Transgender individuals often face challenges in aligning their physical bodies with their true gender identity. Gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) is a key method used by transgender men to achieve physical changes that match their gender identity. One of the most common treatments is testosterone therapy, which helps induce masculinizing effects such as increased muscle mass, cessation of menstruation, and a deeper voice. However, the lack of extensive research on the long-term effects and safety of testosterone therapy complicates medical decisions and perpetuates the stigma surrounding transgender healthcare.
A study led by Assistant Professor Yusuke Tominaga, along with Dr. Tomoko Kobayashi and Dr. Motoo Araki from the Department of Urology at Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan, aimed to address these gaps. The study, published in Andrology on April 2, 2024, investigates the long-term physical effects and safety of testosterone therapy for transgender men.
Dr. Tominaga explained the inspiration behind the research: “We noticed there was no standardized approach for adjusting testosterone dosages. Our goal was to better understand how to align hormone levels with typical male testosterone levels in the bloodstream.”
The team analyzed data from transgender men who began GAHT between May 2000 and December 2021. They carefully examined physical changes, blood test results, and menstrual cessation rates, comparing the effects of low-dose and high-dose testosterone regimens.
The study found that both low-dose and high-dose testosterone led to positive outcomes. Menstrual cessation rates were similar across both groups in the first 12 months. Over time, participants experienced a decrease in body fat percentage and an increase in lean body mass, confirming the desired masculinizing effects of testosterone therapy.
Interestingly, those in the high-dose group showed more significant gains in lean body mass during the first year, indicating that a higher dose may help achieve faster changes in body composition. Importantly, the study did not find any long-term, dose-related side effects, such as polycythemia or dyslipidemia, suggesting that testosterone therapy is safe for most individuals.
Dr. Tominaga emphasized the study’s impact: “Our findings provide valuable insights into the long-term effects of testosterone therapy. By offering evidence on both its safety and effectiveness, we hope to reduce the uncertainty around transgender healthcare and help individuals make informed decisions about their treatment.”
This research paves the way for more inclusive, evidence-based healthcare, offering clearer guidance on testosterone therapy for transgender men.
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