[Adolescents with Gender Incongruence - Special Case Constellations]. / Jugendliche mit Geschlechtsinkongruenz ­ besondere Fallkonstellationen.

Adolescents with Gender Incongruence - Special Case Constellations Abstract: Adolescents with gender incongruence and gender identity variants have a high rate of accompanying mental disorders, such as depression, autism spectrum disorders, or eating disorders. Yet, the interaction between gender incongruence, gender dysphoric distress, and accompanying mental disorders is complex and varies considerably from case to case. We need an individualized approach and careful professional assessment to help those affected and their guardians make informed decisions regarding possible treatment steps in complex case constellations. Maintaining careful process support and planning of the treatment steps can help to resolve blocked development processes in adolescents with gender incongruence and accompanying psychological disorders or in young people with unstable gender identity development.

Co-occurring autism, ADHD, and gender dysphoria in children, adolescents, and young adults with eating disorders: an examination of pre- vs. post-COVID pandemic outbreak trends with real-time electronic health record data.

Background: Incidence rates of autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and gender dysphoria (GD) are rising not only in the general population, but particularly among children, adolescents, and young adults with eating disorders (EDs). While ED rates have risen during the COVID pandemic, trends in co-occurring autism, ADHD, and GD have yet to be investigated in detail or at scale by way of large electronic medical record data. Objectives: To investigate trends in rates of co-occurring autism, ADHD, and GD among children, adolescents, and young adults with EDs in years prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We utilized a de-identified multinational electronic health records database (TriNetX) with 48,558 individuals aged 5-26 diagnosed with eating disorders (EDs) at least twice between 2017 and 2022. The primary predictor variable differentiated between the years of each person's index (first) ED diagnosis (2017-2019 vs. 2020-2022). The primary outcome variable was the rate of new co-occurring psychiatric diagnoses of autism, ADHD, and GD in the year following each patient's first ED diagnosis. We applied propensity score-matched multivariable logistic regressions to compare primary outcomes between 2017-2019 and 2020-2022. Results: Our analysis included 17,445 individuals diagnosed with EDs in 2017-2019 (8% autism, 13.5% ADHD, 1.9% GD) and 31,113 diagnosed with EDs in 2020-2022 (8% autism, 14.6% ADHD, 3.2% GD). After 1:1 propensity score matching, 17,202 individuals from the 2017-2019 cohort were matched to peers mirroring the 2020-2022 cohort. Those diagnosed in 2020-2022 showed a 19% (aOR[95%CI]=1.19[1.07-1.33]), 25% (aOR=1.25[1.04-1.49]), and 36% (aOR=1.36[1.07-1.74]) increase in odds for autism, ADHD, and GD diagnoses, respectively, within the 365 days after the index EDs diagnosis, compared to the 2017-2019 cohort. Discussion: Rates of autism, ADHD, and GD are significantly higher in individuals with ED in the post-pandemic 2020-2022 cohort in comparison to the pre-pandemic 2017-2019 cohort, even after controlling for baseline levels of co-occurring psychiatric diagnoses. Such findings reveal a critical gap in our current understanding of the totality of ways in which COVID-19 may have impacted the onset and clinical course of EDs, autism, ADHD, and GD among children, adolescents, and young adults.

Gender-affirming hormone treatment modalities for transfemale & non-binary transfeminine individuals: A UK perspective.

Gender incongruence and the number of people seeking gender affirming hormone treatment has dramatically risen in the last two decades. In the UK, transgender women and non-binary transfeminine individuals are typically treated with simultaneous suppression of endogenous testosterone production through anti-androgens and exogenous oestradiol replacement. Oestrogen replacement comes in different forms and is primarily given as transdermal (gel or patch) or oral preparations in the UK. Decisions around preparation choice are based on a combination of individual preference and/or mitigating the chance of complications based on individual risk profiles. Time frames to achieve female physical changes are largely predictable and managing expectations of individuals prior to commencing treatment is highly important. Common complications include venous thromboembolism, liver dysfunction and effects on fertility, thus individuals should be thoroughly counselled prior to commencing treatment. This article provides an overview of the management and considerations of gender-affirming hormone treatment in transgender women and non-binary transfeminine individuals.

Higher Rates of Certain Autoimmune Diseases in Transgender and Gender Diverse Youth.

Purpose: The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of certain autoimmune diseases in transgender and gender diverse (TGD) youth. Methods: A multicenter, retrospective analysis was conducted from January 2013 to January 2019 of youth ≤26 years of age with concurrent diagnoses of gender dysphoria (GD) and at least one of the studied autoimmune diseases. Prevalence rates were calculated and compared to previously reported rates. Statistical significance was determined using second generation p-values as pooled estimates of prevalence rates across study sites compared to a range of rates reported in the literature. Results: During the study period, 128 of 3812 (3.4%) youth evaluated for GD had a concurrent diagnosis of at least one of the studied autoimmune diseases. Three autoimmune diseases had prevalence rates significantly higher than those previously documented in the literature (second generation p-value=0.000): type 1 diabetes mellitus (112.8/10,000, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 83.8-151.8), systemic lupus erythematosus (13.1/10,000, 95% CI: 5.5-31.5), and Graves' disease (12.3/10,000, 95% CI: 4.0-38.4). Conclusion: There is an increased prevalence of certain autoimmune diseases in youth who identify as TGD presenting for subspecialty care. Limitations such as retrospective study design, selection bias, and reliance on electronic medical records make it difficult to draw wide-reaching conclusions about these findings. This study highlights the need for more research to delineate the impacts of unrecognized or untreated GD on autoimmune disease development and control.

Transformation: From (Trans-)Gender Roles to Profiles.

Combining a philosophical approach with empirical psychology, this essay investigates the relationship between "profilicity," the formation of identity in orientation to profiles, and gender identity. We discuss empirical research that indicates a significant difference between transgender identity in traditional (collectivist) and modern (individualist) societies. We suggest that this difference is due to a shift in the formation of gender identity away from gender roles and toward gender profiles. To substantiate this claim, we first outline a basic theoretical terminology of identity and gender. Then, we critically analyze the representation of gender, including transgender, in contemporary popular culture. Finally-with a descriptive, but not therapeutic intention-we discuss several case studies of identity formation of transgender people. We conclude that theoretical problems arising from historical shifts in gender identity formation, including transgender identity formation, are best conceptualized in terms of profilicity rather than in the still prevailing semantics of authenticity.

Discontinuing hormonal gender reassignment: a nationwide register study.

BACKGROUND: With increasing numbers of people seeking medical gender reassignment, the scientific community has become increasingly aware of the issue of detransitioning from social, hormonal or even surgical gender reassignment (GR). This study aimed to assess the proportion of patients who discontinued their established hormonal gender transition and the risk factors for discontinuation. METHODS: A nationwide register-based follow-up was conducted. Data were analysed via cross-tabulations with chi-square statistics and t tests/ANOVAs. Multivariate analyses were performed via Cox regression, which accounts for differences in follow-up times. RESULTS: Of the 1,359 subjects who had undergone hormonal GR in Finland from 1996 to 2019, 7.9% discontinued their established hormonal treatment during an average follow-up of 8.5 years. The risk for discontinuing hormonal GR was greater among later cohorts. The hazard ratio was 2.7 (95% confidence interval 1.1-6.1) among those who had accessed gender identity services from 2013 to 2019 compared with those who had come to contact from 1996 to 2005. Discontinuing also appeared to be emerging earlier among those who had entered the process in later years. CONCLUSIONS: The risk of discontinuing established medical GR has increased alongside the increase in the number of patients seeking and proceeding to medical GR. The threshold to initiate medical GR may have lowered, resulting in a greater risk of unbalanced treatment decisions. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER (TRN): Not applicable (the paper does not present a clinical trial).

A Pilot Survey of Indian Stakeholders: Parents, Doctors, and Grown-Up Patients of Disorders of Sexual Differentiation on Management Decisions and Associated Gender Dysphoria.

Background and Aims: Of late, there are many legal representations from select quarters to halt all medical interventions in children with differences of sex development (DSD). In this survey on management decisions in DSD, we distil the views of Indian stakeholders: parents, physicians, and grown-up patients with DSD on their management decisions to identify decisional satisfaction or gender dysphoria. Methods: The survey domains included the patient demographics, final diagnosis, decision on the sex of rearing, surgical interventions, opinion of the stakeholders on the preferred age of sex assignment, final sex of rearing, and agreement/disagreement about sex assignment (gender dysphoria). Results: A total of 106 responses were recorded (66% parents, 34% grown-up patients aged 12-50 years). Among parents, 65/70 (95%) preferred the sex to be assigned soon after birth. All grown-up patients preferred sex to be assigned soon after birth. Regarding decisions on surgery, 74% of physicians and 75% of the grown-up patients felt parents should be allowed to decide interventions. Among Indian parents, 90% felt they should have the right to decide surgery in the best interest of their child for a safe social upbringing. Overall, gender dysphoria among Indian DSD patients was <1% (1/103, 0.97%). Conclusions: The predominant preference and opinion of major Indian stakeholders (physicians, parents, and grown-up DSD patients) support the existing approach toward DSD management, including early sex assignment and necessary medical intervention.

Military Family Physicians' Readiness to Provide Gender-Affirming Care: A Serial Cross-Sectional Study.

PURPOSE: Family physicians are increasingly more likely to encounter transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) patients requesting gender-affirming care. Given the significant health inequities faced by the TGD community, this study aimed to assess changes in military-affiliated clinicians' perspectives toward gender-affirming care over time. METHODS: Using a serial cross-sectional survey design of physicians at the 2016 and 2023 Uniformed Services Academy of Family Physicians conferences, we studied participants' perception of, comfort with, and education on gender-affirming care using Fisher's Exact tests and logistic regression. RESULTS: Response rates were 68% (n = 180) and 69% (n = 386) in 2016 and 2023, respectively. Compared to 2016, clinicians in 2023 were significantly more likely to report receiving relevant education during training, providing care to >1 patient with gender dysphoria, and being able to provide nonjudgmental care. In 2023, 26% reported an unwillingness to prescribe gender-affirming hormones (GAH) to adults due to ethical concerns. In univariable analysis, female-identifying participants were more likely to report willingness to prescribe GAH (OR = 2.6, 95%CI = 1.7-4.1) than male-identifying participants. Willingness to prescribe was also associated with ≥4 h of education (OR = 2.2, 95%CI = 1.1-4.2) compared to those with fewer than 4 h, and those who reported the ability to provide nonjudgmental care compared to those who were neutral (OR = 0.09, 95%CI = 0.04-0.2) or disagreed (OR = 0.11, 95%CI = 0.03-0.39). Female-identifying clinicians were more likely to agree additional training would benefit their practice (OR = 5.3, 95%CI = 3.3-8.5). CONCLUSIONS: Although military-affiliated family physicians endorsed more experience with and willingness to provide nonjudgmental gender-affirming care in 2023 than 2016, profound gaps in patient experience may remain based on the assigned clinician. Additional training opportunities should be available, and clinicians unable to provide gender-affirming care should ensure timely referrals. Future research should explore trends across clinical specialties.

Urinary Tract Infection in a Transgender Male: A Primary Care Approach.

Navigating health care as a transgender adolescent presents a multitude of unique challenges that warrant careful consideration. Transgender individuals often encounter barriers such as a lack of knowledgeable health care providers, limited access to gender-affirming care, and concerns about confidentiality, safety, and acceptance. This case report of a transgender male with a history of a urinary tract infection examines the issues facing transgender adolescents in their pursuit of appropriate and sensitive health care and the need for normalizing gender-affirming medical care.

Evaluation of the quality of life among transgender men before and after gender reassignment surgery: a survey from Iran.

BACKGROUND: Gender dysphoria, characterized by a misalignment between one's gender identity and assigned sex, propels individuals towards medical interventions like gender reassignment surgery (GRS) to harmonize their bodies with their gender. This process aims to enhance overall quality of life (QoL), functioning, and body image. Recognizing the importance of cultivating a positive body image for transgender individuals navigating societal norms, this narrative highlights the ongoing debate surrounding QoL post-GRS. In response, our study is outlined, aiming to scrutinize QoL and self-image among transgender men post-GRS, offering valuable insights into societal perceptions and psychological well-being in this context. METHOD: This cross-sectional survey focused on transgender men aged 15 to 35 who underwent gender reassignment surgery (GRS) in 2018-2022 in Shiraz, Iran. Participants, after passing psychiatric evaluations, completed World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-100) questionnaires pre- and at least one-year post-surgery. The scores of the Brief-WHOQOL questionnaire were evaluated in four domains of physical health, psychological health, social relationships, and environmental health. RESULTS: A total of 60 individual who underwent GRS completed our questionnaire. The average age of the patients was 24.1 ± 3.8 years. Following GRS, the most increase was observed in the psychological factor (by 25.6%). The increase in score was statistically significant in all subgroups (P < 0.001) after operation. Urban living location had a significant association with higher increase in physical health (P < 0.010), psychological health (P = 0.005), and environmental health (P = 0.012) after GRS. In regards to physical health, the low socioeconomic group had a significantly less physical score improvement in QoL compared to the moderate group (P = 0.024) following GRS. In regards to environmental health, the high socioeconomic groups had significantly higher improvement in QoL compared to the low (P = 0.006) and moderate (P < 0.001) group after operation. CONCLUSION: The results demonstrate that GRS brings about improvements across all aspects of QoL. However, this enhancement is less pronounced among patients hailing from low socioeconomic backgrounds and rural areas.

Tailoring Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Gender-Expansive Journeys.

This article introduces an innovative adaptation of interpersonal psychotherapy tailored to the needs of individuals identifying as gender diverse and navigating the complexities of gender transition. The few available therapeutic models designed for this population are reviewed, and the novel intervention, grounded in clinical insights and empirical research, is presented. Key components of this adaptation include expanding the interpersonal inventory with targeted processing questions and developing a disclosure timeline-a structured tool designed to guide patients through gender transition-while bolstering social support, reducing distress, and improving interpersonal effectiveness. An illustrative case vignette is included to elucidate the practical applications of this approach and to underscore essential therapeutic considerations.

Health care needs and barriers to care among the transgender population: a study from western Rajasthan.

BACKGROUND: Transgender people comprise an estimated 0.3-0.5% (25 million) of the global population. The public health agenda focuses on understanding and improving the health and well-being of gender minorities. Transgender (TG) persons often have complex healthcare needs and suffer significant health disparities in multiple arenas. The international literature suggests that this community is at a higher risk of depression, and other mental health problems, including HIV. Many transgender people experience gender dysphoria and seek specific medical needs such as sex reassignment surgeries, implants, hormonal therapies, etc., but are unable to access these services due to financial or social reasons. The objective of this study was to assess the healthcare needs and associated barriers experienced by transgender people in Western Rajasthan. METHODOLOGY: A qualitative study was carried out in which multilevel stakeholder interviews were conducted using interview and focus group discussion guides. Data was analyzed using the qualitative thematic analysis technique. RESULTS: Findings reveal that transgender people have expressed their need to access health services for general health needs, including but not limited to mental health, non-communicable diseases, and infectious diseases. Barriers to healthcare services were identified on 3 levels: health system, social and personal. Health system barriers include policy, accessibility, affordability, and acceptability issues. Social factors such as inadequate housing, education, and job opportunities also play an important role in affecting the individual's health-seeking behavior. The knowledge of healthcare providers in this context was also limited in context of health insurance schemes, package of services available for transgenders and the importance of gender sensitive healthcare. CONCLUSION: Transgender people expressed the need for mental health services, programs targeting nutritional improvement, gender-affirmation procedures besides regular screening of non-communicable diseases as operational for males and females. Levels of barriers have been identified at various levels ranging from absence of targeted policies to individual behavior.

Implications of the Cass Review for health policy governing gender medicine for Australian minors.

OBJECTIVE: To summarize the key recommendations of England's independent inquiry into gender identity services for children and young people (the Cass Review) and to evaluate their relevance to Australian health policy. CONCLUSIONS: The Cass Review's findings and recommendations have clear applicability to Australian health policy. As a matter of priority, Australian health authorities need to seriously engage with the Cass Review's findings and recommendations. To not do so will put the health and well-being of vulnerable children and young people at risk.

Gender dysphoria in adolescence: examining the rapid-onset hypothesis.

The sharp rise in the number of predominantly natal female adolescents experiencing gender dysphoria and seeking treatment in specialized clinics has sparked a contentious and polarized debate among both the scientific community and the public sphere. Few explanations have been offered for these recent developments. One proposal that has generated considerable attention is the notion of "rapid-onset" gender dysphoria, which is assumed to apply to a subset of adolescents and young adults. First introduced by Lisa Littman in a 2018 study of parental reports, it describes a subset of youth, primarily natal females, with no childhood indicators of gender dysphoria but with a sudden emergence of gender dysphoria symptoms during puberty or after its completion. For them, identifying as transgender is assumed to serve as a maladaptive coping mechanism for underlying mental health issues and is linked to social influences from peer groups and through social media. The purpose of this article is to analyze this theory and its associated hypotheses against the existing evidence base and to discuss its potential implications for future research and the advancement of treatment paradigms.

Psychodynamic psychotherapy for gender dysphoria is not conversion therapy.

Over the last ten years, there has been a substantial increase in the number of children and adolescents referred to gender clinics for possible gender dysphoria. The gender affirming model of care, a dominant treatment approach in Canada, is based on low quality evidence. Other countries are realizing this and making psychosocial treatments and/or exploratory psychotherapy a first line of treatment for gender related distress in young patients. Psychodynamic (exploratory) psychotherapy has established efficacy for a range of conditions, and has been used in youth and adults with gender dysphoria. In Canada, the adoption of psychodynamic psychotherapy for gender dysphoria is impeded by some academics who argue that it may violate laws against conversion therapy. Psychodynamic psychotherapy is not conversion therapy and should be made available in Canada as a treatment modality for gender dysphoria.

Puberty suppression in adolescents with gender dysphoria: an emerging issue with multiple implications.

Controversy exists over puberty suppression (PS) in adolescents with gender dysphoria (GD). PS is preferentially achieved with GnRH analogues. By preventing the development of secondary sex characteristics, PS may improve psychological functioning, well-being, quality of life, emotional and behavioral (especially internalizing) problems and depressive symptoms, thus decreasing suicidality. PS can also extend the diagnostic period and give transgender adolescents time to explore their gender identity. GnRHa may also decrease the need for feminization/masculinization surgery. However, 2-year treatment with GnRHa may result in bone mass accrual retardation (decrease in BMD/BMAD z-scores), growth velocity deceleration (decrease in height SDS), increase in fat mass, temporary pause in oocyte/sperm maturation. The most common side effects of GnRHa are hot flashes, mood fluctuations, fatigue and headache. They are usually mild and rarely lead to GnRHa discontinuation. Based on current scientific evidence, PS could be recommended to adolescents who meet the diagnostic criteria of gender incongruence (by DSM-5 and/or ICD-11) and have long-lasting intense GD, which aggravates with puberty onset. Before initiating PS, possible mental issues should be addressed and informed consent (by the adolescent/caregiver) should be given, after counseling on probable reproductive effects of GnRHa. GnRHa can only be started after the adolescent has entered Tanner stage 2. Nevertheless, published studies are inadequate in number, small in size, uncontrolled and relatively short-term, so that it is difficult to draw safe conclusions on efficacy and safety of GnRHa. Large long-term randomized controlled trials are needed to expand knowledge on this controversial issue and elucidate the benefit and risks of PS.

Transgender people's experiences of hospitalization: A qualitative metasynthesis.

AIM: To identify, synthesize, and interpret the scientific literature on the experience, perspectives, and feelings of transgender people during hospitalization. DESIGN: A qualitative metasynthesis. DATA SOURCES: PubMed, CINAHL and PSYCHINFO were consulted in March 2024. METHODS: A literature review was conducted following Sandelowski and Barroso's four-step metasynthesis methodology. The article selection process was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies were selected based on the objectives of the review, pre-established criteria and quality appraisal. A thematic analysis was conducted after extracting relevant quotations and a metasynthesis table was created to compare quotations and analyse overarching themes. RESULTS: Twenty-two studies were included after screening titles and abstracts, full texts, and references. Three themes were identified: 'Perception of self-identity'; 'Misgendering' and 'Lack of staff training and awareness'. CONCLUSION: Transgender people's healthcare experiences during hospitalization were mainly negative, delayed or uncomfortable. Misgendering and lack of awareness of transgender issues among healthcare workers generated anxiety and frustration. Key aspects of care for transgender people need to be included in all training programs for health professionals. IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION AND/OR PATIENT CARE: There is a need to increase education and awareness among healthcare professionals towards transgender people's needs during hospitalization ensure high quality care. IMPACT: This study addressed the negative experience, perspectives and feelings of transgender people during hospitalization. Misgendering and unawareness of transgender peoples' issues create anxiety and frustration among nurses. Elements to improve care for transgender people need to be integrated into all nursing curricula and training programs. REPORTING METHOD: The authors adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP). PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: Since this was a metasynthesis, no patient or public contribution was required.

Population-adjusted numbers, demographics and mental health among children and adolescents referred to the Norwegian National Center for Gender Incongruence over two decades.

Over the last decade, there has been a sharp increase in young people seeking medical treatment for gender dysphoria/gender incongruence (GD/GI). The aims of this study were to calculate yearly population-adjusted numbers of children and adolescents referred to the Norwegian National Center for Gender Incongruence (NCGI) at Oslo University Hospital (OUS) from 2000 to 2022; to describe the demographic characteristics and prevalence of psychiatric diagnoses, self-harm and suicide attempts among the referred from 2000 to 2020; and to investigate time trends. The study used data from the Gender Incongruence Registry for Children and Adolescents (GIRCA) in Norway. All persons under 18 years (n = 1258) referred to the NCGI between 2000 and 2020 were included: 68.4% assigned female gender at birth (AFAB) and 31.6% assigned male gender at birth (AMAB). We found a sharp increase in referrals to the NCGI favouring AFAB over AMAB. Nearly two in three (64.5%) had one or more registered psychiatric diagnoses. Self-harm was registered among 35.5%, and 12.7% had attempted suicide. Registered psychiatric diagnoses were significantly (p ≤ 0.001) more prevalent among AFAB (67.8%) than AMAB (57.4%). The number of registered diagnoses per person decreased significantly over time, with an average reduction of 0.02 diagnoses per person per year. Although there was a downward time trend in registered diagnoses per person, the total mental health burden among children and adolescents with GI emphasizes the need for a holistic approach.

Dissociative Experiences Among Transgender Women: A Phenomenological Study.

There is little published research on dissociative experiences among transgender people, and none from an in-depth qualitative perspective. In-depth, open-ended interviews (N = 7, 6 trans women, 1 trans man) were conducted to explore how dissociation is experienced (particularly among trans women) and its possible relation to negative emotions. There were several similarities across the dissociative experiences described by participants: six felt themselves disconnected from their body as a whole (in contrast to feeling disconnected to a specific body part), and from the world around them and/or themselves. Four acted out different personalities, and five felt emotionally numb when they were dissociating. Six participants described that their dissociation lessened after they started hormone therapy. Respondents tended to distinguish between dysphoric and dissociative experiences: dysphoric phenomena were more clearly distressful while dissociative ones were more emotionally numb.