Growth, growth potential, and influences on adult height in the transgender and gender-diverse population

Andrology. 2021 Nov;9(6):1679-1688. doi: 10.1111/andr.13034. Epub 2021 Jun 3.

Abstract

The sexually dimorphic trait of height is one aspect of the experience of transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) individuals that may influence their gender dysphoria and satisfaction with their transition. In this article, we have reviewed the current knowledge of the factors that contribute to one's final adult height and how it might be affected in TGD youth who have not experienced their gonadal puberty in the setting of receiving gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog (GnRHa) and gender-affirming hormonal treatment. Additional research is needed to characterize the influence of growth and final adult height on the lived experience of TGD youth and adults and how to best assess their growth, predict their final adult height, and how medical transition can be potentially modified to help them meet their goals.

Keywords: blockers; gender diverse; growth; height; hormones; transgender.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Body Height*
  • Body Image / psychology
  • Child
  • Female
  • Gender Dysphoria / psychology*
  • Gender Dysphoria / therapy
  • Hormone Replacement Therapy / psychology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Puberty / psychology
  • Sex Reassignment Procedures / psychology
  • Transgender Persons / psychology*