Transgender or transsexual is a term that is used for people who identify as having a different gender than they were assigned at birth. There are several kinds of transgender, including male, female and gender-fluid people. Regardless of how you choose to identify, there are a few things to understand.
Transsexual men
Transsexual men may experience specific body dysphoria and psychosocial needs. They may also aspire to hormone replacement therapy, and they may be undergoing surgeries to achieve their transition.
The sex reassignment surgery may be a medical intervention that permanently changes their reproductive potential. However, many transsexual men do not undergo this type of medical procedure.
There are few studies that examine fertility needs of transgender men. This review aims to analyze the scientific literature relating to the reproductive needs of transsexual men. It should help researchers and health providers in ensuring that they are providing optimal care for transsexual men.
A review of the literature indicates that there are gaps in scientific production in this area. Some studies are limited in size, while others lack enough data to provide meaningful conclusions.
To identify the most important studies, articles in English, Spanish, and other languages were reviewed and analyzed. Databases used included Medline, CINAHL, SCOPUS, and WoS. The selected studies were grouped into two thematic categories.
Gender reassignment surgery
Trans men and gender reassignment surgery is a process by which a person changes their physical characteristics to suit their male or female identity. This treatment can help increase self-esteem and improve quality of life. The process requires a combination of counseling and hormone therapy.
Males who want to transition to women often change their hair style and use female pronouns, but they may also undergo other procedures. These include a hysterectomy and a genital reconstruction.
Genital gender confirming surgery has been shown to decrease the symptoms of gender dysphoria. During the procedure, a transgender patient’s penis is either removed or made from another tissue. In some cases, the prostate gland is removed.
Male gender reassignment surgery is essentially the last step in a physical transition for many trans men. It can increase self-esteem and confidence.
Before going under the knife, a transman should work with a healthcare provider who can explain the risks and benefits of all available surgeries. Most medical insurance providers cover some of the costs of gender affirming surgery. However, the limitations will vary by state.
Gender dysphoria
Gender dysphoria is a condition in which a person is incongruent between their genders. This can be a mental health issue, or it can result in medical interventions. Fortunately, gender reassignment surgery is an option for those with this condition.
To get started, you might want to see a physician who has experience treating trans men. This is important because your surgeon will need to evaluate your body before making any decisions. You might also need to have a letter of support from a mental health professional.
The most common surgeries performed on trans men include phalloplasty and metoidoplasty. Some people will opt for a more complex procedure such as an Adam’s apple enhancement or a jaw reshaping.
However, you don’t have to undergo surgery to experience the benefits. You can learn to live authentically and enjoy the benefits of being trans. One of the best ways to do this is to make sure you have a supportive community and family.
Identifying as transmasculine
Transmasculine and non-binary adults have unique reproductive health challenges, as well as unique barriers to accessing sexual and reproductive health care. In this study, we examined the health care strategies used by transmasculine and non-binary adults to address these challenges. We conducted a survey of 25 transmasculine adults in a metropolitan area of Boston. The sample was significantly racially diverse, with a greater number of White individuals than expected.
The majority of the participants were assigned male at birth and chose to identify as transmasculine. Most tended to avoid using the term breasts, and most preferred using masculine and neutral pronouns. However, some individuals spoke about their breasts when they were young.
The study found that many transmasculine and non-binary individuals face discrimination and racism, as well as barriers to sexual and reproductive health care. Specifically, transmasculine young adults of color faced several barriers related to sexual orientation and heterosexism. Specifically, they reported having difficulty accessing affirming providers and receiving person-centered care. This can be a significant barrier to maintaining good health and accessing health care.