A new study published in Cureus provides encouraging news for transgender men seeking gender-affirming surgery, confirming that hysterectomy is generally safe and well-tolerated, with postoperative complication rates comparable to cisgender patients. The study, called “Comparative Analysis of 30-Day Complications in Transgender Men Undergoing Different Routes of Hysterectomy,” used data from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) to provide a detailed look at surgical results for transgender men.
The researchers reviewed the records of transgender men who underwent hysterectomy between 2012 and 2020, analyzing different surgical techniques (laparoscopic, laparoscopic-assisted vaginal, and abdominal hysterectomies) and their respective complication rates within 30 days post-surgery.
Key Findings: Comparable Complication Rates
One of the most reassuring outcomes of the study is the finding that transgender men undergoing hysterectomy had similar 30-day complication rates as cisgender women undergoing the same procedure. These findings validate the safety and efficacy of hysterectomy as a gender-affirming surgery for transgender men and support its continued use as part of comprehensive transgender healthcare.
“Gender-affirming care is essential, and we’re finally seeing data that reinforces what many in our community have known intuitively: hysterectomy can be performed safely and with minimal risk when done by experienced surgeons,” said Dr. Alyssa Hartwell, a transgender health advocate not affiliated with the study.
Minimally Invasive Approaches Offer Added Benefits
The study also highlights the benefits of minimally invasive techniques, particularly laparoscopic hysterectomy, which was the most commonly used approach in transgender men. These techniques showed a trend toward lower complication rates compared to open abdominal surgeries.
For patients, this means a faster recovery, less pain, and a quicker return to daily life, an important consideration for transgender men who are often navigating multiple transitions simultaneously.
Transgender Health Disparities and Access to Care
While the findings are heartening, advocates stress that access to safe, gender-affirming care remains a challenge for many transgender men. Structural barriers like insurance exclusions, discrimination in healthcare settings, and limited numbers of trained providers still prevent too many transgender people from getting the care they need.
“Studies like this are crucial,” said Jordan Wu, a trans health policy researcher. “But we also have to keep pushing for equitable access to these procedures so that all transgender men can benefit—not just those in areas with robust transgender health services.”
The Bottom Line
For transgender men and their loved ones, this study offers data-driven reassurance that hysterectomy, when performed by skilled surgeons, is a safe and effective part of transition-related care. It also demonstrates the value of self-advocacy and working with providers who understand the unique needs of transgender patients.
If you or someone you know is considering gender-affirming surgery, know that these procedures are increasingly understood, supported, and safe. As always, be sure to connect with providers who respect and center your identity and needs, because everyone deserves healthcare that affirms who they truly are.
