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. 2022 Aug 1;7(4):364-368.
doi: 10.1089/trgh.2021.0006. eCollection 2022 Aug.

Transgender Youth Experiences with Implantable GnRH Agonists for Puberty Suppression

Brianna J Hobson  1 , Elle Lett  2   3 , Linda A Hawkins  4 , Robert A Swendiman  5 , Michael L Nance  6 , Nadia L Dowshen  7
Affiliations

Transgender Youth Experiences with Implantable GnRH Agonists for Puberty Suppression

Brianna J Hobson et al. Transgend Health. .

Abstract

This descriptive study reports caregiver experiences with GnRH agonist implants among a cohort of youth followed in a pediatric hospital-based gender clinic. We administered a survey to 36 of 55 eligible caregivers ascertaining demographics and satisfaction, with a medical record review of any surgical complications. The overwhelming majority (97.1%) reported satisfaction with the procedure and would undergo the implant procedure again (94.4%). The most frequent challenges noted were about affordability (39.8%) and insurance denials (39.8%). Implantable GnRH agonist can be used successfully in pediatric patients with gender dysphoria. Future policy should seek to address concerns regarding insurance approval and reimbursement.

Keywords: implant; insurance; patient satisfaction; puberty blockers; transgender youth.

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Conflict of interest statement

No competing financial interests exist.

Figures

FIG. 1.
FIG. 1.
Challenges with the GnRH agonist implant process reported by caregivers (n=36).
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