Androgen Effects on the Reproductive Neuroendocrine Axis, 2025 Version
Start Date
12/5/2025
Completion Date
11/30/2028
Summary
This research study investigates whether male-level exogenous androgens inhibit the reproductive neuroendocrine axis in otherwise healthy (non-PCOS) females.
Detailed Description
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is the mainstay of gender affirming care for transgender men (TGM) who have male gender identity after female sex assignment at birth. TGM receiving TRT over time exhibit irregular menstrual bleeding, however, the mechanism of menstrual disruption is unknown. Therefore, the investigators propose to evaluate the effect of chronic testosterone (T) exposure on ovarian hormones and pituitary gonadotropin release that determines menstrual cyclicity. The investigators will conduct a detailed study of blood reproductive hormone secretion in TGM before and during TRT as well as in untreated cisgender female (CGF) control subjects who report female gender identity congruent with female sex assignment at birth. The investigators will also perform periodic clinical and ultrasonographic evaluations.
Eligibility Criteria
Age Range: 18 years to 35 years
Interventions
Testosterone Cypionate 50 milligrams per millileter (mg/mL) Injectable Solution
Conditions
Locations
University of California, San Diego
San Diego, California 92037
United States