(036) BASELINE CHARACTERISTICS OF PATIENTS UNDERGOING GENDER AFFIRMING HYSTERECTOMIES

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Gender affirming hysterectomies (GAH) are one of the many interventions offered to people with uteruses who are seeking gender affirming care. Gender affirming care, especially hormones, has been shown to improve sexual satisfaction outcomes, but no research currently exists on sexual function or orgasm experience after gender affirming hysterectomy in particular. Post-hysterectomy sexual function has only been examined in cisgender populations, and has found mixed results on sexual health, wellness, and function. Research on sexual function and orgasm experience after GAH is needed to inform evidence-based recommendations and advance our understanding of sexual pleasure in a population that has historically been under-researched. Objective To achieve a better understanding of how gender affirming hysterectomies impact the experience of sex through a standardized analysis of orgasms and sexual function. Methods This project is a prospective study of patients receiving gender affirming hysterectomies at a single tertiary care center (November 2023-ongoing). Baseline characteristics (pre-hysterectomy) have been collected and analyzed via surveys asking about demographics, sexual practices, medical history, orgasm satisfaction (Orgasm Rating Scale) and sexual function (Transmasculine Sexual Functioning Index). Results We currently have 5 patients enrolled and anticipate a sample size of 30 participants by mid-February 2024. We plan to present pre-hysterectomy data describing participants’ overall sexual function and satisfaction. We anticipate a diversity of sexual practices and wellbeing. Conclusions There is a dearth in the current literature describing sexual function of individuals pursuing GAH. Further characterizing this population's pre-operative sexual practices and satisfaction will improve our ability to counsel patients considering GAH. Comparing this baseline data to sexual function post-GAH will provide insight into how GAH impacts ability to perform sexually and its influence on overall sexual satisfaction. This data will allow us to provide evidence-based recommendations regarding the impact of hysterectomy on orgasm and sexual function in patients seeking GAH. Disclosure No.