Factors which influence Individuals’ Decisions when considering Female-to-Male Genital Reconstructive Surgery

Factors which influence Individuals’ Decisions when considering Female-to-Male Genital Reconstructive Surgery.

 

Rachlin K.
IJT July-September 1999, 3,3.
Abstract [Full Text] PDF

 

  • Abstract
  • Method
  • Discussion
  • Results
  • Implications
  • Suggestions for future research
  • References

 

Abstract

This research examined the factors, which influenced the decisions of people who had considered female-to-male genital reconstructive surgery. The sample consisted of 27 people who had been born as female and had male gender identities. Subjects were recruited from a support group for female-to-male transsexuals (FTMs) in New York City and from participants at a conference for female-to-male transsexuals in San Francisco. A questionnaire was designed to explore subject demographics and surgical decision-making. Respondents rated contact with other FTMs and information from within the FTM community as the most important sources influencing their decision. Lack of money and inadequate medical technology were the most frequent obstacles to implementing their choice. Results illustrate the growing influence of community and peer support services. Results also challenge the expectation that FTMs will request genital reconstructive surgery (phalloplasty in particular) and identify some of the numerous reasons why FTMs may not undergo such surgery.

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