Login to Access Video or Poster Abstract: MP35-01
Sources of Funding: none

Introduction

Transgender/gender non-conforming adolescents (TGNC-A) often pursue hormonal therapies (puberty blockers; cross-sex hormones) to alleviate gender dysphoria. These therapies may cause impairments in gonadal histology that lead to infertility, such that fertility preservation in adolescence may be pursued. Despite this, little is known about the reproductive desires of TGNC-A. We aimed to address this gap by assessing attitudes towards fertility among TGNC-A.

Methods

An online survey about sexual health in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) adolescents ages 14-17 was conducted via Facebook from 9/16-10/16. We analyzed responses related to fertility and reproductive health among self-identified TGNC-A.

Results

172 TGNC-A (median age 16 years; 35% transgender men [female-to-male], 5% transgender women [male-to-female], 49% genderqueer/gender non-conforming; 52% white, 27% Hispanic, 23% multiracial, 7% African-American, 6% Asian) responded. Overall, 38% were interested in biological parenthood and 71% in adoption. Discussions about hormonal therapies with healthcare providers were relatively uncommon (11% discussed puberty blockers; 21% cross-sex hormones). Accordingly, only 20% have discussed fertility with a provider, and 18% have specifically discussed effects of hormones on fertility. However, 59% of TGNC-A surveyed were interested in learning more about fertility and family building options. Figure 1 illustrates preferred sources for this information; websites and healthcare providers were most common. Key themes/issues derived from qualitative comments included: stigma of LGBTQ parenthood, concerns about body dysphoria, cost of assisted reproductive technologies, and technical questions related to biological parenthood. Only 17% of respondents indicated they were uncomfortable answering questions about fertility.

Conclusions

TGNC-A expressed interest in multiple family building options, including adoption and biological parenthood. Both survey responses and qualitative comments identified the need for more education about these options. Fertility medicine specialists should be aware of the unique needs facing this emerging and increasingly visible population. _x000D_ ?_x000D_

Funding

none