Access to fertility preservation for trans and non-binary people in Aotearoa New Zealand

Cult Health Sex. 2022 Sep;24(9):1273-1288. doi: 10.1080/13691058.2021.1944670. Epub 2021 Jul 12.

Abstract

There is a growing need for healthcare professionals to discuss fertility preservation options with trans and non-binary people before commencing medical transition as part of informed consent-based models of care. In this article, we adapt the Five-A framework of healthcare access to examine fertility preservation information and services. To do so, we present an analysis of data from Counting Ourselves, the first comprehensive national survey in Aotearoa New Zealand of trans and non-binary people's health and the first study exploring their access to cryopreservation information and services. Among 419 participants who had received gender-affirming hormones or surgery, 33.7% received information about options for fertility preservation and 15.8% accessed fertility preservation services. Findings from the study indicate the need for greater understanding of trans and non-binary people's desire for genetically related children, and what type of information and form of delivery would be most helpful to ensure equitable outcomes in relation to decision-making around fertility and future family-building.

Keywords: Fertility preservation; healthcare access; informed consent; trans and non-binary.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Cryopreservation
  • Fertility
  • Fertility Preservation*
  • Humans
  • New Zealand
  • Transgender Persons*