Transgender individuals have a variety of experiences depending on their unique circumstances, including their medical decisions and the point they are at in their transition. It’s important to note that the term “transgender” is an umbrella term that encompasses a wide range of gender identities and experiences. Here’s an outline of several scenarios regarding transgender individuals and menstruation:
- Transgender Men and Assigned Female at Birth (AFAB) Non-Binary Individuals:
- Some transgender men and non-binary individuals who were assigned female at birth (AFAB) may experience menstruation if they have not undergone hormone therapy or had surgical interventions such as hysterectomy.
- Testosterone therapy, often used in female-to-male (FTM) transitions, typically stops menstruation over time. However, the timeline can vary from person to person.
- Transgender Women and Assigned Male at Birth (AMAB) Non-Binary Individuals:
- Transgender women and non-binary individuals assigned male at birth (AMAB) will not experience menstruation since they do not have a uterus or ovaries.
- Even after undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) with estrogen and anti-androgens, or having gender-affirming surgeries, they will not menstruate.
- Transgender Individuals and Hormone Therapy:
- Hormone therapy can alter the menstrual cycle. Testosterone therapy can stop menstruation, while estrogen therapy (without a uterus) will not induce menstruation.
- Transgender Individuals and Surgery:
- Surgical interventions, such as hysterectomy, will permanently stop menstruation for AFAB individuals.
- Gender-affirming surgeries, such as vaginoplasty for AMAB individuals, create a neo-vagina but do not include the installation of uterine or ovarian tissues, hence menstruation will not occur.
- Transgender Individuals and Fertility:
- The absence of menstruation due to testosterone therapy doesn’t always mean an individual can’t become pregnant, as ovulation can still occur.
- It’s essential for transgender individuals to have discussions with healthcare providers regarding fertility, contraception, and menstrual management as part of their transition care.
The experiences of transgender individuals can be very diverse, and what holds true for one person may not for another. It’s crucial to approach this topic with sensitivity and understanding, recognizing that personal experiences may vary widely.