Starting a family is a big decision for anyone, but for cis-hetero couples, it’s often just a matter of deciding to start trying.
For most trans people, it’s not so simple
If you plan on undergoing gender confirmation surgeries or start taking hormone therapy, you need to consider whether you one day hope to have children who are genetically linked to you.
If you want to have your own genetic children, you can’t afford not to plan ahead. Thankfully, your doctors will take the time to go through your reproductive options with you carefully.
Here are some of the things you need to consider before starting any medical interventions.
Hormone treatments can often reduce fertility
Hormone treatments can reduce your fertility. While the effects of hormone treatment can often be reversed, this is not always the case. There might be permanent damage to your fertility even when you discontinue the treatment.
The removal of sexual organs permanently removes the ability to produce sperm and eggs
If your gender confirmation surgery includes the removal of any sexual organs, you will permanently lose the ability to produce gametes (sperm or eggs).
Many trans people choose to bank eggs and sperm, but not everyone feels comfortable doing so
You can cryogenically freeze your gametes for future use – check if your insurance covers this process and the costs of storage. For some transgender people, the idea of preserving their sperm or eggs is upsetting, as it can remind them of sexual organs that don’t/didn’t match with their gender. For others, their hopes to have a genetically-linked child do not interfere with their feelings about their gender identity. Everyone is different!
You have a right to have genetically-linked children
No one has the right to question your desire to have your own genetically-linked children. There are many assisted reproductive technology options available, with more options being introduced all the time. Expressing your desire to have children should never interfere with your right to receive any transition-related services or treatments.
Factors to consider before preserving your fertility
Harvesting sperm and eggs can be an emotional roller coaster, with many factors to consider.
- Your age – If you choose to preserve your genetic material, you should do so when you are as young as possible for the best results.
- Your weight – Being overweight or underweight has a significant bearing on the health of your gametes.
- Smoking – You should always quit smoking for at least three months before preserving your sperm or eggs
- Alcohol and drugs – Similarly, cut down or quit drinking and drugs completely.
- Exposure to toxins – Before you preserve your genetic material, stay away from household chemicals and pesticides.
- Self-prescribed steroids – Always tell your doctor about any steroids you are taking before you preserve sperm or eggs.
- Sexually transmitted infections – Certain STIs can negatively impact the health of your gametes. Speak with your doctor.
- Reproductive issues – Just like cis people, trans people can suffer from reproductive issues that make conception more difficult. Thankfully, there are many forms of assisted reproductive available today that can help you conceive when you are ready.
We wish you all the success with preserving your fertility – but remember, it is never too early to start planning how you will do so! Post your questions and comments in the comment section or email us at [email protected]
