Alterations in body image, self-esteem and quality of life in a sample of Italian transgender individuals before genderaffirming surgery

Abstract

ObjectivesMental health, alterations in body image, self-esteem, general and sexual quality of life among transgender individuals waiting for gender-affirming surgery versus cisgender individuals were investigated.Methods47 Italian transgender participants and 47 cisgender participants completed self-report measures.ResultsCompared to cisgender ones, trans participants showed higher alterations in self-esteem, body image, and psychological, social, and sexual quality of life, together with a comparable level of mental health conditions (Tab. I). No significant differences emerged between trans men and trans women in terms of the variables taken into account (Tab. II). Moreover, trans individuals receiving hormone therapy are more likely to report both better quality of life and body image than those who are not receiving it yet (Tab. III).ConclusionsThe main psychological distress of individuals diagnosed with gender dysphoria seems related to the symptoms directly associated with their gender incongruence, such as body image, self-esteem, and quality of life. Healthcare professionals should consider providing surgery and hormonal therapy together with psychotherapy as best practices for such patients.