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Marconi M, Pagano MT, Ristori J, Bonadonna S, Pivonello R, Meriggiola MC, Motta G, Lombardo F, Mosconi M, Oppo A, Cocchetti C, Romani A, Federici S, Bruno L, Verde N, Lami A, Crespi CM, Marinelli L, Giordani L, Matarrese P, Ruocco A, Santangelo C, Contoli B, Masocco M, Minardi V, Chiarotti F, Fisher AD, Pierdominici M. Sociodemographic profile, health-related behaviours and experiences of healthcare access in Italian transgender and gender diverse adult population. J Endocrinol Invest 2024:10.1007/s40618-024-02362-x. [PMID: 38733428 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-024-02362-x] [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: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Information on the general health of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals continues to be lacking. To bridge this gap, the National Institute of Health in Italy together with the National Office against Racial Discriminations, clinical centres, and TGD organizations carried out a cross-sectional study to define the sociodemographic profile, health-related behaviours, and experiences of healthcare access in Italian TGD adult population. METHODS A national survey was conducted by Computer-Assisted Web Interviewing (CAWI) technique. Collected data were compared within the TGD subgroups and between TGD people and the Italian general population (IGP). RESULTS TGD respondents were 959: 65% assigned female at birth (AFAB) and 35% assigned male at birth (AMAB). 91.8% and 8.2% were binary and non-binary TGD respondents, respectively. More than 20% of the TGD population reported to be unemployed with the highest rate detectable in AMAB and non-binary people. Cigarette smoking and binge drinking were higher in the TGD population compared with IGP (p < 0.05), affecting TGD subgroups differently. A significant lower percentage of AFAB TGD people reported having had screening for cervical and breast cancer in comparison with AFAB IGP (p < 0.0001, in both cases). Over 40% was the percentage of AFAB and non-binary TGD people accessing healthcare who felt discriminated against because of their gender identity. CONCLUSIONS Our results are a first step towards a better understanding of the health needs of TGD people in Italy in order to plan the best policy choices for a more inclusive public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Marconi
- Reference Centre for Gender Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - M T Pagano
- Reference Centre for Gender Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - J Ristori
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Florence University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - S Bonadonna
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - R Pivonello
- Dipartimento Di Medicina Clinica E Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - M C Meriggiola
- Division of Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - G Motta
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Città Della Salute E Della Scienza di Torino, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - F Lombardo
- Laboratory of Semiology, Department of Experimental Medicine, Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - M Mosconi
- Gender Identity Development Service, Hospital S. Camillo-Forlanini, Rome, Italy
| | - A Oppo
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - C Cocchetti
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Florence University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - A Romani
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Florence University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - S Federici
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - L Bruno
- Dipartimento Di Medicina Clinica E Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - N Verde
- Dipartimento Di Medicina Clinica E Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - A Lami
- Division of Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - C M Crespi
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Città Della Salute E Della Scienza di Torino, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - L Marinelli
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Città Della Salute E Della Scienza di Torino, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - L Giordani
- Reference Centre for Gender Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - P Matarrese
- Reference Centre for Gender Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - A Ruocco
- Reference Centre for Gender Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - C Santangelo
- Reference Centre for Gender Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - B Contoli
- National Centre for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - M Masocco
- National Centre for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - V Minardi
- National Centre for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - F Chiarotti
- Reference Centre for Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - A D Fisher
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Florence University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - M Pierdominici
- Reference Centre for Gender Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
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2
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Santi D, Spaggiari G, Marinelli L, Cacciani M, Scipio S, Bichiri A, Profeta A, Granata ARM, Simoni M, Lanfranco F, Manieri C, Ghigo E, Motta G. Gender-affirming hormone treatment: friend or foe? Long-term follow-up of 755 transgender people. J Endocrinol Invest 2024; 47:1091-1100. [PMID: 37889433 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-023-02220-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Gender-affirming hormone treatment (GAHT) is one of the main demands of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people, who are usually categorised as transgender assigned-male-at birth (AMAB) and assigned-female-at birth (AFAB). The aim of the study is to investigate the long-term therapeutic management of GAHT, considering hormonal targets, treatment adjustments and GAHT safety. METHODS A retrospective, longitudinal, observational, multicentre clinical study was carried out. Transgender people, both AMAB and AFAB, were recruited from two Endocrinology Units in Italy (Turin and Modena) between 2005 and 2022. Each subject was managed with specific and personalized follow-up depending on the clinical practice of the Centre. All clinical data routinely collected were extracted, including anthropometric and biochemical parameters, lifestyle habits, GAHT regime, and cardiovascular events. RESULTS Three-hundred and two transgender AFAB and 453 transgender AMAB were included. Similar follow-up duration (p = 0.974) and visits' number (p = 0.384) were detected between groups. The transgender AFAB group reached therapeutic goals in less time (p = 0.002), fewer visits (p = 0.006) and fewer adjustments of GAHT scheme (p = 0.024). Accordingly, transgender AFAB showed a higher adherence to medical prescriptions compared to transgender AMAB people (p < 0.001). No significantly increased rate of cardiovascular events was detected in both groups. CONCLUSION Our real-world clinical study shows that transgender AFAB achieve hormone target earlier and more frequently in comparison to transgender AMAB individuals. Therefore, transgender AMAB people may require more frequent check-ups in order to tailor feminizing GAHT and increase therapeutic adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Santi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy.
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
- Unit of Andrology and Sexual Medicine of the Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy.
| | - G Spaggiari
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Andrology and Sexual Medicine of the Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - L Marinelli
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - M Cacciani
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - S Scipio
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - A Bichiri
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - A Profeta
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - A R M Granata
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Andrology and Sexual Medicine of the Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - M Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Andrology and Sexual Medicine of the Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - F Lanfranco
- Division of Endocrinology, Andrology and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, Humanitas Gradenigo, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - C Manieri
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - E Ghigo
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - G Motta
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy
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Oshima Y, Matsumoto Y, Terada S, Yamada N. Prevalence of Gender Dysphoria by Gender and Age in Japan: A Population-Based Internet Survey Using the Utrecht Gender Dysphoria Scale. J Sex Med 2022; 19:1185-1195. [PMID: 35431150 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2022.03.605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies have attempted to estimate the prevalence of gender dysphoria (GD) from a general population sample. However, no previous studies used reliable questionnaires. AIM To estimate the prevalence of GD in Japan by gender and age using the Utrecht Gender Dysphoria Scale (UGDS). METHODS A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 20,000 respondents between the ages of 20 and 69 who were registered with an internet research company. The study consisted of two phases. First, the participants were asked to self-identify their gender on two 5-point Likert scales. Second, the screened participants completed the UGDS. OUTCOMES Self-identified gender and GD were defined as follows: ambivalent gender (equally feeling like the birth gender and another gender), incongruent gender (a stronger sense of the latter vs the former), narrow GD (incongruent gender + UGDS score ≥ 41), and broad GD (ambivalent or incongruent gender + UGDS score ≥ 41). RESULTS Among the eligible participants, the age-adjusted proportions of those classified as male (n = 7827) and female (n = 8903) at birth were 6.0% and 5.9%, respectively, for ambivalent gender, and 0.93% and 1.0%, respectively, for incongruent gender. The age-adjusted prevalence of GD was 0.27% (95% confidence interval, 0.18-0.42) and 0.35% (95% confidence interval, 0.25-0.50) for narrow GD and 0.87% (95% confidence interval, 0.69-1.1) and 1.1% (95% confidence interval, 0.86-1.3) for broad GD, respectively. No significant gender differences were found within the age groups, except for broad GD in respondents in their 50s (P = .016). However, for both genders, significant differences were found between age groups such that GD was more prevalent in younger vs older respondents, except for broad GD in respondents classified as female at birth (P = .063). CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Clinicians should be aware that the prevalence of GD is not negligible and that it varies with age. GD should be assessed in detail from various perspectives in addition to self-identified gender. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS This study used a reliable questionnaire to examine the prevalence of GD in a large population. However, the participants did not represent the general population because this was an internet survey. CONCLUSION The prevalence of GD was much higher than previously estimated by clinic-based studies, and was more frequently associated with participant age vs gender. Oshima Y, Matsumoto Y, Terada S, et al. Prevalence of Gender Dysphoria by Gender and Age in Japan: A Population-based Internet Survey Using the Utrecht Gender Dysphoria Scale. J Sex Med 2022;19:1185-1195.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshitaka Oshima
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan.
| | - Yosuke Matsumoto
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama, Japan
| | - Seishi Terada
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Norihito Yamada
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
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Prevalence and Correlates of Sexually Transmitted Infections in Transgender People: An Italian Multicentric Cross-Sectional Study. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11102774. [PMID: 35628902 PMCID: PMC9147923 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11102774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The burden of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the transgender population remains an underestimated issue. The aims of the present study were to evaluate the prevalence of either self-reported and serological STIs and to describe socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of transgender individuals with STIs. A consecutive series of 705 transgender individuals (assigned-male at birth, AMAB n = 377; assigned-female at birth, AFAB n = 328) referring to six Italian gender clinics were included. Sociodemographic and clinical information was collected during the first visit. In a subsample of 126 individuals prevalence of STIs (human immunodeficiency virus, HIV; hepatitis C, HCV; hepatitis B, HBV; syphilis) were evaluated through serology tests. The self-reported prevalence of HIV, HBV, HCV and syphilis infection in the total sample were 3.4%, 1.6%, 2.6% and 2.0%, respectively. In the subsample who underwent serological tests, higher rates of serological prevalence were found (9.5%, 4.0%, 5.6% and 7.9% for HIV, HBV, HCV and syphilis, respectively). When comparing transgender people with or without self-reported STIs, unemployment, previous incarceration, justice problems and sex work resulted more frequent in the first group (p< 0.03 for all). Regarding health status, we observed higher rates of lifetime substance abuse and psychiatric morbidities in trans people with at least one reported STI (p < 0.05). The prevalence of STIs exceeded that reported in general population and STIs correlates underline the importance of stigma and discrimination as determinants of transgender health.
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5
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Pinna F, Paribello P, Somaini G, Corona A, Ventriglio A, Corrias C, Frau I, Murgia R, El Kacemi S, Galeazzi GM, Mirandola M, Amaddeo F, Crapanzano A, Converti M, Piras P, Suprani F, Manchia M, Fiorillo A, Carpiniello B. Mental health in transgender individuals: a systematic review. Int Rev Psychiatry 2022; 34:292-359. [PMID: 36151828 DOI: 10.1080/09540261.2022.2093629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Several lines of evidence indicate the prevalence of mental health disorders in Transgender (TG) individuals is higher than that of cisgender individuals or the general population. In this systematic review, we aim to propose a summary of some of the most significant research investigating mental health disorders' prevalence among this population. We performed a double-blind systematic review using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses reporting (PRISMA) on PUBMED/MEDLINE and SCOPUS, specifically using peer-reviewed articles examining the mental health status of transgender (TG) individuals. This review did not exclude any research based on publication date. The last search was performed in February 2022. The employed search strategy led to the selection of 165 peer-reviewed articles. The majority of these papers presented a cross-sectional design with self-reported diagnoses and symptoms, signaling a significant prevalence of mental health disorders amongst TG Individuals. Of the reviewed articles, 72 examined the prevalence of mood and anxiety disorders; 8 examined eating disorders; 43 examined the prevalence of suicidal or self-harm ideation or behaviors; 5 papers examined the prevalence of trauma and stress-related disorders; 10 examined the frequency of personality disorders; 44 examined substance use disorders; and 9 papers examined the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder. Finally, 22 studies reported on the prevalence of TG individuals diagnosed with co-morbid mental health disorders or unspecified mental disorders. Our findings coincide with existing research, which indicates TG individuals do experience a higher prevalence of mental health disorders than that of the general population or cisgender individuals. However, further research is needed to address the existing gaps in knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Pinna
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Pasquale Paribello
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giulia Somaini
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alice Corona
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonio Ventriglio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Carolina Corrias
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Ilaria Frau
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberto Murgia
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Sabrina El Kacemi
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Galeazzi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Dipartimento ad attività integrata di Salute Mentale e Dipendenze Patologiche, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Massimo Mirandola
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Infectious Diseases Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,School of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
| | - Francesco Amaddeo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Andrea Crapanzano
- Department of Counseling, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Manlio Converti
- Dipartimento di salute mentale, ASL Napoli 2 Nord, Naples, Italy
| | - Paola Piras
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Federico Suprani
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mirko Manchia
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Andrea Fiorillo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Bernardo Carpiniello
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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Fisher AD, Senofonte G, Cocchetti C, Guercio G, Lingiardi V, Meriggiola MC, Mosconi M, Motta G, Ristori J, Speranza AM, Pierdominici M, Maggi M, Corona G, Lombardo F. SIGIS-SIAMS-SIE position statement of gender affirming hormonal treatment in transgender and non-binary people. J Endocrinol Invest 2022; 45:657-673. [PMID: 34677807 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-021-01694-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Gender Incongruence (GI) is a marked and persistent incongruence between an individual's experienced and the assigned gender at birth. In the recent years, there has been a considerable evolution and change in attitude as regards to gender nonconforming people. METHODS According to the Italian Society of Gender, Identity and Health (SIGIS), the Italian Society of Andrology and Sexual Medicine (SIAMS) and the Italian Society of Endocrinology (SIE) rules, a team of experts on the topic has been nominated by a SIGIS-SIAMS-SIE Guideline Board on the basis of their recognized clinical and research expertise in the field, and coordinated by a senior author, has prepared this Position statement. Later on, the present manuscript has been submitted to the Journal of Endocrinological Investigation for the normal process of international peer reviewing after a first internal revision process made by the SIGIS-SIAMS-SIE Guideline Board. RESULTS In the present document by the SIGIS-SIAMS-SIE group, we propose experts opinions concerning the psychological functioning, gender affirming hormonal treatment, safety concerns, emerging issues in transgender healthcare (sexual health, fertility issues, elderly trans people), and an Italian law overview aimed to improve gender non-conforming people care. CONCLUSION In this Position statement, we propose experts opinions concerning the psychological functioning of transgender people, the gender-affirming hormonal treatment (full/partial masculinization in assigned female at birth trans people, full/partial feminization and de-masculinization in assigned male at birth trans people), the emerging issues in transgender health care aimed to improve patient care. We have also included an overview of Italian law about gender affirming surgery and registry rectification.
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Affiliation(s)
- A D Fisher
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Florence University Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - G Senofonte
- Laboratory of Seminology, Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - C Cocchetti
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Florence University Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - G Guercio
- Studio Legale Avv. Giovanni Guercio, Via Antonio Mordini, 14, 00195, Rome, Italy
| | - V Lingiardi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Via degli Apuli 1, 00185, Roma, Italy
| | - M C Meriggiola
- Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Mosconi
- Gender Identity Development Service, Hospital S. Camillo-Forlanini, Rome, Italy
| | - G Motta
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - J Ristori
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Florence University Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - A M Speranza
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Via degli Apuli 1, 00185, Roma, Italy
| | - M Pierdominici
- Center for Gender Specific Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - M Maggi
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Careggi University Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - G Corona
- Endocrinology Unit, Medical Department, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Azienda-Usl, Bologna, Italy
| | - F Lombardo
- Laboratory of Seminology, Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy.
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7
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Psychological Wellbeing and Perceived Social Acceptance in Gender Diverse Individuals. J Sex Med 2021; 18:1933-1944. [PMID: 37057485 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2021.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over the last few years, the gender binary has been questioned, highlighting the existence of gender diverse people, who identify as neither (exclusively) male nor female. AIM The present study evaluated the possible differences in terms of psychological wellbeing between binary and gender diverse individuals, as well as the role of perceived social acceptance and religious fundamentalism as possible mediators of psychopathology in gender diverse people. Furthermore, the diversity of gender-affirming hormonal treatment requests according to gender identification was investigated. METHODS A sample of 563 transgender people aged 18-70 was enrolled (n = 264 assigned female at birth, AFAB and n = 299 assigned male at birth, AMAB), all individuals referring to several Italian gender clinics. A subdivision of the study population based on the gender identity visual analog scale (GI-VAS) median was performed, in order to distinguish between gender diverse and binary transgender individuals. Moreover, a linear regression analysis was performed entering logarithmically transformed GI-VAS (Log GI-VAS) into the models with psychometric scales. OUTCOMES Psychometric and sociodemographic data, as well as information regarding requests for gender-affirming treatments, were extrapolated from the clinical interviews conducted during the first referral. RESULTS Gender diverse individuals showed significantly less intense gender dysphoria and higher levels of depression and anxiety compared to binary ones; accordingly, a less binary gender identity correlated with higher levels of depression and anxiety and lower levels of gender dysphoria. The depressive symptomatology in gender diverse people was partially mediated by perceived discrimination and humiliation. Moreover, gender diverse AMAB people sought a non-standard hormonal treatment more often than their binary counterpart. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS The present study highlights the importance for transgender health professionals, when planning gender-affirming hormonal treatments, to offer flexible interventions, tailored on the patient's needs and goals. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS Strengths included exploring whether and how perceived discrimination may affect mental health in gender diverse people. Limitations included the enrolled sample of people referring to different gender clinics, which is not fully representative of the transgender population. CONCLUSION This study highlights the importance of evaluating each individual's unique health care needs, exploring each single request and its underlying reasons. Romani A., Mazzoli F., Ristori J., et al. Psychological Wellbeing and Perceived Social Acceptance in Gender Diverse Individuals. J Sex Med 2021;18:1933-1944.
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Psychiatric morbidity among adult transgender people in Iran. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 142:33-39. [PMID: 34314992 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.07.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Psychiatric morbidity among transgender and gender diverse people is thought to be to an important extent related to socio-cultural intolerance, but such morbidity has been understudied in non-western socio-political contexts. This study aims to report the psychiatric profiles of clients who are seeking gender-affirming treatment in a gender clinic in Iran. All transgender people who were consecutively referred to the Mashhad University of Medical Sciences in Mashhad, Iran, between February 2015 and December 2016 were investigated. Clients were evaluated during at least four sessions when sociodemographic and psychiatric characteristics were collected. Out of 209 clients, 205 were included (transmen (TM), N = 110; transwomen (TW) N = 95). A subset of these were assessed using Structured Clinical Interview based for DSM-5 (n = 154). The mean age of participants was 24.41 (SD = 6.316; range, 15-43). There was no significant difference between transmen and transwomen (p = 0.960); 48% (80 out of 154) of participants were found to have at least one current psychiatric condition currently, and 67% (138 out of 205) during their lifetime. Depressive and trauma- and stressor-related disorders were the most common conditions. Prevalence rates were similar in both genders. In both TM and TW groups, as many as 70% of the clients reported that they had experienced suicidal ideation. These findings are surprisingly similar to those of western studies despite the more extreme difficulties Iranian transgender people face in their lives in a non-western socio-political context.
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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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Abstract
Gender identity development is complex and involves several key processes. Transgender people experience incongruence between their biological and identified gender. This incongruence can cause significant impairment in overall functioning and lead to gender dysphoria (GD). The pathophysiology of GD is complex and is poorly understood. A PubMed search based on predetermined eligibility criteria was conducted to review neuropsychiatric articles focused on neurological, biological and neuroimaging aspects of gender development, transgender identity and GD. The information obtained from the literature was then used to formulize a GD model. Distinct gray matter volume and brain activation and connectivity differences were found in individuals with GD compared to controls, suggesting a neurobiological basis of GD; which leads to the concept of brain gender. Individuals with GD encounter a recurrent conflict between their brain gender and the societal feedback; which causes recurrent and ongoing cognitive dissonance, finally leading to GD and functional connectivity and activation changes in the transgender brain. GD has neurobiological basis, but it is closely associated with the individuals' interaction with the external world, their self-perception and the feedback received in return. We propose a novel model where the development of GD includes cognitive dissonance, involving anterior cingulate cortex and ventral striatum as the key brain structures. This model can be used to generate testable hypotheses using behavioral and neuroimaging techniques to understand the neuropsychobiology of GD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murat Altinay
- Center for Behavioral Health, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue/P57, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA.
| | - Amit Anand
- Center for Behavioral Health, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue/P57, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
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Meyer G, Boczek U, Bojunga J. Hormonal Gender Reassignment Treatment for Gender Dysphoria. DEUTSCHES ARZTEBLATT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 117:725-732. [PMID: 33559593 DOI: 10.3238/arztebl.2020.0725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND No data are available at present on the prevalence of gender dysphoria (trans-identity) in Germany. On the basis of estimates from the Netherlands, it can be calculated that approximately 15 000 to 25 000 persons in Germany are affected. Persons suffering from gender dysphoria often experience significant distress and have a strong desire for gender reassignment treatment. METHODS This review is based on pertinent publications retrieved by a selective search in the PubMed database employing the searching terms "transsexualism," "transgender," "gender incongruence," "gender identity disorder," "gender-affirming hormone therapy," and "gender dysphoria." RESULTS In view of its far-reaching consequences, some of which are irreversible, hormonal gender reassignment treatment should only be initiated after meticulous individual consideration, with the approval of the treating psychiatrist/psychotherapist and after extensive information of the patient by an experienced endo - crinologist. Before the treatment is begun, the patient must be extensively screened for risk factors. The contraindications include severe preexisting thromboembolic diseases (mainly if untreated), hormone-sensitive tumors, and uncontrolled pre - existing chronic diseases such as arterial hypertension and epilepsy. Finding an appropriate individual solution is the main objective even if contraindications are present. Male-to-female treatment is carried out with 17β-estradiol or 17β-estradiol valerate in combination with cyproterone acetate or spironolactone as an antiandrogen, female-to-male treatment with transdermal or intramuscular testosterone preparations. The treatment must be monitored permanently with clinical and laboratory follow-up as well as with gynecological and urological early-detection screening studies. Prospective studies and a meta-analysis (based on low-level evidence) have documented an improvement in the quality of life after gender reassignment treatment. Female-to-male gender-incongruent persons often have difficulty being accepted in a gynecological practice as a male patient. CONCLUZION Further prospective studies for the quantification of the risks and benefits of hormonal treatment would be desirable. Potential interactions of the hormone preparations with other medications must always be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gesine Meyer
- Medical Clinic I: Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Pneumology and Allergology, Endocrinology and Diabetology, Nutritional Medicine, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
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Sexual orientation in transgender individuals: results from the longitudinal ENIGI study. Int J Impot Res 2021; 33:694-702. [PMID: 33483604 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-020-00402-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Transgender people and their next-of-kin may request information on sexual orientation and preferred partners during hormonal affirming process. Although previous research on sexual orientation in transgender people is extensive, this literature may already be outdated and/or the methodology of studies assessing sexual orientation may fall short. This prospective cohort study was part of the European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI). Gender role and preferred partner in sexual fantasies, sexual orientation and gender of current sexual partner were assessed at baseline (initiation of HT) and every follow-up visit. Data from 469 transgender women (TW) and 433 transgender men (TM) were analyzed cross-sectionally and prospectively. At baseline, more than half reported having no partner (35% of TW, 47% of TM). After 12 months, more than half reported having a partner (59% of TW, 56% of TM), with no changes between one and three years of HT. The majority of TM preferred a female partner, TW preferred male and female partners. The sexual identity of their partner matched their sexual orientation in >80%. Sexual orientation did not change over time. We did not observe associations with serum levels of sex steroids or gender-affirming surgery (chest or genital surgery). Sexual orientation did not change during hormonal transition and was not associated with sex steroids or surgery. Also, preferences matched the partner's sexual identity. We do not assume that changing serum levels of sex steroids is directly associated with changes in partner choice. The number of people with a current partner increased, possibly due to the indirect effects of gender-affirming care.
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Real AG, Fontanari AMV, Costa AB, Soll BMB, Bristot G, de Oliveira LF, Kamphorst AM, Schneider MA, Lobato MIR. Gender dysphoria: prejudice from childhood to adulthood, but no impact on inflammation. A cross-sectional controlled study. TRENDS IN PSYCHIATRY AND PSYCHOTHERAPY 2021; 43:37-46. [PMID: 33681906 PMCID: PMC7932037 DOI: 10.47626/2237-6089-2020-0007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gender dysphoria (GD) is characterized by a marked incongruence between experienced gender and one's gender assigned at birth. Transsexual individuals present a higher prevalence of psychiatric disorders when compared to non-transsexual populations, and it has been proposed that minority stress, i.e., discrimination or prejudice, has a relevant impact on these outcomes. Transsexuals also show increased chances of having experienced maltreatment during childhood. Interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-10 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) are inflammatory cytokines that regulate our immune system. Imbalanced levels in such cytokines are linked to history of childhood maltreatment and psychiatric disorders. We compared differences in IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10 and TNF-α levels and exposure to traumatic events in childhood and adulthood in individuals with and without GD (DSM-5). METHODS Cross-sectional controlled study comparing 34 transsexual women and 31 non-transsexual men. They underwent a thorough structured interview, assessing sociodemographic information, mood and anxiety symptoms, childhood maltreatment, explicit discrimination and suicidal ideation. Inflammatory cytokine levels (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10 and TNF-α) were measured by multiplex immunoassay. RESULTS Individuals with GD experienced more discrimination (p = 0.002) and childhood maltreatment (p = 0.046) than non-transsexual men. Higher suicidal ideation (p < 0.001) and previous suicide attempt (p = 0.001) rates were observed in transsexual women. However, no differences were observed in the levels of any cytokine. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that transsexual women are more exposed to stressful events from childhood to adulthood than non-transsexual men and that GD per se does not play a role in inflammatory markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Gonzales Real
- Programa de Identidade de GêneroHospital de Clínicas de Porto AlegreUniversidade Federal do Rio Grande do SulPorto AlegreRSBrazilPrograma de Identidade de Gênero (PROTIG), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Psiquiatria e Ciências do ComportamentoUFRGSPorto AlegreRSBrazilPrograma de Pós-Graduação em Psiquiatria e Ciências do Comportamento, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Anna Martha Vaitses Fontanari
- Programa de Identidade de GêneroHospital de Clínicas de Porto AlegreUniversidade Federal do Rio Grande do SulPorto AlegreRSBrazilPrograma de Identidade de Gênero (PROTIG), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Psiquiatria e Ciências do ComportamentoUFRGSPorto AlegreRSBrazilPrograma de Pós-Graduação em Psiquiatria e Ciências do Comportamento, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Angelo Brandelli Costa
- Departamento de PsicologiaPontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do SulPorto AlegreRSBrazilDepartamento de Psicologia, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Bianca Machado Borba Soll
- Programa de Identidade de GêneroHospital de Clínicas de Porto AlegreUniversidade Federal do Rio Grande do SulPorto AlegreRSBrazilPrograma de Identidade de Gênero (PROTIG), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Psiquiatria e Ciências do ComportamentoUFRGSPorto AlegreRSBrazilPrograma de Pós-Graduação em Psiquiatria e Ciências do Comportamento, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Giovana Bristot
- INCT Translacional em MedicinaHospital de Clinicas de Porto AlegreUFRGSPorto AlegreRSBrazil Laboratório de Psiquiatria Molecular, INCT Translacional em Medicina, Hospital de Clinicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em BioquímicaUFRGSPorto AlegreRSBrazilPrograma de Pós-Graduação em Bioquímica, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Larissa Fagundes de Oliveira
- INCT Translacional em MedicinaHospital de Clinicas de Porto AlegreUFRGSPorto AlegreRSBrazil Laboratório de Psiquiatria Molecular, INCT Translacional em Medicina, Hospital de Clinicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Ana Maria Kamphorst
- Programa de Identidade de GêneroHospital de Clínicas de Porto AlegreUniversidade Federal do Rio Grande do SulPorto AlegreRSBrazilPrograma de Identidade de Gênero (PROTIG), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Maiko Abel Schneider
- Programa de Identidade de GêneroHospital de Clínicas de Porto AlegreUniversidade Federal do Rio Grande do SulPorto AlegreRSBrazilPrograma de Identidade de Gênero (PROTIG), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Psiquiatria e Ciências do ComportamentoUFRGSPorto AlegreRSBrazilPrograma de Pós-Graduação em Psiquiatria e Ciências do Comportamento, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Maria Inês Rodrigues Lobato
- Programa de Identidade de GêneroHospital de Clínicas de Porto AlegreUniversidade Federal do Rio Grande do SulPorto AlegreRSBrazilPrograma de Identidade de Gênero (PROTIG), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Psiquiatria e Ciências do ComportamentoUFRGSPorto AlegreRSBrazilPrograma de Pós-Graduação em Psiquiatria e Ciências do Comportamento, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
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Giovanardi G, Fortunato A, Mirabella M, Speranza AM, Lingiardi V. Gender Diverse Children and Adolescents in Italy: A Qualitative Study on Specialized Centers' Model of Care and Network. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17249536. [PMID: 33352745 PMCID: PMC7766564 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17249536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, Italy, similar to many other countries, has witnessed an increase in children and adolescents presenting gender incongruence. This trend has led to the development and implementation of specialized centers providing care and support for these youths and their families. The present study aimed at investigating the functioning of agencies specialized in working with transgender and gender non-conforming youths in the Italian territory. Professionals in these agencies were interviewed about their perspectives on their agency's functioning, networks with other services, and work with trans* youths and their families. A semi-structured interview was developed and administered to professionals in specialized centers and associations dedicated to trans * youths, and deductive thematic analysis was applied to the transcripts. Eight professionals were interviewed: six working in specialized centers and two working in associations. The qualitative analyses of transcripts revealed four main themes, pertaining to service referrals, assessment protocols and intervention models, psychological support for youths and families, and agency shortcomings. The study explored the functioning of Italian agencies specialized in caring for transgender and gender non-conforming youths, from the perspective of professionals working in these agencies. While several positive aspects of the work emerged, the study highlighted a lack of uniformity across the Italian territory and the need for better networks between agencies and other medical professionals.
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Rich AJ, Scheim AI, Koehoorn M, Poteat T. Non-HIV chronic disease burden among transgender populations globally: A systematic review and narrative synthesis. Prev Med Rep 2020; 20:101259. [PMID: 33335828 PMCID: PMC7732872 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2020.101259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic disease is a growing concern for research, policy and clinical care. While the global burden of HIV for transgender populations has been comprehensively covered in recent systematic reviews, the same is not true for the burden of other chronic disease. The objective of this study was to review the literature on non-HIV chronic disease burden for transgender populations worldwide. A systematic review was conducted of Medline, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO and LGBT Life bibliographic databases for peer-reviewed scientific studies with non-HIV chronic disease prevalence data for transgender populations published any date up to February 15, 2019 without restriction on country or study design. A total of 93 studies and 665 datapoints were included in this review, comprising 48 distinct chronic disease outcomes in seven groups (cancer, cerebro/cardiovascular conditions, chronic liver and kidney disease, mental health and substance use conditions, metabolic and endocrine disorders, musculoskeletal and brain disorders, respiratory conditions, and unspecified and other conditions). The empirical literature on chronic disease among global transgender populations focuses on mental health morbidity, demonstrating an evidence gap on chronic physical health morbidity, particularly beyond that of sexual health. This review identified important gaps including in age-related conditions, inflammation-related disease and studies designed explicitly to investigate chronic disease burden among transgender populations. There is a need for high quality evidence in this area, including longitudinal population-based studies with appropriate comparison groups, and consistent measurement of both transgender status and chronic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashleigh J. Rich
- School of Population & Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Corresponding author.
| | - Ayden I. Scheim
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Mieke Koehoorn
- School of Population & Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Tonia Poteat
- Department of Social Medicine, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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Gil-Llario MD, Gil-Juliá B, Giménez-García C, Bergero-Miguel T, Ballester-Arnal R. Sexual behavior and sexual health of transgender women and men before treatment: Similarities and differences. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF TRANSGENDER HEALTH 2020; 22:304-315. [PMID: 34240073 PMCID: PMC8118227 DOI: 10.1080/26895269.2020.1838386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a lack of research on the sexual health of transgender individuals, as well as a paucity of data about overall sexual health indexes before treatment. AIMS This study aims to analyze the main issues involved in transgender individuals' sexual behavior (with and without a partner), overall sexual health indexes, and potential predictors of sexual health, comparing trans men and trans women on all the variables assessed. METHODS 260 trans people were recruited at a transgender health clinic in Spain. Participants completed the Sexual Behavior Questionnaire for transgender people before receiving any treatment. RESULTS Overall results show that trans women have a more ego-dystonic and problematic experience of their sexuality. Regarding masturbation, there are no differences in its frequency between trans women and trans men, although there are differences in the reasons they do not masturbate. Regarding sexual behavior with a partner, trans women experience more difficulties than trans men, with significant differences in several areas (e.g., the percentage of transgender individuals who never allow their partners to touch their genitals). Regarding sexual health, we found differences between groups, with lower sexual desire, sexual arousal without orgasm, and overall sexual health in trans women. Likewise, different variables such as pain during sex, fantasies, and time with a steady partner seem to be associated with the different sexual health indexes. CONCLUSION Our results show a clear difference between trans women and trans men in most of the sexual aspects assessed, revealing greater gender dysphoria in trans women. We would recommend taking these data into account, as well as variables that may be associated with different sexual health indexes, when designing interventions for transgender people.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Beatriz Gil-Juliá
- Department of Personality, Evaluation and Psychological Treatments, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Cristina Giménez-García
- Department of Basic and Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Jaume I University, Castellón, Spain
| | | | - Rafael Ballester-Arnal
- Department of Basic and Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Jaume I University, Castellón, Spain
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Wiepjes CM, den Heijer M, Bremmer MA, Nota NM, de Blok CJM, Coumou BJG, Steensma TD. Trends in suicide death risk in transgender people: results from the Amsterdam Cohort of Gender Dysphoria study (1972-2017). Acta Psychiatr Scand 2020; 141:486-491. [PMID: 32072611 PMCID: PMC7317390 DOI: 10.1111/acps.13164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Revised: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study explored the overall suicide death rate, the incidence over time, and the stage in transition where suicide deaths were observed in transgender people. METHODS A chart study, including all 8263 referrals to our clinic since 1972. Information on death occurrence, time, and cause of death was obtained from multiple sources. RESULTS Out of 5107 trans women (median age at first visit 28 years, median follow-up time 10 years) and 3156 trans men (median age at first visit 20 years, median follow-up time 5 years), 41 trans women and 8 trans men died by suicide. In trans women, suicide deaths decreased over time, while it did not change in trans men. Of all suicide deaths, 14 people were no longer in treatment, 35 were in treatment in the previous two years. The mean number of suicides in the years 2013-2017 was higher in the trans population compared with the Dutch population. CONCLUSIONS We observed no increase in suicide death risk over time and even a decrease in suicide death risk in trans women. However, the suicide risk in transgender people is higher than in the general population and seems to occur during every stage of transitioning. It is important to have specific attention for suicide risk in the counseling of this population and in providing suicide prevention programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. M. Wiepjes
- Department of EndocrinologyAmsterdam UMCVU University Medical CenterAmsterdamthe Netherlands,Center of Expertise on Gender DysphoriaAmsterdam UMCVU University Medical CenterAmsterdamthe Netherlands
| | - M. den Heijer
- Department of EndocrinologyAmsterdam UMCVU University Medical CenterAmsterdamthe Netherlands,Center of Expertise on Gender DysphoriaAmsterdam UMCVU University Medical CenterAmsterdamthe Netherlands
| | - M. A. Bremmer
- Center of Expertise on Gender DysphoriaAmsterdam UMCVU University Medical CenterAmsterdamthe Netherlands,Department of PsychiatryAmsterdam UMCVU University Medical CenterAmsterdamthe Netherlands
| | - N. M. Nota
- Department of EndocrinologyAmsterdam UMCVU University Medical CenterAmsterdamthe Netherlands,Center of Expertise on Gender DysphoriaAmsterdam UMCVU University Medical CenterAmsterdamthe Netherlands
| | - C. J. M. de Blok
- Department of EndocrinologyAmsterdam UMCVU University Medical CenterAmsterdamthe Netherlands,Center of Expertise on Gender DysphoriaAmsterdam UMCVU University Medical CenterAmsterdamthe Netherlands
| | - B. J. G. Coumou
- Center of Expertise on Gender DysphoriaAmsterdam UMCVU University Medical CenterAmsterdamthe Netherlands,Department of Medical PsychologyAmsterdam UMCVU University Medical CenterAmsterdamthe Netherlands
| | - T. D. Steensma
- Center of Expertise on Gender DysphoriaAmsterdam UMCVU University Medical CenterAmsterdamthe Netherlands,Department of Medical PsychologyAmsterdam UMCVU University Medical CenterAmsterdamthe Netherlands
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Meyer G, Mayer M, Mondorf A, Herrmann E, Bojunga J. Increasing normality-persisting barriers: Current socio-demographic characteristics of 350 individuals diagnosed with gender dysphoria. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2020; 92:241-246. [PMID: 31821578 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The number of individuals requesting medical treatment for gender dysphoria has increased significantly within the past years. Our purpose was to examine current biographic and socio-demographic characteristics and aspects of legal gender reassignment. DESIGN Medical files from n = 350 individuals of a German Endocrine outpatient clinic were collected from 2009 to 2017 and analysed retrospectively. RESULTS Ratio of transwomen to transmen equates to 1:1.89 with a remarkable increase of transmen by the year 2013, showing a reversal of gender distribution compared with previous studies for the first time. Use of illegal substances or self-initiated hormone therapy was rare (4.6 and 2.1%). Satisfaction with gender-affirming hormone therapy was significantly higher in transmen than in transwomen (100% vs 96.2%, P = .005). Use of antidepressants declined significantly after onset of hormone treatment in transmen (13% vs 7%; P = .007). The number of individuals with a graduation diploma was only about half as high as in the general population (14.3% vs 27.3%), whereas unemployment rate was more than twice as high (14% vs 6.9%). Median latency between application for legal gender reassignment and definitive court decision was 9 months. CONCLUSIONS Our data provide possible indications for a decline of psychosocial burden in individuals diagnosed with gender dysphoria over the last years. However, affected individuals are still limited in their occupational and financial opportunities as well as by a complex and expensive procedure of legal gender reassignment in Germany.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gesine Meyer
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine 1, Goethe-University Hospital, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Moritz Mayer
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine 1, Goethe-University Hospital, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Antonia Mondorf
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine 1, Goethe-University Hospital, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Eva Herrmann
- Institute for Biostatistics and Mathematic Modelling, Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Jörg Bojunga
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine 1, Goethe-University Hospital, Frankfurt, Germany
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19
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Anzani A, De Panfilis C, Scandurra C, Prunas A. Personality Disorders and Personality Profiles in a Sample of Transgender Individuals Requesting Gender-Affirming Treatments. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E1521. [PMID: 32120872 PMCID: PMC7084367 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17051521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The study aims to explore the personality patterns of a group of transgender individuals who accessed an Italian gender clinic to undergo gender affirming treatments, by evaluating both dimensional personality domains proposed by the Alternative Model of Personality Disorders and categorical DSM-IV personality disorder (PD) diagnoses. Eighty-seven participants (40 transgender women and 47 transgender men) completed the Personality Inventory for DSM-5 and the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis II personality disorders. Scores obtained were compared to those of the normative samples of cisgender women and men. Results indicated that transgender women scored lower than cisgender women on two main domains (Negative Affectivity and Psychoticism) and on seven facets. As for transgender men, lower scores than cisgender men were found on Antagonism and on five facets. Transgender men scored higher than cisgender men on Depressivity. Nearly 50% of participants showed at least one PD diagnosis, with no gender differences in prevalence. Borderline PD was the most frequent diagnosis in the overall sample. Self-report measures provide a less maladaptive profile of personality functioning than the clinician-based categorical assessment. Results are interpreted in the light of the Minority Stress Model and support the need for a multi-method assessment of personality in medicalized transgender people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Anzani
- Department of Psychology, University of Milano–Bicocca, 20126 Milan, Italy;
- CREST, Centro per lo studio e la terapia dei disturbi di personalità, 20145 Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara De Panfilis
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43121 Parma, Italy;
| | - Cristiano Scandurra
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Antonio Prunas
- Department of Psychology, University of Milano–Bicocca, 20126 Milan, Italy;
- CREST, Centro per lo studio e la terapia dei disturbi di personalità, 20145 Milan, Italy
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20
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de Freitas LD, Léda-Rêgo G, Bezerra-Filho S, Miranda-Scippa Â. Psychiatric disorders in individuals diagnosed with gender dysphoria: A systematic review. Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2020; 74:99-104. [PMID: 31642568 DOI: 10.1111/pcn.12947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Revised: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIM Although there has been an increase in the social acceptance of the gender dysphoria (GD) population, these individuals still suffer a high degree of emotional stress, which highlights the importance of knowing their mental illness diagnosis. METHODS A systematic review was conducted to identify the frequency of lifetime Axis I mental disorders in this population, using the MEDLINE/PubMed, SciELO, Cochrane, EMBASE, and PsychINFO databases and manual searching, examining articles published after 1980. The search used the key words: ('transgender' OR 'gender identity disorder' OR 'gender dysphoria' OR 'transsexualism' OR 'gender dysphoric patients' OR 'gender incongruence') AND ('mental disorder' OR 'axis I' OR 'psychiatric disorders') AND ('comorbidity' OR 'comorbid' OR 'prevalence'). RESULTS From 233 papers found, five were included. The total sample comprised 577 individuals diagnosed with GD, of whom 307 (53.2%) had presented with at least one mental disorder in their lifetime. Among this high frequency of Axis I disorders, mood disorders were the most frequent (found in 243 individuals [42.1%]), followed by anxiety disorders (155 [26.8%]), and substance use/abuse disorders (85 [14.7%]). CONCLUSION This study offers important data to researchers and clinicians so they can recognize and contribute to the development of public policy on the mental health of the population diagnosed with GD. The mental health of these individuals requires special attention as it contributes to their functional impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Dias de Freitas
- Mood and Anxiety Disorders Program (CETHA), University Hospital, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Léda-Rêgo
- Mood and Anxiety Disorders Program (CETHA), University Hospital, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil.,Postgraduate Program in Medicine and Health, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Severino Bezerra-Filho
- Mood and Anxiety Disorders Program (CETHA), University Hospital, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil.,Postgraduate Program in Medicine and Health, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Ângela Miranda-Scippa
- Mood and Anxiety Disorders Program (CETHA), University Hospital, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil.,Postgraduate Program in Medicine and Health, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil.,Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Medical School, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
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21
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Lehmann K, Leavey G. Accuracy of psychometric tools in the assessment of personality in adolescents and adults requesting gender-affirming treatments: A systematic review. Eur Psychiatry 2019; 62:60-67. [PMID: 31546228 DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpsy.2019.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/07/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The assessment and screening for personality disorders in individuals requesting gender affirming treatments may be an important aspect of predicting medical and surgical outcomes for this population, but there is no consensus on how best to do so. AIMS To review the diagnostic accuracy of psychometric tools used for the assessment of personality disorders in those requesting gender affirming treatments. METHOD A systematic review: Prospero CRD42017078783 [1]. RESULTS Many studies have focussed on the assessment of personality disorders in this population, but since 1979, only two have used an index and reference test. CONCLUSION There are no agreed reference standards for this population and psychometric tools continue to be scored on reference data from the cisgender (not transgender) population. We need robust evidence on this issue, as individuals may be denied access to gender affirming treatments based on psychometric tools without established reliability in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Lehmann
- Bamford Centre for Mental Health, Ulster University, Belfast, Ireland.
| | - Gerard Leavey
- Bamford Centre for Mental Health, Ulster University, Belfast, Ireland
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22
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Ristori J, Fisher AD, Castellini G, Sensi C, Cipriani A, Ricca V, Maggi M. Gender Dysphoria and Anorexia Nervosa Symptoms in Two Adolescents. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2019; 48:1625-1631. [PMID: 30815831 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-1396-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2017] [Revised: 01/05/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The co-occurrence of gender dysphoria and anorexia nervosa has been described in the scientific literature. This paper presents two adolescents with gender dysphoria and pathological eating behaviors and questions with longitudinal observations the clinical meaning of anorexia nervosa symptoms (e.g., restricting eating behaviors and fear of gaining weight) in adolescents with gender dysphoria. Both received psychological evaluations at different times: at first admission to the gender dysphoria clinic (T0) and 6 months after starting treatment with gonadotropin-releasing analogues (GnRHa; T1). In both cases, treatment with GnRHa not only improved psychological functioning, but also resolved pathological eating behaviors. In fact, both adolescents reported quick restoring of healthy food habits with restricting eating behaviors as well as intensive exercise no longer needed after treatment with GnRHa. Therefore, pathological eating behaviors (e.g., food avoidance and weight loss) could be assessed as a dysfunctional coping strategy adopted to gain control over a body developing in an unwanted direction and to block irreversible physical pubertal changes. This psychopathological conceptualization of pathological eating behaviors in adolescents with gender dysphoria stresses the importance of providing, in selected cases, early medical intervention such as pubertal suppression with GnRHa. Mental health professionals should therefore perform a specific and detailed assessment on gender identity within the evaluation of apparent eating disorders in adolescents. Restrictive eating behaviors as well as the intense fear of gaining weight or of becoming fat may, in fact, be considered secondary to a gender dysphoria diagnosis instead of anorexia nervosa symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiska Ristori
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical, and Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini, 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessandra D Fisher
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical, and Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini, 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Giovanni Castellini
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Carolina Sensi
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Agnese Cipriani
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical, and Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini, 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Valdo Ricca
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Mario Maggi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical, and Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini, 6, 50139, Florence, Italy.
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical, and Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
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23
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Caldarera AM, Marengo D, Gerino E, Brustia P, Rollè L, Cohen-Kettenis PT. A Parent-Report Gender Identity Questionnaire for Children: Psychometric Properties of an Italian Version. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2019; 48:1603-1615. [PMID: 30810957 PMCID: PMC6594981 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-018-1372-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2016] [Revised: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
This article presents an Italian version of the Gender Identity Questionnaire for Children (GIQC) (Cohen-Kettenis et al., 2006; Johnson et al., 2004), a parent-report questionnaire covering a range of gender characteristics of children. We developed the GIQC-Italian version with the translation/back translation method and administered it, with a sociodemographic data sheet, to the parents of 1148 children aged 3-12 years (non-clinical sample). After obtaining descriptive data for each item, in line with Johnson et al. (2004), we examined dimensionality through exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Considering the results and that our sample was entirely non-clinical, we developed a new scoring procedure. The EFA on the new scores generated three scales: (1) a Female-Typical Behavior Scale, (2) a Male-Typical Behavior Scale, and (3) a Cross-Gender Scale. Additional EFA and confirmatory factor analyses (WLSMV estimator by using a 80/20 random-split-sample analytical approach) confirmed the three-factor solution as the best fitting dimensional structure for the revised GIQC. The Cronbach's α of the scales showed a satisfactory internal consistency. The frequency distribution of the scales scores showed it is possible to find atypical gender behavior and preferences in non-clinical samples. Independent samples t test confirmed a significant difference between boys' and girls' scores. Older children reported scores indicating less gender non-conforming characteristics than younger, except for the Female-Typical Behavior Scale in the girls' subsample. Results are discussed in the light of the existing literature about gender development. Our findings suggest that the GIQC-Italian version could be a useful tool for studying gender development in the Italian context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela M Caldarera
- Department of Psychology, University of Torino, Via Po, 14, 10123, Turin, TO, Italy.
| | - Davide Marengo
- Department of Psychology, University of Torino, Via Po, 14, 10123, Turin, TO, Italy
| | - Eva Gerino
- Department of Psychology, University of Torino, Via Po, 14, 10123, Turin, TO, Italy
| | - Piera Brustia
- Department of Psychology, University of Torino, Via Po, 14, 10123, Turin, TO, Italy
| | - Luca Rollè
- Department of Psychology, University of Torino, Via Po, 14, 10123, Turin, TO, Italy
| | - Peggy T Cohen-Kettenis
- Department of Medical Psychology, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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24
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Turan Ş, Aksoy Poyraz C, Usta Sağlam NG, Demirel ÖF, Haliloğlu Ö, Kadıoğlu P, Duran A. Alterations in Body Uneasiness, Eating Attitudes, and Psychopathology Before and After Cross-Sex Hormonal Treatment in Patients with Female-to-Male Gender Dysphoria. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2018; 47:2349-2361. [PMID: 29594702 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-018-1189-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2016] [Revised: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/02/2018] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Body dissatisfaction plays an important role in the development of psychiatric problems such as eating disorders as well as gender dysphoria (GD). Cross-sex hormonal treatment (CHT) alleviates the dissatisfaction by making various changes in the body. We examined the alteration of body uneasiness, eating attitudes and behaviors, and psychological symptoms longitudinally in Turkish participants with female-to-male gender dysphoria (FtM GD) after CHT. Thirty-seven participants with FtM GD and 40 female controls were asked to complete the Body Uneasiness Test to explore different areas of body-related psychopathology, the Eating Attitudes Test to assess eating disturbances, and the Symptom Checklist-90 Revised to measure psychological state, both before CHT and after 6 months of CHT administration. The baseline mean body weight, BMI scores, body uneasiness scores, and general psychopathological symptoms of participants with FtM GD were significantly higher than female controls, whereas baseline eating attitudes and behaviors were not significantly different. Over time, FtM GD participants' mean body weight and BMI scores increased, body uneasiness and general psychopathological symptoms decreased, and eating attitudes and behaviors had not changed at 24th weeks following CHT administration compared to baseline. CHT may have a positive impact on body uneasiness and general psychopathological symptoms in participants with FtM GD. However, CHT does not have an impact on eating attitudes and behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Şenol Turan
- Department of Psychiatry, Cerrahpaşa School of Medicine, Istanbul University, 34303, Kocamustafapaşa-Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Cana Aksoy Poyraz
- Department of Psychiatry, Cerrahpaşa School of Medicine, Istanbul University, 34303, Kocamustafapaşa-Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Nazife Gamze Usta Sağlam
- Department of Psychiatry, Cerrahpaşa School of Medicine, Istanbul University, 34303, Kocamustafapaşa-Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ömer Faruk Demirel
- Department of Psychiatry, Cerrahpaşa School of Medicine, Istanbul University, 34303, Kocamustafapaşa-Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Özlem Haliloğlu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Cerrahpaşa School of Medicine, Istanbul University, 34303, Kocamustafapaşa-Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Pınar Kadıoğlu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Cerrahpaşa School of Medicine, Istanbul University, 34303, Kocamustafapaşa-Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Alaattin Duran
- Department of Psychiatry, Cerrahpaşa School of Medicine, Istanbul University, 34303, Kocamustafapaşa-Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
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25
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Fisher AD, Ristori J, Morelli G, Maggi M. The molecular mechanisms of sexual orientation and gender identity. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 467:3-13. [PMID: 28847741 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Revised: 08/02/2017] [Accepted: 08/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Differences between males and females are widely represented in nature. There are gender differences in phenotypes, personality traits, behaviors and interests, cognitive performance, and proneness to specific diseases. The most marked difference in humans is represented by sexual orientation and core gender identity, the origins of which are still controversial and far from being understood. Debates continue on whether sexual behavior and gender identity are a result of biological (nature) or cultural (nurture) factors, with biology possibly playing a major role. The main goal of this review is to summarize the studies available to date on the biological factors involved in the development of both sexual orientation and gender identity. A systematic search of published evidence was performed using Medline (from January 1948 to June 2017). Review of the relevant literature was based on authors' expertise. Indeed, different studies have documented the possible role and interaction of neuroanatomic, hormonal and genetic factors. The sexual dimorphic brain is considered the anatomical substrate of psychosexual development, on which genes and gonadal hormones may have a shaping effect. In particular, growing evidence shows that prenatal and pubertal sex hormones permanently affect human behavior. In addition, heritability studies have demonstrated a role of genetic components. However, a convincing candidate gene has not been identified. Future studies (e.i. genome wide studies) are needed to better clarify the complex interaction between genes, anatomy and hormonal influences on psychosexual development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra D Fisher
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Jiska Ristori
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Girolamo Morelli
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular and of the Critical Area Pathology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Mario Maggi
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy.
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26
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Fisher AD, Ristori J, Castellini G, Sensi C, Cassioli E, Prunas A, Mosconi M, Vitelli R, Dèttore D, Ricca V, Maggi M. Psychological characteristics of Italian gender dysphoric adolescents: a case-control study. J Endocrinol Invest 2017; 40:953-965. [PMID: 28357782 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-017-0647-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 02/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Gender dysphoria (GD) is associated with clinically significant distress and impairment in social, scholastic, and other important areas of functioning, especially when early onset is reported. The aim of the present study is to assess the psychopathological features associated with GD in adolescence, comparing a group of gender dysphoric adolescents (GDs) with a group of non-referred adolescents (NRs), in terms of body uneasiness, suicide risk, psychological functioning, and intensity of GD. METHODS A sample of 46 adolescents with GD and 46 age-matched NRs was evaluated (mean ± SD age = 16.00 ± 1.49 and 16.59 ± 1.11 respectively, p > 0.05). Subjects were asked to complete the Body Uneasiness Test (BUT) to explore body uneasiness, the Youth Self Report (YSR) to measure psychological functioning, the Multi-Attitude Suicide Tendency Scale (MAST) for suicide risk, and the Gender Identity/Gender Dysphoria Questionnaire for Adolescents and Adults (GIDYQ-AA) for GD assessment. RESULTS Adolescents with GD reported significantly higher levels of body uneasiness (BUT-GSI, F = 380.13, p < 0.0001), as well as a worse psychological functioning (YSR, F = 13.06 and p < 0.0001 for "total problem scale" and F = 12.53, p = 0.001 for "internalizing" scale) as compared to NRs. When YSR subscales were considered, GDs showed significantly higher scores in the "withdrawal/depression", "anxiety/depression", and "social problems" (all p < 0.0001). In addition, GDs showed significantly higher levels in the "attraction to death" and "repulsion by life" scales and lower scores in the "attraction to life" scale (all p < 0.0001). Finally, GIDYQ-AA score was significantly lower (meaning a higher level of gender dysphoria symptoms) in GDs vs. NRs (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS GD adolescents reported significantly higher body dissatisfaction and suicidal risk compared to NRs. In addition, results confirmed a significant impairment in social psychological functioning in adolescents with GD.
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Affiliation(s)
- A D Fisher
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - J Ristori
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - G Castellini
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - C Sensi
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - E Cassioli
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - A Prunas
- Dipartimento di Psicologia Milano, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - M Mosconi
- Gender Identity Development Service, Hospital S. Camillo-Forlanini, Rome, Italy
| | - R Vitelli
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Scienze Riproduttive ed Odontostomatologiche Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - D Dèttore
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - V Ricca
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - M Maggi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
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Lingiardi V, Giovanardi G, Fortunato A, Nassisi V, Speranza AM. Personality and Attachment in Transsexual Adults. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2017; 46:1313-1323. [PMID: 28210932 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-017-0946-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2014] [Revised: 01/17/2017] [Accepted: 01/18/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The main aim of this study was to investigate the associations between personality features and attachment patterns in transsexual adults. We explored mental representations of attachment, assessed personality traits, and possible personality disorders. Forty-four individuals diagnosed with gender identity disorder (now gender dysphoria), 28 male-to-female and 16 female-to-male, were evaluated using the Shedler-Westen assessment procedure-200 (SWAP-200) to assess personality traits and disorders; the adult attachment interview was used to evaluate their attachment state-of-mind. With respect to attachment, our sample differed both from normative samples because of the high percentage of disorganized states of mind (50% of the sample), and from clinical samples for the conspicuous percentage of secure states of mind (37%). Furthermore, we found that only 16% of our sample presented a personality disorder, while 50% showed a high level of functioning according to the SWAP-200 scales. In order to find latent subgroups that shared personality characteristics, we performed a Q-factor analysis. Three personality clusters then emerged: Healthy Functioning (54% of the sample); Depressive/Introverted (32%) and Histrionic/Extroverted (14%). These data indicate that in terms of personality and attachment, GD individuals are a heterogeneous sample and show articulate and diverse types with regard to these constructs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittorio Lingiardi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinic Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 86, 00185, Rome, Italy.
| | - Guido Giovanardi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinic Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 86, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Alexandro Fortunato
- Department of Dynamic and Clinic Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 86, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Nassisi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinic Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 86, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Speranza
- Department of Dynamic and Clinic Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 86, 00185, Rome, Italy
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Fisher AD, Castellini G, Ristori J, Casale H, Giovanardi G, Carone N, Fanni E, Mosconi M, Ciocca G, Jannini EA, Ricca V, Lingiardi V, Maggi M. Who has the worst attitudes toward sexual minorities? Comparison of transphobia and homophobia levels in gender dysphoric individuals, the general population and health care providers. J Endocrinol Invest 2017; 40:263-273. [PMID: 27639401 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-016-0552-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2016] [Accepted: 09/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To date, few studies have addressed attitudes toward transgender individuals. In addition, little is known about health care providers' (HCP) attitudes toward sexual minorities. The aim of the present study is to compare attitudes toward homosexual and transgender individuals between gender dysphoric individuals (GDs), general population controls (C) and HCP. METHODS A total of 310 subjects were considered, including 122 GDs (63 transwomen and 59 transmen), 53 heterosexual HCP (26 males and 27 females) and 135 C. Participants completed the Modern Homophobia Scale (MHS) and the Attitudes Toward Transgendered Individuals Scale (ATTI) in order to assess attitudes toward gay men and lesbian women and toward transgender individuals, respectively. In addition, GDs completed the Gender Identity/Gender Dysphoria Questionnaire (GIDYQ-AA) and ATTI to measure, respectively, gender dysphoria levels and internalized transphobia. Religious attitudes were evaluated by means of the Religious Fundamentalism Scale (RFS), and Discrimination and Stigma Scale (DISC-12) was used to measure perceived discrimination. RESULTS (1) Men showed significantly higher levels of homophobia and transphobia when compared to women (p < 0.001); (2) perceived discrimination was higher in lesbian women compared to gay men and in transwomen compared to transmen (p < 0.001 and p < 0.05, respectively); and (3) religious fundamentalism was associated with both homophobia and transphobia (both p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Our results underline the need to promote awareness and acceptance of the sexual minorities, who are more at risk of discriminatory attitudes, which are strongly dependent on religious precepts and dogma.
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Affiliation(s)
- A D Fisher
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - G Castellini
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - J Ristori
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - H Casale
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - G Giovanardi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - N Carone
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - E Fanni
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - M Mosconi
- Gender Identity Development Service, Hospital S. Camillo-Forlanini, Rome, Italy
| | - G Ciocca
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - E A Jannini
- Chair of Endocrinology and Medical Sexology, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - V Ricca
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - V Lingiardi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - M Maggi
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
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Cussino M, Crespi C, Mineccia V, Molo M, Motta G, Veglia F. Sociodemographic characteristics and traumatic experiences in an Italian transgender sample. Int J Transgend 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/15532739.2016.1268082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Cussino
- Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Faculty of Communication Sciences, Institute for Public Communication, University of Lugano, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Chiara Crespi
- Carlo Molo Onlus Foundation, Turin, Italy
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Centro Interdipartimentale Disturbi d'Identità di Genere Molinette, City of Health and Science, Turin, Italy
| | - Valentina Mineccia
- Carlo Molo Onlus Foundation, Turin, Italy
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Centro Interdipartimentale Disturbi d'Identità di Genere Molinette, City of Health and Science, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Giovanna Motta
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Centro Interdipartimentale Disturbi d'Identità di Genere Molinette, City of Health and Science, Turin, Italy
| | - Fabio Veglia
- Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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Millet N, Longworth J, Arcelus J. Prevalence of anxiety symptoms and disorders in the transgender population: A systematic review of the literature. Int J Transgend 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/15532739.2016.1258353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nessa Millet
- School of Sport, Exercise, and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Julia Longworth
- Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, Nottingham National Centre for Transgender Health, Nottingham, UK
| | - Jon Arcelus
- Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, Nottingham National Centre for Transgender Health, Nottingham, UK
- University of Nottingham Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institute of Mental Health, Nottingham, UK
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31
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Ibrahim C, Haddad R, Richa S. Les comorbidités psychiatriques dans le transsexualisme : étude sur une population de transgenres libanais. L'ENCEPHALE 2016; 42:517-522. [DOI: 10.1016/j.encep.2016.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2014] [Accepted: 03/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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32
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Childhood Maltreatment Linked with a Deterioration of Psychosocial Outcomes in Adult Life for Southern Brazilian Transgender Women. J Immigr Minor Health 2016; 20:33-43. [DOI: 10.1007/s10903-016-0528-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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33
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Jones BA, Haycraft E, Murjan S, Arcelus J. Body dissatisfaction and disordered eating in trans people: A systematic review of the literature. Int Rev Psychiatry 2016; 28:81-94. [PMID: 26618239 DOI: 10.3109/09540261.2015.1089217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Body dissatisfaction plays a prominent role in gender dysphoria. In some individuals body dissatisfaction appears to manifest disordered eating in order to suppress bodily features of natal gender and accentuate features of gender identity. To date, there has been no systematic review of the literature pertaining to body dissatisfaction and disordered eating in trans individuals. Such a review may highlight important implications for clinicians working with trans people. Therefore, the aim was to critically and systematically review the available literature examining body dissatisfaction or disordered eating in a trans population, and also the literature pertaining to how body dissatisfaction and disordered eating are related in trans people. This review found three studies that explored disordered eating in trans people, five studies that explored body image and disordered eating in trans people, and 18 studies that explored body image in trans people. The findings from this review suggest that body dissatisfaction is core to the distress trans people experience and that this dissatisfaction may also put some individuals at risk of developing disordered eating. Additionally, the findings appear to suggest that gender dysphoria treatment is successful at increasing body satisfaction and improving body image. The clinical implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany Alice Jones
- a Nottingham Centre for Gender Dysphoria , Nottingham , UK ;,b School of Sport, Exercise, and Health Sciences, Loughborough University , Loughborough , UK
| | - Emma Haycraft
- b School of Sport, Exercise, and Health Sciences, Loughborough University , Loughborough , UK
| | - Sarah Murjan
- a Nottingham Centre for Gender Dysphoria , Nottingham , UK
| | - Jon Arcelus
- a Nottingham Centre for Gender Dysphoria , Nottingham , UK ;,b School of Sport, Exercise, and Health Sciences, Loughborough University , Loughborough , UK
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Abstract
Studies investigating the prevalence of psychiatric disorders among trans individuals have identified elevated rates of psychopathology. Research has also provided conflicting psychiatric outcomes following gender-confirming medical interventions. This review identifies 38 cross-sectional and longitudinal studies describing prevalence rates of psychiatric disorders and psychiatric outcomes, pre- and post-gender-confirming medical interventions, for people with gender dysphoria. It indicates that, although the levels of psychopathology and psychiatric disorders in trans people attending services at the time of assessment are higher than in the cis population, they do improve following gender-confirming medical intervention, in many cases reaching normative values. The main Axis I psychiatric disorders were found to be depression and anxiety disorder. Other major psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, were rare and were no more prevalent than in the general population. There was conflicting evidence regarding gender differences: some studies found higher psychopathology in trans women, while others found no differences between gender groups. Although many studies were methodologically weak, and included people at different stages of transition within the same cohort of patients, overall this review indicates that trans people attending transgender health-care services appear to have a higher risk of psychiatric morbidity (that improves following treatment), and thus confirms the vulnerability of this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Dhejne
- a Gender Team, Centre for Andrology and Sexual Medicine and Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience , Karolinska Institute and University Hospital , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Roy Van Vlerken
- b Centre of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, VU University Medical Centre , Amsterdam , Netherlands
| | - Gunter Heylens
- c Centre for Sexology and Gender, University Hospital , Ghent , Belgium
| | - Jon Arcelus
- d Nottingham Centre for Gender Dysphoria , Nottingham , UK ;,e Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology , Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, University of Nottingham , Nottingham , UK
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35
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Abstract
Gender dysphoria (GD), a term that denotes persistent discomfort with one's biologic sex or assigned gender, replaced the diagnosis of gender identity disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders in 2013. Subtypes of GD in adults, defined by sexual orientation and age of onset, have been described; these display different developmental trajectories and prognoses. Prevalence studies conclude that fewer than 1 in 10,000 adult natal males and 1 in 30,000 adult natal females experience GD, but such estimates vary widely. GD in adults is associated with an elevated prevalence of comorbid psychopathology, especially mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and suicidality. Causal mechanisms in GD are incompletely understood, but genetic, neurodevelopmental, and psychosocial factors probably all contribute. Treatment of GD in adults, although largely standardized, is likely to evolve in response to the increasing diversity of persons seeking treatment, demands for greater client autonomy, and improved understanding of the benefits and limitations of current treatment modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth J Zucker
- Gender Identity Clinic, Child, Youth, and Family Services, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada;
| | - Anne A Lawrence
- Department of Psychology, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta T1K 3M4, Canada
| | - Baudewijntje P C Kreukels
- Department of Medical Psychology, VU University Medical Center and EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, Amsterdam 1081 HV, The Netherlands
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Costa R, Colizzi M. The effect of cross-sex hormonal treatment on gender dysphoria individuals' mental health: a systematic review. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2016; 12:1953-66. [PMID: 27536118 PMCID: PMC4977075 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s95310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Cross-sex hormonal treatment represents a main aspect of gender dysphoria health care pathway. However, it is still debated whether this intervention translates into a better mental well-being for the individual and which mechanisms may underlie this association. Although sex reassignment surgery has been the subject of extensive investigation, few studies have specifically focused on hormonal treatment in recent years. Here, we systematically review all studies examining the effect of cross-sex hormonal treatment on mental health and well-being in gender dysphoria. Research tends to support the evidence that hormone therapy reduces symptoms of anxiety and dissociation, lowering perceived and social distress and improving quality of life and self-esteem in both male-to-female and female-to-male individuals. Instead, compared to female-to-male individuals, hormone-treated male-to-female individuals seem to benefit more in terms of a reduction in their body uneasiness and personality-related psychopathology and an amelioration of their emotional functioning. Less consistent findings support an association between hormonal treatment and other mental health-related dimensions. In particular, depression, global psychopathology, and psychosocial functioning difficulties appear to reduce only in some studies, while others do not suggest any improvement in these domains. Results from longitudinal studies support more consistently the association between hormonal treatment and improved mental health. On the contrary, a number of cross-sectional studies do not support this evidence. This review provides possible biological explanation vs psychological explanation (direct effect vs indirect effect) for the hormonal treatment-induced better mental well-being. In conclusion, this review indicates that gender dysphoria-related mental distress may benefit from hormonal treatment intervention, suggesting a transient reaction to the nonsatisfaction connected to the incongruent body image rather than a stable psychiatric comorbidity. In this perspective, timely hormonal treatment intervention represents a crucial issue in gender dysphoria individuals' mental health-related outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalia Costa
- Gender Identity Development Service, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, Tavistock Centre
| | - Marco Colizzi
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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37
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Simonsen R, Hald GM, Giraldi A, Kristensen E. Sociodemographic Study of Danish Individuals Diagnosed with Transsexualism. Sex Med 2015; 3:109-17. [PMID: 26185676 PMCID: PMC4498828 DOI: 10.1002/sm2.48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Male-to-female (MtF) and female-to-male (FtM) individuals with transsexualism (International Classification of Diseases-10) may differ in core clinical and sociodemographic variables such as age, sexual orientation, marriage and parenthood, school, educational level, and employment. Assessing and understanding the implication of such differences may be a key to developing appropriate and effective treatment and intervention strategies for this group. However, research in the area remains sparse and is often on small populations, making the generalization of results from current studies on individuals diagnosed with transsexualism difficult. Aims (i) To describe and assess key sociodemographic and treatment-related differences between MtF and FtM individuals in a Danish population of individuals diagnosed with transsexualism; (ii) to assess possible implications of such difference, if any, for clinical treatment initiatives for individuals diagnosed with transsexualism. Methods Follow-up of 108 individuals who had permission to undergo sex reassignment surgery (SRS, meaning castration and genital plastic surgery) over a 30-year period from 1978 to 2008 through the Gender Identity Unit in Copenhagen, Denmark. The individuals were identified through Social Security numbers. Clinical and sociodemographic data from medical records were collected. Results The sex ratio was 1.16:1 (MtF : FtM). Mean age at first referral was 26.9 (standard deviation [SD] 8.8) years for FtM and 30.2 (SD 9.7) for MtF individuals. Compared with MtF, FtM had a significantly lower onset age (before 12 years of age) and lower age when permission for SRS was granted. Further, FtM individuals were significantly more often gynephilic (sexually attracted to females) during research period and less likely to start self-initiated hormonal sex reassignment (SR) (treatment with cross-sex hormones). The MtF and FtM groups did not differ in years of school, educational level, employment, or engagement in marriage and cohabitation. Conclusions As approximately half of MtF started cross-sex hormonal SR without attending a gender unit, future treatment needs to focus on this group of MtF individuals in order to accommodate the medical risks of self-initiated hormonal treatment.Earlier intervention with adolescents appears necessary since three-quarters of FtM individuals before age 12 had problems with their assigned sex. For both MtF and FtM, we found problems in areas of school, education, and employment and recommend further help in these core areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rikke Simonsen
- Psychiatric Center Copenhagen, Sexological Clinic, GIUUC Copenhagen, Denmark ; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen Denmark
| | | | - Annamaria Giraldi
- Psychiatric Center Copenhagen, Sexological Clinic, GIUUC Copenhagen, Denmark ; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Ellids Kristensen
- Psychiatric Center Copenhagen, Sexological Clinic, GIUUC Copenhagen, Denmark ; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen Denmark
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38
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Affective temperaments in subjects with female-to-male gender dysphoria. J Affect Disord 2015; 176:61-4. [PMID: 25702601 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2015.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2014] [Revised: 01/21/2015] [Accepted: 02/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Males and females have different temperaments. In individuals with gender dysphoria (GD) there is marked incongruence between a person׳s expressed/experienced gender and their biological sex. The present study aimed to investigate the most common affective temperaments in individuals with female-to-male (FtM) GD. METHODS We performed a prospective and comparative study investigating affective temperaments in subjects with FtM GD. Eighty subjects with FtM GD and 68 female controls were enrolled. The Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris and San Diego Autoquestionnaire (TEMPS-A) was completed by all participants. RESULTS TEMPS-A scores were significantly higher in subjects with FtM GD for hyperthymic temperament (p≤0.001), whereas depressive (p≤0.001), anxious (p≤0.001), and cyclothymic (p=0.028) temperament scores were significantly higher in female controls. LIMITATIONS The study was limited by the lack of male-to-female subjects and male controls. CONCLUSIONS The results of our study indicate that individuals with FtM GD have significantly higher scores of hyperthymic temperament, measured by TEMPS-A. Biological basis underlying the development of gender identity independent from the biological sex might be related with affective temperaments.
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39
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Colizzi M, Costa R, Todarello O. Dissociative symptoms in individuals with gender dysphoria: is the elevated prevalence real? Psychiatry Res 2015; 226:173-80. [PMID: 25656174 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2014.12.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2014] [Revised: 11/26/2014] [Accepted: 12/31/2014] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated dissociative symptomatology, childhood trauma and body uneasiness in 118 individuals with gender dysphoria, also evaluating dissociative symptoms in follow-up assessments after sex reassignment procedures were performed. We used both clinical interviews (Dissociative Disorders Interview Schedule) and self-reported scales (Dissociative Experiences Scale). A dissociative disorder of any kind seemed to be greatly prevalent (29.6%). Moreover, individuals with gender dysphoria had a high prevalence of lifetime major depressive episode (45.8%), suicide attempts (21.2%) and childhood trauma (45.8%), and all these conditions were more frequent in patients who fulfilled diagnostic criteria for any kind of dissociative disorder. Finally, when treated, patients reported lower dissociative symptoms. Results confirmed previous research about distress in gender dysphoria and improved mental health due to sex reassignment procedures. However, it resulted to be difficult to ascertain dissociation in the context of gender dysphoria, because of the similarities between the two conditions and the possible limited application of clinical instruments which do not provide an adequate differential diagnosis. Therefore, because the body uneasiness is common to dissociative experiences and gender dysphoria, the question is whether dissociation is to be seen not as an expression of pathological dissociative experiences but as a genuine feature of gender dysphoria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Colizzi
- Department of Medical Basic Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari, BA 70124, Italy.
| | - Rosalia Costa
- Department of Medical Basic Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari, BA 70124, Italy
| | - Orlando Todarello
- Department of Medical Basic Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari, BA 70124, Italy
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40
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Fabris B, Bernardi S, Trombetta C. Cross-sex hormone therapy for gender dysphoria. J Endocrinol Invest 2015; 38:269-82. [PMID: 25403429 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-014-0186-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2014] [Accepted: 10/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Gender identity is the sense one has of being male or female. Gender dysphoria (GD) refers to the distress caused by the incongruence between gender identity and biological sex in gender-nonconforming individuals. Cross-sex hormone therapy (CHT) aims at easing GD, improving well-being, and quality of life of gender-nonconforming individuals. This can be achieved by inducing and maintaining the desired-sex characteristics in accordance with the specific aspirations and expectations of each individual. Nevertheless, CHT can be associated with potentially serious long-term complications. METHODS Here, we review when, how, and how long to prescribe CHT to adult transsexuals as well as what to expect and monitor once it has been initiated. RESULTS In recent years, transsexualism has become more and more recognized and depathologized. To manage GD, National and International Standards of Care have been established. Nevertheless, the needs of transgender patients can still be ignored or dismissed. Moreover, some questions remain unanswered because of the lack of specific retrospective or prospective studies on CHT. CONCLUSION Education and culturally sensitive training must be supplied to healthcare professionals to overcome the existing issues on GD management and change the perspectives of transsexual people.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Fabris
- Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy.
| | - S Bernardi
- Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - C Trombetta
- Division of Urology, Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
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41
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Miyajima E, Taira N, Koda M, Kondo T. Differences in personality traits between male-to-female and female-to-male gender identity disorder subjects. Psychiatry Res 2014; 220:496-9. [PMID: 25130781 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2014.07.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2013] [Revised: 07/17/2014] [Accepted: 07/27/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate differences in personality traits among male-to-female (MtF), female-to-male (FtM) gender identity disorder (GID) subjects and non-transsexual male (M) and female (F) controls. Subjects were 72 MtF and 187 FtM GID subjects without psychiatric comorbidities together with 184 male and 159 female non-transsexual controls. Personality traits were assessed using a short version of the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI-125). Group comparisons were made by two-way ANOVA. Statistical significances were observed as follows: 1) lower novelty seeking in FtM than in M or MtF, 2) higher reward dependence in FtM than in M, 3) higher cooperativeness in FtM than in M or MtF, 4) the highest self-transcendence in MtF among all the groups. The highest self-transcendence in MtF subjects may reflect their vulnerable identity and constrained adaptation to society as the minority. Nevertheless, higher reward dependence and cooperativeness in FtM subjects can be related to more determined motivation for the treatments of GID and might promise better social functioning and adjustment than MtF subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eiichi Miyajima
- Department of Psychiatry, Clinic Omoromachi, Naha, Okinawa, Japan; Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa, Japan.
| | - Naoki Taira
- Department of Psychiatry, Amekudai Hospital, Naha, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Munenaga Koda
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Kondo
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa, Japan
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42
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Giami A, Beaubatie E. Gender identification and sex reassignment surgery in the trans population: a survey study in France. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2014; 43:1491-1501. [PMID: 25231821 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-014-0382-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2012] [Revised: 07/29/2014] [Accepted: 07/29/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Drawing from controversies between medical, legal, and associative actors about the obligation of sex reassignment surgeries (SRS) for people who intend to change their civil status, this article discusses the role that medical procedures, and particularly SRS, play in contemporary gender identifications and transition pathways in France. In 2010, the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research conducted a national survey in order to study the sociodemographic characteristics, access to medical, and psychological care, and state of health among trans individuals. After a long period of ethnographic work during which a partnership was established with trans actors to map the social, medical, and political landscape of trans communities, a questionnaire was developed and distributed between July and October 2010 in collaboration with most of the trans organizations and public and private health professionals operating in France. Overall, 381 self-identified trans individuals returned the anonymous self-administered questionnaire. The results highlighted the heterogeneity of the trans population, whose definition cannot be reduced to a group of individuals undergoing standardized hormonal treatments and SRS. Two central indicators, sex assigned at birth and gender self-identification, enabled us to describe and analyze different medical and legal pathways with a particular focus on SRS, which is often compulsory for a change of civil status in France. Although SRS remains an important factor in an individual's subjective evaluation of the success of the transition pathway, its practice varies depending on one's sex assigned at birth and gender identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alain Giami
- Inserm, CESP Centre de Recherche en Epidémiologie et Santé des Populations, U1018 Equipe Genre, Santé Sexuelle et Reproductive, 94276, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France,
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43
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Ciocca G, Limoncin E, Cellerino A, Fisher AD, Gravina GL, Carosa E, Mollaioli D, Valenzano DR, Mennucci A, Bandini E, Di Stasi SM, Maggi M, Lenzi A, Jannini EA. Gender Identity Rather Than Sexual Orientation Impacts on Facial Preferences. J Sex Med 2014; 11:2500-7. [DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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44
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Petricevic L, Kaufmann U, Domig KJ, Kraler M, Marschalek J, Kneifel W, Kiss H. Rectal Lactobacillus species and their influence on the vaginal microflora: a model of male-to-female transsexual women. J Sex Med 2014; 11:2738-43. [PMID: 25146566 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Based on Lactobacillus species co-colonizing the vagina and rectum, it has been hypothesized that the rectum may be an important reservoir for vaginal colonization by lactobacilli. There are no data on this issue in male-to-female transsexual women. AIM We undertook this observational study to characterize the Lactobacillus species present in the neovagina and rectum of male-to-female transsexual women and to determine the degree of neovaginal-rectal co-colonization in order to gain a better understanding of the potential role of the gut as a reservoir for genital lactobacilli. METHODS Sixty-one male-to-female transsexual women with penile skin lined neovagina without clinical signs of infection were recruited on an ongoing basis from among male-to-female transsexual outpatients. Neovaginal and rectal smears were taken for molecular Lactobacillus species profiling by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR-DGGE). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Matching Lactobacillus species between neovagina and rectum. RESULTS Forty-three of the 61 male-to-female transsexual women (70.5%) simultaneously harbored the same lactobacilli in both the neovagina and rectum. We found 276 neovaginal and 258 rectal DGGE bands representing 11 Lactobacillus species, with 201 matches of the same Lactobacillus species in neovagina and rectum. 37 of the 61 women (61%) had two or more matching Lactobacillus species. CONCLUSION These data support the hypothesis that the rectum may play an important role as source of Lactobacillus species that colonies neovagina of male-to-female transsexual women. In view of the specific anatomical circumstances of the study population, these findings may be extended to the general population of women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ljubomir Petricevic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Dargie E, Blair KL, Pukall CF, Coyle SM. Somewhere under the rainbow: Exploring the identities and experiences of trans persons. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF HUMAN SEXUALITY 2014. [DOI: 10.3138/cjhs.2378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The literature on transgender/transsexual-spectrum persons is limited. Most studies are based on the assumption that trans persons are best understood within rigid and binary definitions of gender and sexuality and tend to focus on diagnostics, medical management and risk factors. Researchers and clinicians may also assume that people who challenge cultural norms of gender and sexuality can be grouped together. Such assumptions about the specific experiences of trans persons can be harmfully incorrect. The goals of the present study were to explore the gender and sexual identities of trans persons, to investigate group differences, and to examine factors that predict better psychological and physical well-being. Participants took part in an online study and provided information about their gender and sexual identity, social support, relationship quality, and mental/physical health. Results depicted diverse gender identities and sexual orientations among trans persons and emphasized that while many challenges faced by sexual and gender minorities are similar, trans persons report unique mental and physical health outcomes. Also, greater social support and relationship quality predicted mental, but not physical, health among trans persons. These results highlight the importance of acknowledging the complexity of trans identities and the key role of social and personal support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Dargie
- Department of Psychology, Queen's University, Kingston, ON
| | - Karen L. Blair
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
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Fisher AD, Ristori J, Bandini E, Giordano S, Mosconi M, Jannini EA, Greggio NA, Godano A, Manieri C, Meriggiola C, Ricca V, Dettore D, Maggi M. Medical treatment in gender dysphoric adolescents endorsed by SIAMS-SIE-SIEDP-ONIG. J Endocrinol Invest 2014; 37:675-87. [PMID: 24862877 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-014-0077-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2014] [Accepted: 03/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite international guidelines being available, not all gender clinics are able to face gender dysphoric (GD) youth population needs specifically. This is particularly true in Italy. Centers offering specialized support are relatively few and a commonly accepted Italian approach to GD youth has still not been defined. The aim of the present Position Statement is to develop and adhere to Italian guidelines for treatment of GD adolescents, in line with the "Dutch Approach", the Endocrine Society (ES), and the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) guidelines. METHODS An in-depth brainstorming on the application of International guidelines in the Italian context was performed by several dedicated professionals. RESULTS A staged approach, combining psychological support as well as medical intervention is suggested. In the first phase, individuals requesting medical help will undergo a psycho-diagnostic procedure to assess GD; for eligible adolescents, pubertal suppression should be made available (extended diagnostic phase). Finally, from the age of 16 years, cross-sex hormonal therapy can be added, and from the age of 18 years, surgical sex reassignment can eventually be performed. CONCLUSIONS The current inadequacy of Italian services offering specialized support for GD youth may lead to negative consequences. Omitting or delaying treatment is not a neutral option. In fact, some GD adolescents may develop psychiatric problems, suicidality, and social marginalization. With access to specialized GD services, emotional problems, as well as self-harming behavior, may decrease and general functioning may significantly improve. In particular, puberty suppression seems to be beneficial for GD adolescents by relieving their acute suffering and distress and thus improving their quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- A D Fisher
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy,
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Ernsting A, Knoll N, Schneider M, Schwarzer R. The enabling effect of social support on vaccination uptake via self-efficacy and planning. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2014; 20:239-46. [PMID: 24862090 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2014.920957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE In the context of worksite influenza vaccination programmes, social support, action planning and perceived self-efficacy were examined as predictors of participation. Mechanisms among these predictors were analysed by applying the enabling effect model to vaccination. Moreover, this model was extended by the inclusion of planning. METHODS In a large German company, a survey on influenza vaccination was launched with 200 employees taking part in the five-month follow-up. Using regression procedures, a sequential mediation model was examined, leading from social support via self-efficacy and planning to vaccination behaviour. RESULTS The three predictors jointly accounted for 47% of the vaccination participation variance. The enabling effect model was confirmed, highlighting how social support may promote self-efficacy beliefs. Further analysis yielded the extended model, revealing planning as a mediator between self-efficacy and subsequent behaviour while the indirect path from social support via self-efficacy to behaviour remained. CONCLUSIONS Multiple step mediation analysis underscored the relevance of social support and self-efficacy. It also revealed planning as a proximal factor that may facilitate participation in a worksite influenza vaccination programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Ernsting
- a Department of Health Psychology , Freie Universität Berlin , Berlin , Germany
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Colizzi M, Costa R, Todarello O. Transsexual patients' psychiatric comorbidity and positive effect of cross-sex hormonal treatment on mental health: results from a longitudinal study. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2014; 39:65-73. [PMID: 24275005 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2013.09.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2013] [Revised: 09/11/2013] [Accepted: 09/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to evaluate the presence of psychiatric diseases/symptoms in transsexual patients and to compare psychiatric distress related to the hormonal intervention in a one year follow-up assessment. We investigated 118 patients before starting the hormonal therapy and after about 12 months. We used the SCID-I to determine major mental disorders and functional impairment. We used the Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) for evaluating self-reported anxiety and depression. We used the Symptom Checklist 90-R (SCL-90-R) for assessing self-reported global psychological symptoms. Seventeen patients (14%) had a DSM-IV-TR axis I psychiatric comorbidity. At enrollment the mean SAS score was above the normal range. The mean SDS and SCL-90-R scores were on the normal range except for SCL-90-R anxiety subscale. When treated, patients reported lower SAS, SDS and SCL-90-R scores, with statistically significant differences. Psychiatric distress and functional impairment were present in a significantly higher percentage of patients before starting the hormonal treatment than after 12 months (50% vs. 17% for anxiety; 42% vs. 23% for depression; 24% vs. 11% for psychological symptoms; 23% vs. 10% for functional impairment). The results revealed that the majority of transsexual patients have no psychiatric comorbidity, suggesting that transsexualism is not necessarily associated with severe comorbid psychiatric findings. The condition, however, seemed to be associated with subthreshold anxiety/depression, psychological symptoms and functional impairment. Moreover, treated patients reported less psychiatric distress. Therefore, hormonal treatment seemed to have a positive effect on transsexual patients' mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Colizzi
- Department of Medical Basic Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari, Bari 70124, Italy.
| | - Rosalia Costa
- Department of Medical Basic Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari, Bari 70124, Italy
| | - Orlando Todarello
- Department of Medical Basic Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari, Bari 70124, Italy
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