Topical Estrogen: Brief Intervention to Improve Postoperative Experience for Transgender Men Undergoing Hysterectomy
Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island
Summary
The purpose of this study is to determine if applying a single dose of topical estrogen cream in the operating room at the end of your hysterectomy (removal of uterus and cervix) improves the postoperative experience with bleeding and potential symptoms of dysphoria (a feeling of discomfort or distress). Topical estrogen cream is sometimes used if patients have increased risk of bleeding with surgery but is not currently utilized in a consistent way. This study aims to answer the question of whether this is a helpful treatment and should be included in standard postoperative care.
Description
OBJECTIVES, SPECIFIC AIMS, BACKGROUND Vaginal bleeding causes significant dysphoria in many transgender men. The goal of hysterectomy for many patients is to eliminate the risk of bleeding, but the initial postoperative period often involves postoperative spotting and bleeding for patients, worsening the dysphoria around the time of surgery. Some patients have significant vaginal atrophy secondary to testosterone use, which is likely exacerbating this issue. Unfortunately, application of vaginal estrogen is messy and can worsen dysphoria symptoms for transgender individuals, making it not idea…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18+ years
- Sex
- Female
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Gender diverse/transgender men 2. Age 18 or older 3. Have been on testosterone for at least 6 months with plan to undergo gender-affirming hysterectomy and are willing to be randomized to the use of topical estrogen postoperatively. 4. Have stable physical and mental health 5. No contraindications to estrogen therapy 6. Must be proficient in English or Spanish 7. Must have access to a device to receive text messages for study follow up 8. Must agree to allow their medical data to be used for research purposes Exclusion Criteria: 1. Under age 18 2. Have not been on tes…
Interventions
- DrugUse of topical estradiol
The investigators will conduct a double blinded randomized control pilot trial. Participants will be randomized in 1:1 fashion to either receive no treatment or receive 2g of estradiol cream, placed after clearing the vaginal vault of any blood and discharge, at the conclusion of the surgery.
- OtherNo intervention
This arm will not receive estradiol or other cream
Location
- Women & Infants HospitalProvidence, Rhode Island