Evaluation of the Emotional and Cognitive Effects of Hormone Therapy in Transgenders

Background:
Sex hormones are known by having far-reaching effects on the nervous system and the brain, both emotionally and cognitively. Studies have found a connection between varying levels of different types of sex hormones and changes in emotional states and cognitional abilities. However, most studies have dealt with the effects of adding a deficient hormone, or examining a single functional aspect, most often in cross-sectional studies.

Aim:
In this longitudinal study, we attempted to evaluate the effect of hormone therapy on cognition (memory, attention, and executive functions) and emotional state (depression and anxiety) in transgender men and women.

Methods:
The study involved 16 transgender men and women who began hormone therapy to gender adjustment at the Endocrine Institute at Ichilov Medical Center. Among the participants were 5 transgender men who have been treated with testosterone, and 11 transgender women who have been treated with estrogen and antiandrogen therapy. The participants completed mood self-report questionnaires and a cognitive diagnosis was transferred to them Before the beginning of hormone therapy, and 3-6 months after.

Results:
In both transgender men and women, the executive function measure before the beginning of hormone therapy was significantly lower than the measure with hormone therapy The difference in the measures of memory, attention and emotional stress was not found to be significant.