Transgender Health And The Impact Of Aging And Menopause
April 2023
in “
Climacteric
”
TLDR Gender-affirming hormone therapy affects health risks and requires careful management, especially as transgender individuals age.
The narrative review examines the effects of gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) on transgender health, particularly in the context of aging and menopause. It identifies increased risks of venous thromboembolism, myocardial infarction, stroke, and osteoporosis for those on feminizing hormones, while those on masculinizing hormones face risks like polycythemia and potential myocardial infarction. The review stresses the importance of managing cardiovascular risks and optimizing bone health, noting the lack of specific data for older transgender individuals. A shared decision-making approach is recommended to balance individual goals and minimize adverse effects. Additionally, the review highlights the need for culturally sensitive healthcare and acknowledges significant health disparities faced by the transgender community.