Endometriosis in transmasculine individuals

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Endocrinology
• Transgender Health
• Surgical Gynecology

Background:

• Transmasculine individuals, assigned female at birth and identifying as male, often undergo testosterone therapy for gender affirmation.
• Testosterone therapy can impact reproductive functions, including ovulation and menstruation.
• Endometriosis, a condition causing pelvic pain, is common in individuals with female pelvic organs, but its prevalence in transmasculine populations is understudied.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current literature on endometriosis in transmasculine individuals.
• To identify knowledge gaps regarding the incidence and impact of endometriosis in this population.
• To explore the potential role of testosterone therapy in managing endometriosis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and commentary on existing research.
• Analysis of studies examining hormonal effects on endometriosis.
• Discussion of clinical presentations of pelvic pain in transmasculine patients seeking hysterectomy.

Main Results:

• Testosterone therapy is hypothesized to potentially treat or reduce endometriosis.
• Pelvic pain in transmasculine patients undergoing hysterectomy may be associated with endometriosis, even if less commonly diagnosed.
• There is a lack of comprehensive data on endometriosis prevalence in transmasculine individuals.

Conclusions:

• Healthcare providers should maintain awareness of endometriosis as a potential cause of pelvic pain in transmasculine patients.
• Further research is needed to accurately determine endometriosis incidence and outcomes in transmasculine individuals on testosterone therapy.
• Understanding the interplay between gender-affirming care and gynecological conditions is crucial for optimal patient management.