Evaluating Sexual Functioning in Trans Men During the Gender Affirmation Process: A Mixed Methods Study

Evaluating Sexual Functioning in Trans Men During the Gender Affirmation Process: A Mixed Methods Study

Both sexual experiences and the process of gender transition initiated to reduce gender dysphoria carry cultural characteristics. Gender categories, societal expectations for each gender, and attitudes toward sexual minorities in a given society can shape the lived experiences of trans individuals. Therefore, research on individuals with gender dysphoria in different cultural contexts is of great importance. To our knowledge, no study in Türkiye has examined sexual functioning in trans individuals undergoing gender transition. For this reason, our study aimed to investigate how sexual functioning is affected by the gender transition process in trans men with gender dysphoria, using both quantitative and qualitative methods.

For the quantitative part of the study, 52 participants will receive a sociodemographic and clinical data form, Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale, Sexual Desire Inventory, Utrecht Gender Dysphoria Scale, Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21, and WHOQOL-100 sexual quality of life subscale.

While performing a qualitative study, 12 participants will receive questions about their sexual functioning during the gender affirmation process.

Inclusion Criteria:

18 years or older Diagnosed with gender dysphoria by two different physicians Getting medical support for the gender affirmation process

Exclusion Criteria:

Over 65 years Diagnosed with intellectual disability, dementia, or organic mental disorders Having a systemic disease that negatively impacts sexual function Getting a score above 3 on the Clinical Global Impression Scale