a more structural explanation: heteronormativity. A heteronormative worldview assumes that relationships and structures are heterosexual, gender (usually conflated with sex) is binary and complementary, and gender roles fit within narrow bounds including nurturant labor for women. We propose the heteronormativity theory of low sexual desire in women partnered with men, arguing that heteronormative gender inequities are contributing factors. We outline four hypotheses and their predictions related to: inequitable divisions of household labor, blurring of partner and mother roles, objectification of women, and gender norms surrounding sexual initiation. We discuss some mechanisms-social, physiological, and otherwise-for the heteronormativity theory, especially related to stress, objectification, and nurturance. We close by noting some limitations of our paper and the ways that the heteronormativity theory of low sexual desire in women partnered with men provides a rigorous, generative, and empirical way forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sari M van Anders
- Department of Psychology, Queen's University, 62 Arch Street, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N6, Canada.
- Department of Gender Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.
| | - Debby Herbenick
- School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Lori A Brotto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Emily A Harris
- Department of Psychology, Queen's University, 62 Arch Street, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Sara B Chadwick
- Departments of Psychology and Women's and Gender Studies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Kennedy E, Lane C, Stynes H, Ranieri V, Spinner L, Carmichael P, Omar R, Vickerstaff V, Hunter R, Senior R, Butler G, Baron-Cohen S, de Graaf N, Steensma TD, de Vries A, Young B, King M. Longitudinal Outcomes of Gender Identity in Children (LOGIC): study protocol for a retrospective analysis of the characteristics and outcomes of children referred to specialist gender services in the UK and the Netherlands. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e054895. [PMID: 34758999 PMCID: PMC8587379 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-054895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Specialist gender services for children and young people (CYP) worldwide have experienced a significant increase in referrals in recent years. As rates of referrals increase, it is important to understand the characteristics and profile of CYP attending these services in order to inform treatment pathways and to ensure optimal outcomes. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A retrospective observational study of clinical health records from specialist gender services for CYP in the UK and the Netherlands. The retrospective analysis will examine routinely collected clinical and outcome measures data including demographic, clinical, gender identity-related and healthcare resource use information. Data will be reported for each service and also compared between services. This study forms part of a wider programme of research investigating outcomes of gender identity in children (the Longitudinal Outcomes of Gender Identity in Children study). ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The proposed study has been approved by the Health Research Authority and London-Hampstead Research Ethics Committee as application 19/LO/0181. The study findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at both conferences and stakeholder events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eilis Kennedy
- Research & Development Unit, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
- Children, Young Adults and Families Directorate, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Chloe Lane
- Research & Development Unit, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Hannah Stynes
- Research & Development Unit, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Veronica Ranieri
- Research & Development Unit, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Lauren Spinner
- Research & Development Unit, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Polly Carmichael
- Gender Identity Development Service, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Rumana Omar
- Department of Statistical Science, University College London, London, UK
| | - Victoria Vickerstaff
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, London, UK
| | - Rachael Hunter
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Robert Senior
- Research & Development Unit, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Children, Young Adults and Families Directorate, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Gary Butler
- Gender Identity Development Service, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Endocrinology, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Simon Baron-Cohen
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Nastasja de Graaf
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas D Steensma
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annelou de Vries
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bridget Young
- Institute of Population Health Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Michael King
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, London, UK
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30
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McKay K, Kennedy E, Lane C, Wright T, Young B. Longitudinal outcomes of gender identity in children (LOGIC): a study protocol for a prospective longitudinal qualitative study of the experiences and well-being of families referred to the UK Gender Identity Development Service. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e047875. [PMID: 34732477 PMCID: PMC8572378 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-047875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gender Identity Development Services (GIDS) worldwide have experienced a significant increase in referrals in recent years. However, little is currently known about the experiences of the children and young people (CYP) and their families attending these services and the influences on their well-being. Most published qualitative studies have explored gender identity and gender questioning CYP from either a parental perspective or in an adolescent sample. Consequently, there is a need for research to explore the voices of younger children and adolescents who are referred to GIDS. This study aims to address current gaps in understanding of the experiences of CYP referred to the UK GIDS, specifically regarding the personal, familial, educational, and social contexts in which CYP and their parents/caregivers are navigating gender identity, social and physical transition, and the healthcare system. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A prospective longitudinal qualitative study examining the experiences and well-being of CYP referred to the UK GIDS. A purposive sample of up to 40 families will be recruited. Families will be eligible for the study if the child or young person was aged 3-14 years at the time of referral to the GIDS. Semistructured interviews will be conducted with both the child/young person and their parents/caregivers. Analysis of anonymised interview transcripts will be interpretive and pluralistic, informed by both narrative and thematic approaches. This study forms part of a wider programme of research investigating longitudinal outcomes of gender identity in children (the LOGIC Study). ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The proposed study has been approved by the UK Health Research Authority and London-Hampstead Research Ethics Committee as application 19/LO/0857. The study findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at both conferences and stakeholder events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathy McKay
- Public Health, Policy and Systems, Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Research and Development Unit, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Eilis Kennedy
- Research and Development Unit, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Chloe Lane
- Research and Development Unit, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Talen Wright
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Bridget Young
- Public Health, Policy and Systems, Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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31
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Jessen RS, Wæhre A, David L, Stänicke E. Negotiating Gender in Everyday Life: Toward a Conceptual Model of Gender Dysphoria in Adolescents. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:3489-3503. [PMID: 34716499 PMCID: PMC8604851 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-02024-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
A growing number of adolescents are seeking medical care to alleviate gender dysphoria (GD). This qualitative study explored the subjective experiences of GD among help-seeking transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) youth in order to develop a more nuanced conceptualization of the phenomenon. Fifteen life-mode interviews were conducted with newly referred youth between the ages of 13 and 19. All participants were assigned female at birth. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The participants targeted five major themes that characterize GD: (1) Bodily sensations were constant reminders of GD throughout the day, (2) emotional memories from the past of being different and outside triggered GD, (3) the process of coming out was a transformative experience that changed how the participants understood themselves, (4) GD both increased and decreased in relation to others, (5) everyday life required careful negotiation to feel whole without developing new forms of GD. Based on the results, we suggest a more conceptually nuanced model of GD, one which accounts for how bodily sensations and emotional memories from the past were sources that elicited GD. The sources were mediated through the process of coming out and relating to others, and this resulted in the negotiation of GD today. The conceptual model suggested in the present study could ideally shed light on preexisting knowledge on TGNC youth struggling with GD. In addition, an improved understanding of GD could ideally help clinicians when addressing individual treatment needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reidar Schei Jessen
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Oslo University Hospital, Kirkeveien 166, 0450, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Anne Wæhre
- Division of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Linda David
- Division of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Erik Stänicke
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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32
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Crowe S, Barker E, Roberts M, Lloyd L, de Barros CM, Rebelo-Harris B, Meads C, Saunders CL. Are we asking the right questions? Working with the LGBTQ+ community to prioritise healthcare research themes. RESEARCH INVOLVEMENT AND ENGAGEMENT 2021; 7:64. [PMID: 34556178 PMCID: PMC8460395 DOI: 10.1186/s40900-021-00298-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Conversations about research priorities with members of the public are rarely designed specifically to include people who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ+) and are not researchers. METHODS Generally, to address this gap, and specifically, to inform future research for CLS, we carried out a rapid review of published research priority sets covering LGBTQ+ topics, and an online workshop to prioritise identified themes. RESULTS Rapid review: results. The rapid review identified 18 LGBTQ+ research priority sets. Some focussed on specific populations such as women or men, younger or older people or people living within families. Five addressed transgender and gender non- conforming populations. All of the research priority sets originated from English-speaking, high and middle-income countries (UK, US, Canada, and Australia), and date from 2016 onwards. Prioritization approaches were wide-ranging from personal commentary to expert workshops and surveys. Participants involved in setting priorities mostly included research academics, health practitioners and advocacy organisations, two studies involved LGBTQ+ public in their process. Research priorities identified in this review were then grouped into themes which were prioritised during the workshop. Workshop: results. For the workshop, participants were recruited using local (Cambridge, UK) LGBTQ+ networks and a national advert to a public involvement in research matching website to take part in an online discussion workshop. Those that took part were offered payment for their time in preparing for the workshop and taking part. Participants personal priorities and experiences contributed to a consensus development process and a final ranked list of seven research themes and participants' experiences of healthcare, mental health advocacy, care homes, caring responsibilities, schools and family units added additional context. CONCLUSIONS From the workshop the three research themes prioritised were: healthcare services delivery, prevention, and particular challenges / intersectionality of multiple challenges for people identifying as LGBTQ+. Research themes interconnected in many ways and this was demonstrated by the comments from workshop participants. This paper offers insights into why these priorities were important from participants' perspectives and detail about how to run an inclusive and respectful public involvement research exercise. On a practical level these themes will directly inform future research direction for CLS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Lucy Lloyd
- Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, East Forvie Building, Forvie Site, Robinson Way, Cambridge, CB2 0SR, UK
| | | | | | - Catherine Meads
- Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine and Social Care, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK
| | - Catherine L Saunders
- Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, East Forvie Building, Forvie Site, Robinson Way, Cambridge, CB2 0SR, UK.
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Giovanardi G, Mirabella M, Di Giuseppe M, Lombardo F, Speranza AM, Lingiardi V. Defensive Functioning of Individuals Diagnosed With Gender Dysphoria at the Beginning of Their Hormonal Treatment. Front Psychol 2021; 12:665547. [PMID: 34484028 PMCID: PMC8415164 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.665547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Defense mechanisms are relevant indicators of psychological functioning and vulnerability to psychopathology. Their evaluation can unveil individuals' unconscious strategies for mediating reactions to emotional conflict and external stressors. At the beginning of their journey toward gender reassignment, individuals diagnosed with gender dysphoria (GD) may experience conflict and stressful experiences that trigger a wide range of defense mechanisms. Mature defenses may strengthen these individuals as they travel along this important path, while neurotic and immature defenses may exacerbate their body dissatisfaction (BD) and hinder their processing of change. Only a few studies have investigated self-reported defensive functioning in transgender people, finding a higher frequency of maladaptive defense mechanisms relative to controls. The present study was the first to apply an in-depth clinician-rated tool to assess the entire hierarchy of defense mechanisms within a sample of transgender people. Defensive functioning and personality organization were assessed in 36 individuals diagnosed with GD (14 trans women, 22 trans men, mean age 23.47 years), using the Defense Mechanisms Rating Scales (Perry, 1990) and the Shedler-Westen Assessment Procedure-200 (Shedler et al., 2014). Body uneasiness was assessed using the Body Uneasiness Test (BUT; Cuzzolaro et al., 2006). The findings showed that defensive functioning correlated positively with healthy personality functioning and negatively with BD. Compared to cisgender controls, participants with GD who presented greater defensive functioning were found to be more immature and to demonstrate significant differences in many levels of functioning. The clinical implications of the results suggest that psychological interventions aimed at improving defensive functioning in individuals with GD will be important in helping them manage the challenges posed by their gender transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guido Giovanardi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Mirabella
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mariagrazia Di Giuseppe
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology, Critical and Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesco Lombardo
- Laboratory of Seminology - Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Speranza
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Vittorio Lingiardi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Kennedy E, Spinner L, Lane C, Stynes H, Ranieri V, Carmichael P, Omar R, Vickerstaff V, Hunter R, Wright T, Senior R, Butler G, Baron-Cohen S, Young B, King M. Longitudinal Outcomes of Gender Identity in Children (LOGIC): protocol for a prospective longitudinal cohort study of children referred to the UK gender identity development service. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e045628. [PMID: 34493504 PMCID: PMC8424855 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-045628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gender identity development services (GIDS) worldwide have seen a significant increase in referrals in recent years. Many of these referrals consist of children and young people (CYP) who experience gender-related distress. This study aims to improve understanding of outcomes of CYP referred to the UK GIDS, specifically regarding gender identity, mental health, physical health and quality of life. The impact of factors such as co-occurring autism and early social transition on outcomes over time will be explored. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This is a prospective cohort study of CYP aged 3-14 years when referred to the UK GIDS. Eligible participants will be ≤14 years at the time their referral was accepted and will be on the waitlist for the service when baseline measures are completed. Children aged under 12 years will complete the measures in an interview format with a researcher, while young people aged 12 years and over and their parents/caregivers will complete online or paper-based questionnaires. Participants will complete follow-up measures 12 months and 24 months later. The final sample size is expected to be approximately 500. Logistic regression models will be used to explore associations between prespecified explanatory variables and gender dysphoria. Appropriate regression models will also be used to investigate explanatory variables for other outcomes. Subgroup analyses based on birth-assigned gender, age at referral and co-occurring autistic traits will be explored. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study has been approved by the Health Research Authority and London - Hampstead Research Ethics Committee (reference: 19/LO/0857). The study findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at both conferences and stakeholder events. Findings will be used to inform clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eilis Kennedy
- Research & Development Unit, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Research Department of Clinical Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
- Children, Young Adults and Families Directorate, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Lauren Spinner
- Research & Development Unit, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Chloe Lane
- Research & Development Unit, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Hannah Stynes
- Research & Development Unit, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Veronica Ranieri
- Research & Development Unit, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Research Department of Clinical Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Polly Carmichael
- Gender Identity Development Service, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Rumana Omar
- Department of Statistical Science, University College London, London, UK
| | - Victoria Vickerstaff
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Rachael Hunter
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Talen Wright
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Robert Senior
- Research & Development Unit, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Children, Young Adults and Families Directorate, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Gary Butler
- Gender Identity Development Service, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Endocrinology, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Simon Baron-Cohen
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Bridget Young
- Institute of Population Health Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Michael King
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK
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35
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Chen D, Lash B, Kim E, Hidalgo MA, Muldoon AL, Liu E, Jensen J, Grabert R, Chan YM, Garofalo R, Tishelman A. A Comparison of Demographic and Psychosocial Characteristics Between Transgender Youth Enrolling Versus Not Enrolling in a Multisite Study. Transgend Health 2021; 6:229-234. [PMID: 34414280 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2020.0060] [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: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To characterize demographics, psychosocial functioning, and gender-related experiences in transgender youth enrolling versus declining participation in a multisite research study. Methods: Clinical data were abstracted from patient charts at two study sites. Continuous variables were compared using t-tests, and categorical variables were compared using χ 2 tests based on study enrollment status. Results: Few significant differences were observed between enrolled and nonenrolled youth. None of these differences (i.e., designated sex at birth/gender identity; parent-reported separation anxiety; and youth-reported attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder) was replicated across sites. Conclusion: Trans Youth Care findings are likely generalizable to transgender youth initiating hormone treatment at pediatric academic centers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane Chen
- Potocsnak Family Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Pritzker Department of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Brenna Lash
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ellie Kim
- Potocsnak Family Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Marco A Hidalgo
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Abigail L Muldoon
- Potocsnak Family Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Enju Liu
- Institutional Centers of Clinical and Translational Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jennifer Jensen
- Potocsnak Family Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Ren Grabert
- Potocsnak Family Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Yee-Ming Chan
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Robert Garofalo
- Potocsnak Family Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Amy Tishelman
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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36
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Hashemi L, Zhang Q, Getahun D, Jasuja GK, McCracken C, Pisegna J, Roblin D, Silverberg MJ, Tangpricha V, Vupputuri S, Goodman M. Longitudinal Changes in Liver Enzyme Levels Among Transgender People Receiving Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy. J Sex Med 2021; 18:1662-1675. [PMID: 37057433 PMCID: PMC8444147 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2021.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Background: The effect of gender affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) on clinical laboratory parameters, including levels of liver enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST), is an area of uncertainty in transgender health. Aim: We sought to estimate the distribution parameters of liver enzyme levels among transmasculine (TM) and transfeminine (TF) persons receiving GAHT relative to the corresponding measures in cisgender reference groups, and to evaluate longitudinal changes in these laboratory measures following GAHT initiation. Methods: The data for this longitudinal study included 624 TF and 438 transmasculine (TM) people as well as 4,090 cisgender males and 4,797 cisgender females enrolled in 3 integrated health systems. Time under observation was divided into 2 intervals: from the first blood test to the date of the first filled GAHT prescription and from GAHT initiation to the most recent ALT or AST measurement. Linear mixed models were used to compare changes in log-transformed ALT and AST values among transgender cohort members before and after GAHT initiation, and relative to the reference groups. The results were expressed as relative differences (in %) and the ratios of these differences (ratios-of-ratios) along with the 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Outcomes: Changes in ALT and AST levels among transgender people over time and relative to the corresponding changes in cisgender referents. Results: Among TM study participants, the post GAHT ratios-of-ratios for AST were 1.61 (95% CI: 1.13, 2.31) and 1.57 (95% CI: 1.06, 2.31) relative to cisgender males and females respectively. For ALT, the corresponding comparisons yielded the ratios-of-ratios (95% CIs) of 2.06 (1.67, 2.54) and 1.90 (1.50, 2.40). No statistically significant changes were observed among TF participants. Other factors associated with higher liver enzyme levels included alcohol use/abuse and obesity. Clinical Implications: TM persons may experience modest increases in ALT and AST concentrations following testosterone initiation; however, clinical significance of the observed association remains unclear and requires further investigation. By contrast, feminizing GAHT is unlikely to induce appreciable changes in liver enzyme levels. Strength and Limitations: The strengths of this study are the longitudinal design and the ability to assemble an unselected cohort nested within large health systems. The main limitations include the lack of information on hormone levels and the inability to take into account GAHT doses and routes of administration. Conclusion: The influence of long-term GAHT on ALT and AST levels appears modest and not likely to reflect clinically meaningful changes in liver function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Hashemi
- VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Department of General Internal Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA; David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Qi Zhang
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta GA, USA
| | - Darios Getahun
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Guneet K Jasuja
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR), Edith Nourse Memorial Veterans Hospital, Bedford VA Medical Center, Bedford, MA, USA; Department of Health Law, Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Courtney McCracken
- Center for Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Georgia, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Joseph Pisegna
- VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Department of General Internal Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA; David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Douglas Roblin
- Mid-Atlantic Permanente Research Institute, Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlanta States, Rockville, MD, USA
| | | | - Vin Tangpricha
- Department of Endocrinology, Emory University, School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; The Atlanta VA Medical Center, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Suma Vupputuri
- Mid-Atlantic Permanente Research Institute, Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlanta States, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Michael Goodman
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta GA, USA
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Klemmer CL, Rusow J, Goldbach J, Kattari SK, Rice E. Socially Assigned Gender Nonconformity and School Violence Experience Among Transgender and Cisgender Adolescents. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2021; 36:NP8567-NP8589. [PMID: 31023178 DOI: 10.1177/0886260519844781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Although literature documents the experiences of socially assigned gender nonconformity (SAGNC) by minority sexual orientation (i.e., lesbian, gay, and bisexual [LGB]), examination of the role of gender expression on school violence outcomes in the presence of sexual orientation and gender identity is not well understood. This study describes SAGNC among a representative sample of adolescents, accounting for sexual orientation and gender identity (e.g., transgender). A secondary data analysis was conducted using Youth Risk Behavior Survey data from Los Angeles Unified School District high schools in 2013 (N = 1,496). The prevalence of school violence by self-reported SAGNC and gender identity was obtained. Associations between SAGNC and school violence were examined using multivariate logistic regression adjusted for mischievous response bias. Two hundred ninety-one (19.5%) adolescents reported SAGNC. Having missed school due to a safety concern and being bullied in the past year were more common among socially assigned gender nonconforming adolescents than those who conformed to gender expression expectations. Socially assigned gender nonconforming adolescents, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, are at greater risk of missed school due to safety concerns, and bullying, as compared with those who conform to norms of gender expression. Future research should measure SAGNC, sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression with larger representative samples of school populations across contexts (urban and rural), and inclusive of structural factors (e.g., school climate) to guide the development of prevention efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joshua Rusow
- University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA
| | | | | | - Eric Rice
- University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA
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Jessen RS, Haraldsen IRH, Stänicke E. Navigating in the dark: Meta-synthesis of subjective experiences of gender dysphoria amongst transgender and gender non-conforming youth. Soc Sci Med 2021; 281:114094. [PMID: 34116421 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.114094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We conducted a meta-synthesis of qualitative research on subjective experiences of gender dysphoria (GD) amongst transgender and gender non-conforming (TGNC) youth in order to improve clinical encounters, complement existing knowledge and potentially influence future research. METHODS We systematically searched for qualitative studies on GD in English, German, Spanish and Scandinavian languages in seven databases. Starting with 2000 articles, we finally included 12 papers in the meta-synthesis, following Noblit and Hare's (1988) seven steps for qualitative meta-synthesis research. RESULTS Through the consistent comparison of key concepts, we were able to cluster the findings from the 12 included studies into four meta-themes: (1) the emerging understanding and awareness of GD was described as navigation in the dark, (2) the importance of relationships and societal norms, (3) the role of the body and the exploration of one's own body and (4) sexuality and sexual impulses. The young person's relation with his or her own body and sexuality influences subjective experiences of GD. The experiences are always mediated in relation with other people and societal norms, and they are both long-lasting and changing. CONCLUSION The phenomenological analysis indicated that GD is a complex phenomenon involving manifold factors that changes across time and place for each individual. GD is not a static phenomenon but an expression of continuous negotiation amongst the body, its impulses, sexual desire and the relationships in which each person participates. Therefore, clinicians who treat TGNC youth should help them to reflect on this developmental process over time as a complement to medical approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reidar Schei Jessen
- University of Oslo, Department of Psychology, and Oslo University Hospital, Norway.
| | | | - Erik Stänicke
- University of Oslo, Department of Psychology, Norway.
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"No One Stays Just on Blockers Forever": Clinicians' Divergent Views and Practices Regarding Puberty Suppression for Nonbinary Young People. J Adolesc Health 2021; 68:1189-1196. [PMID: 33121900 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2020.09.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Approximately half of transgender or gender diverse youth identify as gender nonbinary (not entirely or exclusively male or female). This study aimed to explore the views and practices of Australian clinicians working with transgender or gender diverse young people regarding puberty suppression for nonbinary youth, including requests for ongoing puberty suppression into adulthood. METHODS Individual semistructured key informant interviews were conducted with 14 clinicians (medical and mental health) in Australia to explore their practices, views, and decision-making regarding puberty suppression for nonbinary youth. Transcripts were analyzed using inductive content analysis. RESULTS Requests for puberty suppression from nonbinary young people are occurring, with 12 of 14 clinicians reporting they have received such requests. Although all clinicians were prepared to support short-term puberty suppression for nonbinary youth, clinicians diverged in their preparedness to support long-term puberty suppression. Clinicians expressed concerns in relation to risks, resource allocation, and medicalization. Some clinicians required nonbinary young people to choose a masculinizing or feminizing puberty. Some clinicians also put forward arguments in favor of long-term puberty suppression, including potential psychosocial harm of discontinuing puberty suppression, respect for autonomy, equity, and harm minimization. Clinicians also highlighted practical challenges of obtaining long-term puberty suppression in the adult setting. CONCLUSIONS The decision of whether to provide puberty suppression, particularly long-term, to a nonbinary young person is both ethically and clinically complex. There is currently a diversity of practice in this area, and evidence-based ethical guidelines and outcome data could promote more informed decision-making and support clinicians working in this complex area.
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Association of Chest Dysphoria With Anxiety and Depression in Transmasculine and Nonbinary Adolescents Seeking Gender-Affirming Care. J Adolesc Health 2021; 68:1135-1141. [PMID: 33849759 PMCID: PMC8903018 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2021.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to determine the existence and strength of association between chest dysphoria and mental health in transmasculine and nonbinary adolescents. METHODS This is a cross-sectional cohort study of transmasculine and nonbinary adolescents designated female at birth between 12 and 18 years old. None had undergone prior top surgery. Patients complete the Chest Dysphoria Measure and Youth Inventory-4 (YI-4) upon presentation to our institution. Outcomes were retrospectively reviewed. The primary outcome of interest was the association between chest dysphoria and anxiety and depression symptom severity, as measured by the YI-4. RESULTS One hundred fifty-six patients met inclusion criteria. Mean age was 15.3 years (standard deviation [SD] = 1.7). Most patients identified as transmasculine (n = 132); 18 identified as nonbinary and 6 as questioning. Mean (SD) YI-4 symptom severity scores were 10.67 (6.64) for anxiety and 11.99 (7.83) for depression. Mean (SD) Chest Dysphoria Measure composite score was 30.15 (9.95); range 2-49. Chest dysphoria was positively correlated with anxiety (r = .146; p = .002) and depression (r = .207; p < .001). In multivariate linear regression models, chest dysphoria showed a significant, positive association with anxiety and depression, after accounting for gender dysphoria, degree of appearance congruence, and social transition status. CONCLUSIONS Chest dysphoria is associated with higher anxiety and depression in transmasculine and nonbinary adolescents designated female at birth. This association is independent of level of gender dysphoria, degree of appearance congruence, and social transition status. Treatment options aimed at alleviating chest dysphoria should be made accessible to adolescents and tailored to individual needs.
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Wichaidit W, Assanangkornchai S, Chongsuvivatwong V. Disparities in behavioral health and experience of violence between cisgender and transgender Thai adolescents. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0252520. [PMID: 34048495 PMCID: PMC8162664 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0252520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The term "transgender" refers to an individual whose gender identity is different from their sex assigned at birth, whereas the term "cisgender" refers to an individual whose gender identity is the same as their sex assigned at birth. In Thailand, studies on health outcomes and quality of life of Thai transgender youths have not included assessments from nationally-representative samples. The objective of this study is to assess the extent that behavioral health outcomes and exposure to violence varied by gender among respondents of the National School Survey on Alcohol Consumption, Substance Use and Other Health-Risk Behaviors. Methods We used data from a nationally-representative self-administered survey of secondary school students in years 7, 9 and 11 and classified participants as cisgender boys, cisgender girls, transgender boys, and transgender girls. Participants also answered questions on depressive experience, suicidality, sexual behaviors, alcohol and tobacco use, drug use, and past-year experience of violence. We analyzed data using descriptive statistics and modified multivariate Poisson regression with adjustment for sampling weights to calculate adjusted prevalence ratios (APR) with 95% confidence intervals. Results A total of 31,898 respondents (82.8% of those who returned complete and valid questionnaires) answered questions on sex and gender identity and were included in the analyses (n = 31,898 respondents), approximately 2.5% of whom identified as transgender. Transgender boys had a higher prevalence suicidal ideation than cisgender boys (APR = 2.97; 95% CI = 1.89, 4.67) and cisgender girls (APR = 2.29; 95% CI = 1.55, 3.40). Transgender girls were less likely than cisgender boys and girls to be ever drinkers, while transgender boys were more likely than cisgender boys and girls to be ever drinkers. Transgender girls had higher past-year exposure to sexual violence than cisgender boys (APR = 2.74; 95% CI = 1.52, 4.95) and cisgender girls (APR = 4.93; 95% CI = 2.52, 9.67). Conclusion We found disparities in behavioral health and experience of violence between transgender and cisgender adolescents in Thailand. The findings highlighted the need for program managers and policy makers to consider expanding local efforts to address health gaps in the LGBTQ community to also include school-going youth population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wit Wichaidit
- Epidemiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Thailand
- Centre for Alcohol Studies, Hat Yai, Thailand
- * E-mail:
| | - Sawitri Assanangkornchai
- Epidemiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Thailand
- Centre for Alcohol Studies, Hat Yai, Thailand
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Skeen SJ, Cain D, Gamarel KE, Hightow-Weidman L, Reback CJ. mHealth for transgender and gender-expansive youth: harnessing gender-affirmative cross-disciplinary innovations to advance HIV prevention and care interventions. Mhealth 2021; 7:37. [PMID: 33898606 PMCID: PMC8063017 DOI: 10.21037/mhealth-20-60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Transgender and gender-expansive (TGE) youth endure stark disparities in health and wellbeing compared to their cisgender peers. A key social determinant of health for TGE adolescents and emerging adults is gender affirmation, which encompasses multidimensional validations of an individual's lived gender. Lacking available resources for one's gender affirmation, TGE young people may engage in high-risk maladaptive coping behaviors, linked to their disproportionately high HIV-acquisition risk. A range of innovative mobile technologies are guided by the Gender-Affirmative Framework to promote the health of TGE communities, including through HIV prevention and care continuum outcomes. The aim of this review was to examine key features of existing mobile technologies that can be leveraged to advance the field of TGE-responsive mHealth. We systematically searched scientific records, gray literature, and the iOS and Android app distribution services. To be eligible, platforms and interventions needed to be tailored exclusively to a TGE user base, incorporate gender-affirming features, and be optimized for or adaptive to mobile technologies. Eligible interventions (N=24) were compared on evidence of utility, core functionalities, and dimensions of gender affirmation. Smartphone applications (apps) and webapps (n=16) were the most common delivery modality. Many interventions (n=9) aimed to address HIV-related outcomes and integrated gender-affirmative features. The most common gender-affirmative features originated in fields of human-computer interactions and informatics, or were crowdfunded by TGE developers. HIV-focused interventions incorporated evidence-based health behavior change strategies and utilized rigorous evaluation methods. Across modalities and disciplines, behavioral self-monitoring and access to HIV prevention services were the most frequent features. Over two-thirds of the interventions reviewed aimed to provide medical gender affirmation (e.g, provided guidance on obtaining medically sanctioned hormone therapies, or safely practicing non-medical options such as chest-binding) or psychological gender affirmation (e.g, provided linkage to mental health counseling). Our results show that mHealth and other technology-mediated interventions offer a diverse range of both evidence-based and innovative features; however, many have not been rigorously evaluated in a randomized controlled trial to support TGE users. A continuing commitment to evidence-based health behavior change strategies, exemplified by the HIV-focused interventions included in this review, is essential to advancing gender-affirmative mHealth. The unique and highly innovative features of platforms originating outside the fields of HIV prevention and care suggest new directions for TGE-responsive mHealth, and the need for more conscientious models of knowledge exchange with investigators across scientific disciplines, private-sector developers, and potential users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone J. Skeen
- PRIDE Health Research Consortium, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Demetria Cain
- PRIDE Health Research Consortium, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kristi E. Gamarel
- Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Lisa Hightow-Weidman
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Cathy J. Reback
- Friends Research Institute, Inc., Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Family Medicine, Center for HIV Identification, Prevention and Treatment Services, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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de Vries ALC, Richards C, Tishelman AC, Motmans J, Hannema SE, Green J, Rosenthal SM. Bell v Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust [2020] EWHC 3274: Weighing current knowledge and uncertainties in decisions about gender-related treatment for transgender adolescents. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF TRANSGENDER HEALTH 2021; 22:217-224. [PMID: 34240066 PMCID: PMC8118230 DOI: 10.1080/26895269.2021.1904330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Annelou L. C. de Vries
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location Vumc, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Christina Richards
- Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust and Regent’s University London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Amy C. Tishelman
- Department of Psychiatry and Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joz Motmans
- Transgender Infopunt, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sabine E. Hannema
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location Vumc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jamison Green
- Independent legal scholar and consulting expert in transgender health policy and ethics, World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH), USA
| | - Stephen M. Rosenthal
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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Anacker C, Sydnor E, Chen BK, LaGamma CC, McGowan JC, Mastrodonato A, Hunsberger HC, Shores R, Dixon RS, McEwen BS, Byne W, Meyer-Bahlburg HFL, Bockting W, Ehrhardt AA, Denny CA. Behavioral and neurobiological effects of GnRH agonist treatment in mice-potential implications for puberty suppression in transgender individuals. Neuropsychopharmacology 2021; 46:882-890. [PMID: 32919399 PMCID: PMC8115503 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-020-00826-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In the United States, ~1.4 million individuals identify as transgender. Many transgender adolescents experience gender dysphoria related to incongruence between their gender identity and sex assigned at birth. This dysphoria may worsen as puberty progresses. Puberty suppression by gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRHa), such as leuprolide, can help alleviate gender dysphoria and provide additional time before irreversible changes in secondary sex characteristics may be initiated through feminizing or masculinizing hormone therapy congruent with the adolescent's gender experience. However, the effects of GnRH agonists on brain function and mental health are not well understood. Here, we investigated the effects of leuprolide on reproductive function, social and affective behavior, cognition, and brain activity in a rodent model. Six-week-old male and female C57BL/6J mice were injected daily with saline or leuprolide (20 μg) for 6 weeks and tested in several behavioral assays. We found that leuprolide increases hyperlocomotion, changes social preference, and increases neuroendocrine stress responses in male mice, while the same treatment increases hyponeophagia and despair-like behavior in females. Neuronal hyperactivity was found in the dentate gyrus (DG) of leuprolide-treated females, but not males, consistent with the elevation in hyponeophagia and despair-like behavior in females. These data show for the first time that GnRH agonist treatment after puberty onset exerts sex-specific effects on social- and affective behavior, stress regulation, and neural activity. Investigating the behavioral and neurobiological effects of GnRH agonists in mice will be important to better guide the investigation of potential consequences of this treatment for youth experiencing gender dysphoria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Anacker
- Division of Systems Neuroscience, Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, Inc. (RFMH)/New York State Psychiatric Institute (NYSPI), New York, NY, 10032, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC), New York, NY, 10032, USA.
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, NYSPI, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
- Columbia University Stem Cell Initiative (CSCI), New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Ezra Sydnor
- Amgen Summer Scholars Program, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - Briana K Chen
- Doctoral Program in Neurobiology and Behavior (NB&B), Columbia University, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - Christina C LaGamma
- Division of Systems Neuroscience, Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, Inc. (RFMH)/New York State Psychiatric Institute (NYSPI), New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
| | - Josephine C McGowan
- Doctoral Program in Neurobiology and Behavior (NB&B), Columbia University, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - Alessia Mastrodonato
- Division of Systems Neuroscience, Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, Inc. (RFMH)/New York State Psychiatric Institute (NYSPI), New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC), New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Holly C Hunsberger
- Division of Systems Neuroscience, Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, Inc. (RFMH)/New York State Psychiatric Institute (NYSPI), New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC), New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Ryan Shores
- Division of Systems Neuroscience, Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, Inc. (RFMH)/New York State Psychiatric Institute (NYSPI), New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Rushell S Dixon
- Doctoral Program in Neurobiology and Behavior (NB&B), Columbia University, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - Bruce S McEwen
- Department of Immunology, Virology, and Microbiology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - William Byne
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC), New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Division of Gender, Sexuality, and Health, NYSPI, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Heino F L Meyer-Bahlburg
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC), New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Division of Gender, Sexuality, and Health, NYSPI, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Walter Bockting
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC), New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Division of Gender, Sexuality, and Health, NYSPI, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Anke A Ehrhardt
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC), New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Division of Gender, Sexuality, and Health, NYSPI, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Christine A Denny
- Division of Systems Neuroscience, Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, Inc. (RFMH)/New York State Psychiatric Institute (NYSPI), New York, NY, 10032, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC), New York, NY, 10032, USA.
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Leinung MC, Joseph J. Changing Demographics in Transgender Individuals Seeking Hormonal Therapy: Are Trans Women More Common Than Trans Men? Transgend Health 2021; 5:241-245. [PMID: 33644314 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2019.0070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The number of individuals seeking sex hormone therapy for gender dysphoria has been increasing. The prevalence gender dysphoria has recently been estimated as high as 390 to 460 per 100,000 with a consistently greater prevalence of trans women (MTF) than trans men (FTM). We report here the changing demographics encountered in our experience over the past 2 decades. Methods: We collected data on individuals receiving hormonal therapy in the transgender clinic at Albany Medical Center in upstate New York from 1990 to 2017. We analyzed temporal changes in the number, age, and gender identity of transgender individuals. Results: Through June 2017, a total of 421 transgender individuals were seen who initiated hormonal therapy after 1990. Over the past 25 years, there has been a significant increase in the number of individuals seen. The mean age at initiation has remained higher in MTF than in FTM but has decreased steadily in both groups with the overall average dropping <30 years since 2015 (27.5±10.6). Since 1990, there has been a steady increase in the percentage of FTM such that it is now equivalent to MTF. Conclusion: Consistent with many reports, we are seeing an increasing number of gender dysphoric individuals seeking hormonal therapy. The age at initiation has been dropping over the past 25 years, and we have seen a steady increase in the number of FTM such that the incidence now equals that of MTF. Possible reasons for these changes are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew C Leinung
- Department of Medicine, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Jalaja Joseph
- Department of Medicine, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
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Nieder TO, Mayer TK, Hinz S, Fahrenkrug S, Herrmann L, Becker-Hebly I. Individual Treatment Progress Predicts Satisfaction With Transition-Related Care for Youth With Gender Dysphoria: A Prospective Clinical Cohort Study. J Sex Med 2021; 18:632-645. [PMID: 33642235 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2020.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The number of adolescents presenting with gender dysphoria (GD) in healthcare services has increased significantly, yet specialized services offering transition-related care (TRC) for trans youth is lacking. AIM To investigate satisfaction with TRC, regret, and reasons for (dis)satisfaction with transition-related medical interventions (TRMIs) in trans adolescents who had presented to the Hamburg Gender Identity Service for children and adolescents (Hamburg GIS). METHODS Data were collected from a clinical cohort sample of 75 adolescents and young adults diagnosed with GD (81% assigned female at birth) aged 11 to 21 years (M = 17.4) at baseline and follow-up (on a spectrum of ongoing care, on average 2 years after initial consultation). To determine progress of the youth's medical transitions, an individual treatment progress score (ITPS) was calculated based on number of desired vs received TRMIs. OUTCOMES Main outcome measures were satisfaction with TRC at the time of follow-up, ITPS, social support, reasons for regret and termination of TRC, and (dis)satisfaction with TRMIs. RESULTS Participants underwent different stages of TRMIs, such as gender-affirming hormone treatment or surgeries, and showed overall high satisfaction with TRC received at the Hamburg GIS. Regression analysis indicated that a higher ITPS (an advanced transition treatment stage) was predictive of higher satisfaction with TRC. Sex assigned at birth, age, and time since initial consultation at the clinic showed no significant effects for satisfaction with TRC, while degree of social support showed a trend. No adolescents regretted undergoing treatment at follow-up. Additional analysis of free-text answers highlighted satisfaction mostly with the physical results of TRMI. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Because youth were more satisfied with TRC when their individual transition (ITPS) was more progressed, treatment should start in a timely manner to avoid distress from puberty or long waiting lists. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS This study is one of the first to report on treatment satisfaction among youth with GD from Europe. The ITPS allowed for a more detailed evaluation of TRMI wishes and experiences in relation to satisfaction with TRC and may close a gap in research on these treatments in adolescent populations. However, all participants were from the same clinic, and strict treatment eligibility criteria may have excluded certain trans adolescents from the study. Low identification rates with non-binary identities prevented comparisons between non-binary and binary genders. CONCLUSION The study highlights the role of TRMI and individual treatment or transition progress for youth's overall high satisfaction with TRC received at the Hamburg GIS. Nieder TO, Mayer TK, Hinz S, et al. Individual Treatment Progress Predicts Satisfaction With Transition-Related Care for Youth With Gender Dysphoria: A Prospective Clinical Cohort Study. J Sex Med 2021;18:632-645.
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Affiliation(s)
- T O Nieder
- Institute For Sex Research, Sexual Medicine, and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - T K Mayer
- Institute For Sex Research, Sexual Medicine, and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - S Hinz
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - S Fahrenkrug
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - L Herrmann
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Inga Becker-Hebly
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
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Teti M, Kerr S, Bauerband LA, Koegler E, Graves R. A Qualitative Scoping Review of Transgender and Gender Non-conforming People's Physical Healthcare Experiences and Needs. Front Public Health 2021; 9:598455. [PMID: 33614579 PMCID: PMC7892585 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.598455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Trans and gender non-conforming (TGNC) people experience poor health care and health outcomes. We conducted a qualitative scoping review of studies addressing TGNC people's experiences receiving physical health care to inform research and practice solutions. A systematic search resulted in 35 qualitative studies for analysis. Studies included 1,607 TGNC participants, ages 16–64 years. Analytic methods included mostly interviews and focus groups; the most common analysis strategy was theme analysis. Key themes in findings were patient challenges, needs, and strengths. Challenges dominated findings and could be summarized by lack of provider knowledge and sensitivity and financial and insurance barriers, which hurt TGNC people's health. Future qualitative research should explore the experiences of diverse and specific groups of TGNC people (youth, non-binary, racial/ethnic minority), include community-based methods, and theory development. Practice-wise, training for providers and skills and support for TGNC people to advocate to improve their health, are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Teti
- Department of Public Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Steffany Kerr
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - L A Bauerband
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Erica Koegler
- School of Social Work, University of Missouri St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Rebecca Graves
- Health Sciences Library, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
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48
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Guz S, Kattari SK, Atteberry-Ash B, Klemmer CL, Call J, Kattari L. Depression and Suicide Risk at the Cross-Section of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity for Youth. J Adolesc Health 2021; 68:317-323. [PMID: 32680801 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2020.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2020] [Revised: 05/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Adolescence is a developmental phase in which young people begin to explore their identity and seek to understand how their identity fits into the larger society. Although this is a developmental task for all adolescents, it is especially salient for sexual and gender minority youth. Owing to oppressive social structures and stigmatized identities, adolescents who identify as nonheterosexual or noncisgender are vulnerable to experiencing disproportionate adverse health outcomes. METHODS To further the literature on adolescent mental health among sexual and gender minority youth, this study analyzed a representative statewide sample of high school students (ages 14-18) to analyze how sexual orientation and gender identity are associated with depression and suicidality. RESULTS Results aligned with previous research demonstrating that sexual and gender minority youth were all at a heightened risk for depression. However, transgender youth and youth questioning their sexuality or gender were at especially heightened risk for experiencing depression and suicidality. CONCLUSION The findings of this study indicate a need to target or adapt direct services and programming for sexual and gender minority adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Guz
- University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration, Chicago, Illinois.
| | - Shanna K Kattari
- University of Michigan School of Social Work, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | - Cary L Klemmer
- University of Southern California Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jarrod Call
- University of Denver Graduate School of Social Work, Denver, Colorado
| | - Leonardo Kattari
- University of Michigan School of Social Work, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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49
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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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50
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Expósito-Campos P. A Typology of Gender Detransition and Its Implications for Healthcare Providers. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2021; 47:270-280. [PMID: 33427094 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2020.1869126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Gender detransition is an emerging yet poorly understood phenomenon in our society. In the absence of research, clinicians and researchers have applied the concept of detransition differently, leading to inconsistencies in its use. The article suggests a typology of gender detransition based on the cessation or the continuation of a transgender identity to address this issue. Implications of this typology for healthcare providers are discussed, emphasizing the increasing necessity of developing clinical guidelines for detransitioners. Finally, the article reflects on the possibilities of preventing detransition, which underlines the challenges that clinicians face when treating individuals with gender dysphoria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Expósito-Campos
- Clinical and Health Psychology and Research Methods, University of the Basque Country, Donostia, Spain
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