Gender in Transfusion Science Study v1.0
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Trans masculine and Non-Binary service users in Healthcare: How to ensure best practice in Transfusion Science Study
IRAS ID
310105
Contact name
Alexandra Liversidge
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Leeds Beckett University
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 5 months, 31 days
Research summary
Hospital Transfusion laboratories test samples from patients and the provide safe and compatible blood components (it is not about blood donation). Some patients can form antibodies to the blood groups found on red cells which can cause serious transfusion reactions and, if pregnant, cross the placenta and harm the unborn baby. This is called Haemolytic Disease of the Foetus and Newborn (HDFN). To reduce the chance of HDFN, certain blood is issued to people with childbearing potential. The guidelines for this define childbearing potential as ‘female, less than 50 years’.
Binary (male/female) transfusion policies may overlook trans patients. Trans patients may not be identified to the laboratory for a variety of reasons. It is important to investigate current transfusion laboratories practice for this group of patients; how often trans individuals choose to change their name and patient ID number and whether they are aware of the safety issues this may cause; their reproductive desire.
Research questions:
What are the safety issues of transfusing blood components to Assigned Female at Birth Transgender and Gender Diverse service users as perceived by service users/blood transfusion staff?
What are the safety issues regarding the prevention of Haemolytic Disease of the Foetus and Newborn for Assigned Female at Birth Transgender and Gender Diverse service users as perceived by service users/blood transfusion staff?
This PhD project being funded by Leeds Beckett University and eligible participants are those AFAB who now identify as male or non-binary and are over 18 years old. Recruitment is via advertisement in NHS Gender Identity Clinics and relevant trans organisations. The study consists of a short online questionnaire followed by longer semi-structured interviews.
The current practices of transfusion laboratories will be explored through a short online questionnaire. This should contribute to healthcare recommendations for practice for trans masculine and non-binary service users.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Leeds East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
24/YH/0246
Date of REC Opinion
10 Jan 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion