TLDR The guidelines recommend informed consent for gender-affirming treatments and stress the importance of personalized, culturally sensitive care for transgender individuals.
The 2012 document provided comprehensive guidelines for the health care of transsexual, transgender, and gender-nonconforming individuals, focusing on the importance of informed consent, the medical necessity of gender-affirming treatments such as hormone therapy and surgeries, and the role of mental health professionals. It emphasized that gender nonconformity is not a disorder, distinguished between gender nonconformity and gender dysphoria, and noted that treatments are critical for those experiencing distress due to gender dysphoria. The document discussed the need for a flexible, culturally sensitive approach to care, the lack of comprehensive epidemiological data, and the evolution of personalized therapeutic approaches. It also addressed the health risks associated with hormone therapy, the importance of psychosocial support, and the need for specialized training for health professionals. Outcome studies cited in the document generally showed positive psychosocial outcomes for patients after sex reassignment surgery and hormone therapy, but also highlighted the necessity for further research, particularly regarding long-term outcomes and hormone therapy without surgery.
855 citations,
June 2009 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism” The guideline recommends mental health involvement in diagnosing gender identity disorder and outlines hormone and surgical treatment protocols, emphasizing safety, informed consent, and long-term monitoring.
88 citations,
September 2003 in “Clinical endocrinology” Hormone treatment for transsexual individuals is effective but carries risks like thromboembolic events and mood changes, with most side effects being minor and reversible.
47 citations,
February 2019 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” LGBT individuals have unique skin health needs, including higher STD risks and side effects from gender-affirming treatments, requiring dermatologists to offer knowledgeable and culturally competent care.
28 citations,
October 2018 in “Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology” Testosterone therapy seems safe and effective for transgender men with proper care, but more long-term research is needed.
21 citations,
March 2019 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” The review highlights the need for more research on transgender dermatology, the role of dermatologists in gender affirmation, and the effects of hormone therapy on skin and hair.
5 citations,
March 2019 in “Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics of North America” The document concludes that gender-affirming treatments are essential for transgender individuals and outlines safe hormone therapy practices.
September 2023 in “Fides et Ratio” The safety and effectiveness of gender-affirming treatments for children are uncertain, with potential long-term risks like infertility.
