Transgender and gender diverse autistic adults’ experiences undergoing gender-affirming hormone therapy as prescribed
Authors' conclusion
Findings highlight that autistic adults accessing gender endocrinology settings may experience greater challenges adhering to GAHT as prescribed.
Study context
- Population
- Autistic transgender and gender diverse (TGD) and non-autistic adults undergoing gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) at a state-wide Gender Endocrinology clinic, Australian tertiary hospitalStudy A
- Participants
- 112 participants
- Exposure
- Autistic vs non-autistic TGD adults undergoing GAHT
- Formal ASD diagnosisn = 35
- Self-identifying autisticn = 46
- Non-autisticn = 31reference
- Outcome
- GAHT adherence
Methodological detailsonline survey and convergent mixed-methods interview study, single-centre, state-wide Gender Endocrinology clinic, Australian tertiary hospital, semi-structured interviews, thematic analysis, Study B: semi-structured interviews (n = 6) and Adult/Adolescent Sensory Profile; data analysed thematically and triangulated with AASP results
- Online survey and convergent mixed-methods interview study
- Single-centre
- State-wide Gender Endocrinology clinic, Australian tertiary hospital
- Semi-structured interviews
- Thematic analysis
- Study B: semi-structured interviews (n = 6) and Adult/Adolescent Sensory Profile; data analysed thematically and triangulated with AASP results
Main finding
As reported in the abstract
- Autistic TGD participants experienced more difficulty adhering to GAHT due to sensory processing differences and executive function challenges
Observational data: associations, not effects.
Further findings
Strategies to promote GAHT adherence
- Reflecting on previous sensory experiences, consistent routine, incorporating administration into personal care routines, involving others in appointments, peer support
Original publication
Transgender and gender diverse autistic adults’ experiences undergoing gender-affirming hormone therapy as prescribed. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. Published 8 September 2026. doi:10.
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