An Exploration of the Views and Perspectives of Australian Trans and Gender Diverse Individuals About Transvaginal Ultrasound
Caitlyn Wilke, Sav Zwickl, Jane Chalmers, Nayana Parange, Shae Maple, Sarah McMullen‐Roach

TL;DR
This study explores how trans and gender diverse individuals in Australia experience transvaginal ultrasounds, revealing challenges related to inclusive healthcare.
Contribution
The study is the first to investigate the impact of gender identity on transvaginal ultrasound experiences among trans and gender diverse individuals.
Findings
Participants described mixed experiences with transvaginal ultrasound, including emotional distress and feelings of being a novelty.
Cisnormative documentation, staff attitudes, and inadequate informed consent were consistently highlighted as issues.
Three key themes emerged: detective-like experiences, the need to assert refusal, and feeling like a novelty.
Abstract
Transvaginal ultrasound (TVS) is used routinely in gynecological care in Australia to manage gynecological health concerns. Typically, TVS is well tolerated by patients, with low levels of discomfort reported. Trans and gender diverse people assigned female at birth may experience gender dysphoria or testosterone‐related anatomical changes, which could make such intimate examinations physically difficult or emotionally distressing. However, to date, no studies have considered the impact of gender identity on individuals' experiences of TVS. To fill this research gap, we explored the experiences of TVS among trans and gender diverse individuals assigned female at birth within Australia. We conducted semi‐structured interviews with trans and gender diverse individuals assigned female at birth who have experienced TVS in Australia. We analyzed all interviews in line with Braun and…
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Taxonomy
TopicsLGBTQ Health, Identity, and Policy · Gynecological conditions and treatments · Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting Issues
