7275 Diverse Reasons for Discontinuing Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy

Abstract

Abstract Disclosure: A. Jain: None. M.S. Irwig: None. Many Transgender and Gender Diverse (TGD) individuals take Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy (GAHT). A study that included 264 adults [67% assigned male at birth (AMAB)] in Georgia found that 2% (n=5) discontinued GAHT over a follow-up period of 64 months. Reasons identified were change in gender identity (n=2), financial barriers (n=2) and venous thrombosis (n=1). Discontinuation was temporary for 2 and permanent for 2. Here we describe the reasons why four TGD individuals discontinued GAHT. Case Descriptions: Patient 1, AMAB, came out as gay as a teenager. In his mid 30s he became unhappy which he attributed to a conflict between religion and his sexual orientation and failed relationships. He thought that changing his sex would solve his problems. He took injectable estrogen for 3-4 years. He subsequently underwent multiple gender-affirmation surgeries including facial feminization surgery, breast implants, an orchiectomy and vaginoplasty. Immediately following the breast implant surgery he had regrets and wanted them removed. He also regretted the vaginoplasty. He stopped estrogen following the bottom surgery. In his 40s he stated that he would like to detransition as he sees himself "as a fake" when looking in the mirror. Patient 2 was assigned female at birth. Puberty was associated with discomfort from having a large chest. In his late 20s he began injectable testosterone which he took for three years. He then decided to take a two year break as he was frustrated that he had not achieved the desired results and because he was still not able to pass as a man. He resumed testosterone two years ago and underwent top surgery. Patient 3, AMAB, knew from a young age that he was transgender. He took estrogen and an antiandrogen for > 5 years and underwent an orchiectomy and vaginoplasty. He was pleased with the results from the GAHT and surgeries. He presented as a woman for many years. A few years ago, however, he awoke one day with the thought that God wanted him to be a man. He decided to detransition and presented to the endocrinology clinic to start testosterone therapy. Patient 4, AMAB, began GAHT in her late 30s. She discontinued GAHT 4 years later due to lack of results (feminization, larger breasts, wider hips and a more curvy figure). She presented to the endocrinology clinic 2 years later, wanting to resume GAHT. Conclusion: In addition to the reasons identified by Gupta et al for discontinuation of GAHT, we also identified unrealistic expectations, not achieving the desired results and perceived conflict between religion and gender identity. Endocrinologists should be aware of the possibility of discontinuation of GAHT and know how to manage any potential complications such as hypogonadism that may arise. Reference: Gupta P et al. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2023. Presentation: 6/2/2024