Effects of Testosterone Among Transmasculine Individuals
Summary:
In the description of this study, the anatomic word ‘vagina’ will be used; however, study participants who do not use this word for their anatomy can let us know what term they would like us to use during the study.
The purpose of this study is to learn how testosterone affects vaginal health; specifically, to see whether testosterone therapy is associated with thinning of the vaginal skin, vaginal symptoms like pain or itching, inflammation, and if there are any increases in vaginal bacteria associated with sexually transmitted infections.
There are two study visits:
The first visit is before starting testosterone, the second visit is three months after starting testosterone.
Participants will receive $140 after each study visit.
At each visit, a clinician will perform a pelvic exam, and will collect specimens including:
– Vaginal swabs (total of 6). Participants can opt to self-swab rather than having it done by the doctor.
– Vaginal biopsies: the doctor will remove a tiny piece of skin (the size of a grain of rice) from two places inside the vagina, after injection of numbing medicine.
Participants will also fill out a survey about themselves and their medical and sexual history.
This study does not provide testosterone. Participants will start testosterone as directed by their care provider.
This study will not impact your clinical care in any way.
Participant Eligibility:
– Age 18-45
– Assigned female birth sex
– Are seeking to initiate a standard masculinizing regimen of testosterone
– No use of testosterone within the past 1 year
– Have not undergone vaginectomy, hysterectomy, or oophorectomy
Study Contact Name:
Mike Donahue (he/him)
Phone (call or text): 206-290-8294
[email protected]