Cross-sex hormone therapy in Australia: the prescription patterns of clinicians experienced in adult transgender healthcare

Abstract

Background: Despite increasing demand for transgender healthcare, guidelines for cross-sex hormone therapy are based on low-level evidence only. As most data are based on international expert opinions, interpretations and practices vary significantly.

Aims: To aid the development of Australian clinical guidelines, we aimed to identify cross-sex hormone therapy prescribing patterns among medical practitioners experienced in adult transgender healthcare.

Methods: We conducted an anonymous online survey of experienced hormone prescribers who were members of the Australian and New Zealand Professional Association for Transgender Health (ANZPATH).

Results: We received 35 responses from 43 individuals listed with ANZPATH. Mental health assessments prior to commencement of hormonal therapy were recommended by 80% of prescribers. The preferred first-line masculinising hormone therapy was intramuscular testosterone undecanoate (46% of respondents). The most commonly prescribed feminising agents were oral estradiol valerate (first line in 71.4%), with either spironolactone or cyproterone acetate. Most respondents (>90%) targeted sex steroid reference ranges of the affirmed gender, and 71.4% reviewed individuals every 2-3 months in the first year. Better training for doctors was seen as the most pressing priority for government funding, and 79.3% supported the development of local Australian-based guidelines.

Conclusions: Experienced hormone prescribers in Australia largely use medication regimens and monitor sex steroid levels and potential adverse effects of sex hormone therapy in accordance with broad, subjective recommendations listed in international guidelines. Additional practitioner training is necessary, and local Australian-based guidelines would offer specific, relevant guidance to clinicians in the initiation and monitoring of cross-sex hormone therapy for adult transgender individuals.

Keywords: clinical decision-making; estradiol; gender dysphoria; testosterone; transgender persons.