The Experiences of Trans-Men Undergoing Cross-Sex Hormone Treatment.
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The experiences of trans-men undergoing cross-sex hormone treatment: The role of cross-sex hormones on social identity, gender identity and psychological well-being.
IRAS ID
220651
Contact name
Hannah L Provan
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Edinburgh
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 9 months, 30 days
Research summary
Gender Identity Disorder (also known as gender dysphoria) is rare condition in which an individual perceives their biological sex to be different to that of their preferred gender identity. The term transgender is also used, e.g. trans-man (biologically female, identifies as male) and trans-woman (biologically male, identifies as female). This mismatch between biological sex and gender identity can lead to distress and associated mental health difficulties. Individuals may seek gender reassignment treatment (hormones and/or surgery). Gender reassignment treatment involves: the individual engaging in the lived experience of their preferred gender, cross-sex hormone treatment (e.g. testosterone for a woman wishing to be man) and surgical treatment (e.g. breast reduction). Research suggests that hormone treatment can have a positive influence on an individual’s mental health and quality of life. However, little is known about how transgender individuals experience hormone use and the role that it plays in relation to their mental health and identity. Therefore the aim of this study will be to explore the experiences of trans-men undergoing cross-sex hormone treatment. Individuals attending a gender clinic for treatment will be contacted and provided with information about the study. The researcher will meet with consenting participants to undertake individual, face-to-face interviews to discuss their experiences of undergoing hormone treatment. Interviews will be recorded and analysed using a qualitative method to make sense of the individuals’ experiences. The researcher will provide participants with a summary of results to ensure the themes accurately reflect their experiences. This study will provide insight into the experiences of trans-men receiving hormone treatment and develop our understanding of the impact of testosterone on mental health. This knowledge will help other trans individuals in their decision-making process, enhance clinicians’ expertise and inform service delivery and improvements.
REC name
East of Scotland Research Ethics Service REC 1
REC reference
17/ES/0111
Date of REC Opinion
18 Sep 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion