(Mis)Gendering bleeding disorders care: A qualitative case study of a trans person with a bleeding disorder

Abstract

Abstract Background The past two decades have seen an evolving discussion as to the complexities of gender identity, particularly with respect to the healthcare needs of transgender (trans) people. The needs of those with a bleeding disorder are relatively unexplored, and there is, therefore, a significant gap in our understanding of how trans people navigate the complexities of living with and accessing care for their bleeding disorder. Aims This paper will seek to address this knowledge gap; telling the story of a trans man with a bleeding disorder and how this has affected their healthcare needs. Methods Two semistructured interviews were undertaken with a trans man to explore their lived experiences as someone with a bleeding disorder. The interviews were recorded and thematically analysed. Results Four intersecting themes were identified: abnormal uterine bleeding, gender incongruence, the difficulty of obtaining an accurate and timely diagnosis, and health inequality. Conclusions The greater visibility of trans issues over the past 20 years has highlighted the culture of healthcare, and in particular, the gendering nature of care. This case study and attendant discussion highlight that there is a need to acknowledge that modern healthcare can be exclusionary leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment, especially in already disadvantaged groups including those with bleeding disorders. Clinicians, therefore, need to re-evaluate their approaches, tailoring the services and care they offer to individuals rather than conforming to gender stereotypes.