Hormone Therapy for Gender Transition: An Integrative Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.36517/mp.v2i.97163Keywords:
Transgender affirmation therapy, Drug utilization, TransgenderAbstract
Transgender (transgender) people are those whose gender identity differs from their birth sex. A significant portion of trans people seek Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy (GAHT) to align their physical characteristics with their gender identity. This integrative literature review aimed to provide an overview of medications used in GHA in trans women and men, based on primary studies published between 2020 and 2025 in three databases and in the International Journal of Transgenderism. After using the search strategy and applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 12 articles were selected for analysis. The results were grouped into categories: GHAHT clinical efficacy; safety and adverse effects; metabolic and bodily changes; psychosocial and behavioral impacts; and adherence to and compliance with clinical guidelines. The use of GHAHT emerges as an auxiliary tool for the gender affirmation process, providing congruence between gender identity and body image, with direct impacts on the mental health and well-being of these individuals. Several studies indicate changes in body composition and metabolic markers. Regular monitoring of adverse effects, particularly those related to hematological and cardiovascular parameters, is necessary, as well as studies of the long-term effects of THAG.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Enzo Barbosa Castro, Maria Eduarda Damasceno Veríssimo de Araújo, Mireia Oliveira Correia, Vitória Júlia Sousa Mota, Ana Cláudia Brito Passos, Mirian Parente Monteiro
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