What to Know About Birth Control If You're Transmasculine
In this article from "SELF" magazine, Lane Gillespie provides guidance around birth control for trans men, transmasculine people, and nonbinary people. Following the overturning of Roe, Gillepsie recognized first-hand the need for access to contraception for trans men. Transmasculine people can experience stigma and the effects of gender dysphoria in health care. So, this article focuses on long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) and permanent contraception (sterilization).
For the article, Gillespie spoke with Holly Cummings, MD, MPH who specializes in transgender gynecological care, Mary Jane Minkin, MD who is on the SELF medical review board and a clinical professor of gynecology and reproductive sciences at Yale, and a doctor who is a trans man and requested to be anonymous.
Trans men, transmasculine people, and nonbinary people need to know that being on testosterone doesn’t prevent pregnancy. We can still ovulate while on testosterone, so we need birth control. Hormonal birth control won’t affect testosterone. We can choose our birth control options based on our needs and what works best for our bodies.
To find a trans-friendly doctor, talk to friends, visit LGBTQ resource groups, or inquire on social media. Other resources include TransHealth, The Gay and Lesbian Medical Association, and the National Center for Transgender Equality.
Remember that you are your best advocate, even though it shouldn’t be up to you as an individual to fight for your care. Not every trans person has the ability to safely come out or talk frankly about what they need, but if you’re able, creating an open dialogue with your provider can be the best way that you access vital health care. Reproductive care and access to contraception are important for everyone, regardless of their future family planning goals, and it can be especially important—physically and mentally—for trans people who want to reduce gender dysphoria and experience the bodily autonomy and dignity we all deserve.
SOURCE: Self Magazine • AUTHOR: Lane Gillespie • LAST UPDATED: September 29, 2022
