Hormonization of female transgenders: analysis of adverse events

Abstract

The commercialization of hormones as contraceptives was contemporary with the transgender phenomenon. Currently, estrogen and anti-androgen hormones are essential for the female transgender population as a tool for the transsexualization process guaranteed by law. This study aimed to investigate
adverse events related to the use of hormones by the transgender female population for hormone purposes. Therefore, an integrative literature review was carried out, seeking complete articles available in the Virtual Health Library database published in English and Portuguese between 2011 and 2021, using the descriptors transgender woman, transsexual woman, trans people, transgender, female transsexual, and hormone. The most cited drugs were the hormones estradiol acetate, estradiol valerate, cyproterone, and the anti-androgens, spironolactone, and fi nasteride. The most frequent adverse events were the development of thrombi and mood changes, followed by changes in hematopoiesis parameters, decreased fertility, and changes in prolactin levels and bone density. Multidisciplinary health teams, including pharmacists, must
be prepared to serve the trans female population, providing guidance on the correct use of hormones and monitoring treatment, contributing to better care, and preventing or reducing adverse events.