Q: How can birth control be inclusive of the trans population?
A: People with a range of identities and orientations can benefit from birth control. Pregnancy can happen anytime someone with a uterus has vaginal sex with someone with a penis, no matter their gender identity or sexual orientation.
Be aware of the facts! For example, many trans men use testosterone. This stops menstrual cycles for most, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t get pregnant. Some trans men have gotten pregnant even when they weren’t having their periods and were still taking testosterone. Testosterone doesn’t completely stop egg production, so some people will still release eggs even on testosterone and even without a period. In other words, testosterone isn’t good birth control.
If getting pregnant isn’t in your plan, what are your options? All the methods that cisgender women may consider are also good options for trans men. Don’t let cisgender norms get in the way of taking care of your sexual health!
Check out Bedsider for more information about your birth control options.
For more LGBTQ+ resources, visit www.teenconnecttampabay.org/lgbtq
Check back weekly for more answers to your FAQs!
Amy Weiss, MD, MPH, adolescent medicine specialist at the Ybor Youth Clinic
Medical Director, TGH+USF Adolescent Bariatric Program and Interim Chief, Division of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, USF Health
Comments