Endocrine Care of Transpeople Part I: A Review of Cross-Sex Hormonal Treatments, Outcomes, and Adverse Effects in Transmen

The 2015 review article examines the use of cross-sex hormonal therapy (CHT) in transmen, focusing on the outcomes and adverse effects. It reports that testosterone therapy is generally safe for inducing masculinization in adult transmen and can be started after puberty suppression in adolescents. The review found that testosterone therapy leads to virilizing effects and may cause male-pattern baldness in 38% of transmen after 13 years. Fertility loss due to hormone treatment is reversible, and sexual function often improves post-treatment. Cardiovascular risks are a concern, but no increased risk was observed with proper treatment. The review also notes that mortality rates are similar to the general population and cancer risks are not significantly elevated. Regular health monitoring is essential, especially for hematocrit levels and for those who retain internal genitalia. The review concludes that testosterone therapy can be safely continued in elderly transmen with proper monitoring and dose adjustments.