Ricerc@Sapienza

Introduction: In recent years, the use of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogues in adolescents diagnosed with gender dysphoria (GD) to suppress puberty has been adopted by an increasing number of specialised gender clinics, generating controversial debate. Following an overview of the difficulties associated with this heterogeneous group of adolescents and a discussion of the arguments for and against the suspension of puberty, this contribution presents a qualitative research developed interviewing older trans people about their experiences with hormone therapy (HT) and their opinion about the suppression of puberty. Purpose: The main aim of the research is to explore thoughts and experiences of gender non-conforming adults regarding the psychological aspects of hormonal treatments, including the controversial issue of puberty suppression. Methods: A semi-structured interview for trans adults was constructed. The interview explored the personal history of trans individuals with regard the onset and the development of GD, their experiences with HT, and their opinions about the use of GnRH analogues to suppress puberty in trans children and adolescents. Interviews’ transcripts have been analysed with the method of Consensual Qualitative Research (CQR). Results: Eight trans adult women were interviewed (mean age: 36.8). Several themes emerged, among those: experiences with the development of GD, relationship with the specialised services, experiences with puberty and bodily changes, associated psychological problems, sexuality and affective relationships before and after treatments. Regarding suppression of puberty, we found a lack of consensus, reflecting a controversial debate on this treatment protocol among trans individuals too. Conclusion: With this study we gave voice to an under-represented group in previous research regarding the use of GnRH analogues to suppress puberty in trans individuals, collecting first hand insights on a debated treatment, recommended by professional international guidelines.