Gender affirming care for the minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon

Given the current political climate and the release of an updated version of the World Professional Association for Transgender Health's guidelines, this review assesses recent updates in the care of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) patients, specifically related to care provided by gynecologists.

The number of people identifying as TGD and pursuing gender affirming care is increasing. Contraception for these patients is underdiscussed and high rates of pelvic pain and irregular bleeding were identified. Rates of regret are low following gender affirming surgeries, and studies have repeatedly shown their benefits for gender dysphoria. A minimally invasive approach is recommended for gender affirming hysterectomy, and the decision to proceed with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy should be based on shared decision making. Surgical techniques include ensuring an adequate margin when taking the infundibulopelvic ligament, and consideration for two-layer vaginal cuff closure.

Gynecologists play a key role in the care of TGD patients. Recent reviews have found extensive gaps in our knowledge, including a lack of guidelines for cancer prevention, effects of testosterone on benign conditions, and the long-term effects of bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy on health outcomes for patients on testosterone.