Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 15, 2026

Establishment of Rat Models Mimicking Gender-affirming Hormone Therapies
Published on: January 10, 2025
Contraception for transgender and gender diverse people
Alessandra Lami1,2, Manuela Farris3, Maria Cristina Meriggiola1,2
1Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna - Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, Bologna, Italy.
Introduction:
Contraceptive counselling and contraception prescription in transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) individuals remain an underrecognized aspect of TGD care, and dedicated recommendations are still limited.
Methods:
This Expert Opinion aims to provide up-to-date practical guidance for clinicians on this topic, based on a comprehensive review of the available literature, current international recommendations, and the authors' clinical experience.
Results:
It reviews the available contraceptive options, including short-acting and long-acting reversible contraceptives, barrier methods, and permanent contraception, discussing their advantages, limitations, and clinical applicability in the context of gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT). Particular attention is paid to contraceptive counselling, menstrual suppression, management of unscheduled bleeding, and practical aspects that may influence contraceptive choice and adherence in TGD population.
Conclusion:
This Expert Opinion provides practical recommendations to support individualised contraceptive counselling and evidence-informed contraceptive prescribing, with the aim of improving reproductive healthcare and promoting informed shared decision-making for TGD individuals.
Related Concept Videos
Birth Control Methods
Intrauterine Drug Delivery Systems
Transdermal Drug Delivery Systems
Hormonal Regulation of the Menstrual Cycle
At puberty, GnRH begins a pulsatile release pattern, which triggers the anterior pituitary gland to secrete follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). The frequency and amplitude of GnRH pulses vary across the menstrual cycle, with faster pulses favoring LH release and slower pulses favoring FSH release.
Gonadal and Placental Hormones
In males, testosterone is the primary gonadal androgen. It plays a central role in the maturation of male reproductive organs â the penis and testes. Additionally, testosterone is instrumental in the development of secondary sexual characteristics â a deep voice as well as facial and pubic hair growth â and...
Infertility in Females
Endometriosis, a condition characterized by abnormal growth of endometrial...
