Sexual and reproductive health conditions that affect transgender individuals

Transgender individuals face a variety of sexual and reproductive health conditions. Participating in clinics and undergoing screenings for breast cancer, cervical cancer, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and testicular cancer is crucial.

A significant challenge faced by transgender individuals worldwide is being treated differently within healthcare services. Transgender individuals may have bodies that are not clearly identifiable as male or female from the outside. In such cases, many transgender individuals hesitate to seek sexual and reproductive healthcare services due to the fear of being judged or misunderstood.

In Sri Lanka, there is a strong effort within the government healthcare system to provide services without discrimination. If you are a transgender individual, do not hesitate to access the sexual and reproductive health services you need.

In addition to common cancers, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and other conditions that affect everyone, there are specific sexual and reproductive health concerns to consider during the transition process.

Hormone Therapy

It is crucial to follow medical advice when undergoing hormone therapy. Taking hormones without medical supervision can lead to serious complications such as blood clots, high blood pressure, liver disease, and other severe conditions. Consulting a doctor allows you to learn about the appropriate dosage, proper injection methods, and other important precautions.

When hormones are administered via injections, improper hygiene during the process can increase the risk of transmitting infections such as HIV, hepatitis, and other similar diseases.

Body Modifications

If you wish to modify body features such as the jawline, lips, or breasts to align with your gender identity, it is important to seek services from qualified and experienced professionals. For instance, some people resort to injecting silicone to enhance body features. However, injecting silicone into the body without medical recommendations or supervision can result in severe complications. These complications may include allergic reactions that could become life-threatening.

Surgical Alteration of Sexual Organs

Some transgender individuals opt to alter their sexual organs to align with their gender identity. However, not all transgender individuals undergo such surgeries. Financial constraints, a partner's disapproval, personal reluctance, or fear of the procedure are some of the many reasons that influence this decision.

If one decides to undergo gender reassignment surgeries, it is essential to seek services from qualified and experienced providers.

Like any other surgery, if proper hygiene standards are not followed, there is a risk of infections during and after the procedure.

Additionally, it is crucial to inform the service provider about one’s actual health conditions before undergoing surgery. For example, conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure must be disclosed.

Contraceptive Methods

Transgender men who retain their reproductive organs (uterus and ovaries) and are sexually active still have the potential to conceive. Using a suitable contraceptive method can help prevent unplanned pregnancies.

To learn more about contraceptive methods, follow this link.

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Access to these contraceptives is made easy through public hospitals and health centers where they are provided for free. Families can talk to doctors and nurses to learn about.

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