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Updated: Jun 12, 2026
05:25
Ultrasonography of the Adult Male Urinary Tract for Urinary Functional Testing
Published on: August 14, 2019
Gender-Affirming Testosterone Treatment and Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms
Fabiana M Kreines1,2, Caroline Cox1,3, Sunni L Mumford4
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Urogynecology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA.
Urogynecology (Philadelphia, Pa.)
|June 11, 2026
Summary
Gender-affirming testosterone therapy is linked to fewer lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in transgender men and transmasculine individuals. This study found testosterone use was associated with a significantly lower likelihood of moderate-to-severe bladder problems.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Endocrinology
- Gender-affirming care
Background:
- Transgender and gender diverse individuals experience lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) at higher rates.
- Factors contributing to LUTS in this population remain poorly understood.
- 1.6 million individuals in the US identify as transgender and gender diverse.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare LUTS severity in transgender men/transmasculine individuals on testosterone therapy versus those not on therapy.
- To investigate the hypothesis that gender-affirming testosterone reduces LUTS severity.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of transgender individuals (assigned female at birth, 18+ years).
- Participants received care within a single tertiary care hospital system.
- LUTS assessed using the Patient Perception of Bladder Condition questionnaire.
Main Results:
- 131 participants included: 106 on testosterone, 25 not on testosterone.
- Individuals on testosterone were 5 times less likely to report moderate-to-severe bladder problems (6.6% vs 36%, P<0.001).
- Mean age was 30.4 ± 7.2 years; majority identified as White (82.4%).
Conclusions:
- Gender-affirming testosterone therapy is associated with less bothersome LUTS in transgender men/transmasculine individuals.
- Further research is needed to understand the relationship between testosterone and LUTS.
- Findings suggest a potential benefit of testosterone therapy for urinary symptoms in this population.
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