Care of the Transgender Patient: The Role of the Gynecologist
January 2014
in “
American journal of obstetrics and gynecology
”
hormonal therapy gender dysphoria sex reassignment surgery psychiatric evaluation real-life experience medical interventions side effects continuous medical oversight unsupervised hormone use adverse effects metabolic changes hormone therapy transition surgery mental health evaluation real-life test medical treatments negative effects ongoing medical supervision unmonitored hormone use negative reactions metabolic alterations
TLDR Gynecologists should provide comprehensive care for transgender patients, including mental health evaluation, hormone therapy, and surgical options, while monitoring for side effects and ensuring patient safety.
The 2014 document outlines the responsibilities of gynecologists in caring for transgender patients, including the diagnosis of gender dysphoria, the administration of hormonal therapy, and the provision of surgical options for sex reassignment. It stresses the necessity of psychiatric evaluation and a period of real-life experience before medical interventions. The document acknowledges the positive outcomes of hormonal therapy, such as improved quality of life and alleviation of gender dysphoria, but also notes the lack of comprehensive studies on the long-term efficacy and safety of these treatments. Additionally, it discusses the potential side effects and the critical need for continuous medical oversight. Surgical procedures for transitioning are described, with high patient satisfaction rates reported post-treatment. The document also warns against the dangers of unsupervised hormone use and underscores the importance of monitoring for adverse effects and metabolic changes during hormone therapy.
