1. psychology.asu.edu/clinic/faqs

I’m not a doctor, but I can provide some general information. The eligibility for FTM (Female-to-Male) oophorectomy surgery, also known as ovariectomy, can vary depending on individual circumstances and the requirements of the healthcare provider or surgeon. It’s important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional, such as an experienced gender-affirming surgeon or endocrinologist, who can evaluate your specific situation and provide personalized advice.

Substance abuse history may be a factor considered during the evaluation process, as it can impact your overall health and well-being, as well as the potential risks and outcomes of surgery. Substance abuse can affect anesthesia, wound healing, and post-operative care. It’s crucial to be honest about your medical history, including substance abuse, when discussing surgical options with your healthcare provider. They will be able to provide you with the most accurate and appropriate guidance based on your specific circumstances.

Remember, the decision for any surgery, including gender-affirming procedures, should be made in collaboration with your healthcare provider, who will consider multiple factors to ensure the best possible outcome for your individual situation.

FTM (Female-to-Male)Oophorectomy

The decision to undergo FTM (Female-to-Male) oophorectomy, the surgical removal of the ovaries, is a complex one that involves considerations of an individual’s overall health, including any history of substance abuse. Here are some details related to FTM oophorectomy and a history of substance abuse:

1. Medical Evaluation:

1. • Before any gender-affirming surgeries, including oophorectomy, individuals typically undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation. This evaluation considers overall health, existing medical conditions, and potential risks associated with surgery, taking into account any history of substance abuse.

1. Substance Abuse Assessment:

1. • A history of substance abuse is an important factor in the medical assessment. Healthcare providers will likely conduct a thorough substance abuse assessment to understand the nature and extent of the individual’s history, as substance abuse can impact surgical outcomes and recovery.

1. Impact on Anesthesia:

1. • Substance abuse can have implications for anesthesia during surgery. Individuals with a history of substance abuse may have altered tolerance to anesthesia, and healthcare providers must carefully consider this aspect to ensure the safety of the surgical procedure.

1. Mental Health Considerations:

1. • Substance abuse is often linked to mental health issues. Mental health considerations are crucial in the decision-making process for gender-affirming surgeries. Mental health professionals may assess an individual’s readiness for surgery and provide support in managing potential challenges.

1. Integrated Care Approach:

1. • An integrated care approach involves collaboration between different healthcare providers, including surgeons, mental health professionals, and addiction specialists. This approach aims to address both the gender dysphoria and any coexisting health issues, such as substance abuse.

1. Recovery Support:

1. • Individuals with a history of substance abuse may require additional support during the surgical recovery process. This support may include access to counseling, addiction treatment programs, and ongoing mental health care to address potential challenges and prevent relapse.

1. Informed Consent:

1. • Informed consent is a crucial aspect of any medical procedure, including gender-affirming surgeries. Healthcare providers will thoroughly discuss the potential risks and benefits of oophorectomy, taking into account the individual’s history of substance abuse, to ensure an informed decision.

1. Individualized Treatment Plans:

1. • Treatment plans for FTM oophorectomy are highly individualized. Healthcare providers work with patients to tailor a plan that considers their unique medical history, mental health, and any substance abuse issues, ensuring a holistic and patient-centered approach.

1. Post-Surgery Follow-Up:

1. • Post-surgery care includes regular follow-up appointments to monitor the individual’s recovery and address any concerns. Continued mental health support and substance abuse treatment, if needed, play a crucial role in the overall well-being of the individual.

1. Supportive Networks:

1. • Having a supportive network is essential for individuals with a history of substance abuse undergoing FTM oophorectomy. This network may include healthcare professionals, friends, family, and support groups to provide emotional support and assistance in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

It’s important for individuals considering FTM oophorectomy, especially those with a history of substance abuse, to engage in open and honest communication with their healthcare providers. This communication ensures that all relevant factors are considered in the decision-making process, promoting a safe and successful surgical experience.

Surgery eligibility

Surgery eligibility refers to the criteria that individuals must meet to be considered suitable candidates for a specific surgical procedure. In the context of gender-affirming surgeries, such as FTM (Female-to-Male) oophorectomy or other gender-confirming procedures, eligibility is determined by a combination of medical, psychological, and sometimes legal considerations. Here are details on surgery eligibility:

1. Medical Evaluation:
   • A thorough medical evaluation is typically the first step in determining surgery eligibility. This evaluation assesses an individual’s overall health, any existing medical conditions, and their ability to tolerate surgery and anesthesia.
2. Age and Developmental Factors:
   • The age of the individual can be a factor in surgery eligibility. Some procedures may have age-related guidelines, and in the case of transgender surgeries, individuals may need to meet age requirements determined by healthcare providers or guidelines from professional organizations.
3. Hormone Therapy:
   • Hormone therapy, often involving testosterone administration for FTM individuals, is a common aspect of gender transition. Some surgeries may have eligibility criteria related to the duration of hormone therapy, ensuring that individuals have undergone sufficient hormonal changes before proceeding with surgery.
4. Mental Health Assessment:
   • Mental health plays a significant role in surgery eligibility. Mental health professionals assess an individual’s readiness for surgery, addressing any underlying mental health concerns and ensuring that the person has a realistic understanding of the potential outcomes and challenges associated with the procedure.
5. Stable Social Support:
   • Having a stable support system, including friends, family, or a chosen support network, is often considered in surgery eligibility. Social support can contribute to a positive recovery experience and help individuals navigate the emotional aspects of gender-affirming surgeries.
6. Informed Consent:
   • Informed consent is a critical component of surgery eligibility. Individuals must have a clear understanding of the risks, benefits, and potential outcomes of the surgery. Healthcare providers ensure that patients are well-informed and voluntarily agree to the procedure.
7. Legal Requirements:
   • In some cases, legal requirements may impact surgery eligibility. This could include meeting certain criteria or obtaining legal documentation, such as letters of recommendation from mental health professionals, to comply with local or regional regulations.
8. Real-Life Experience (RLE):
   • Some gender-affirming surgeries, especially genital surgeries, may require individuals to undergo a period of real-life experience (RLE). This involves living as their affirmed gender for a specified duration before being eligible for surgery.
9. Consistency in Gender Identity:
   • Consistency in gender identity is an important factor. Healthcare providers typically assess whether the individual’s gender identity has been stable and consistent over time, indicating a strong and enduring desire for the gender-affirming procedure.

• Overall Well-Being:
  • The overall well-being of the individual is considered in surgery eligibility. This includes factors such as nutritional status, physical fitness, and the absence of medical conditions that could pose increased risks during surgery or recovery.

It’s important to note that eligibility criteria can vary based on the specific surgery and the guidelines provided by healthcare professionals or organizations. Individuals seeking gender-affirming surgeries should work closely with knowledgeable healthcare providers who specialize in transgender care to determine their eligibility and create a personalized treatment plan.

Substance abuse history

Substance abuse history refers to an individual’s pattern of use, misuse, or dependence on psychoactive substances such as alcohol, illicit drugs, prescription medications, or other substances with the potential for abuse. Understanding an individual’s substance abuse history is crucial in various contexts, including medical assessments, mental health evaluations, and treatment planning. Here are details on substance abuse history:

1. Definition of Substance Abuse:
   • Substance abuse involves the use of substances in a way that leads to negative consequences, such as impaired functioning, physical or mental health issues, legal problems, or interference with daily life activities.
2. Types of Substances:
   • Substance abuse can involve various types of substances, including alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, stimulants, opioids, hallucinogens, sedatives, and other drugs. The severity and impact of substance abuse may vary depending on the substance used.
3. Patterns of Use:
   • Substance abuse history considers the patterns of substance use, including frequency, quantity, and duration of use. Understanding whether use has been sporadic, recreational, or chronic provides insights into the individual’s relationship with substances.
4. Dependence and Addiction:
   • Substance abuse history evaluates whether an individual has developed dependence or addiction to a substance. Dependence involves physical or psychological reliance on a substance, while addiction involves compulsive drug-seeking behavior despite negative consequences.
5. Treatment History:
   • An individual’s history of seeking or receiving treatment for substance abuse is essential. This includes information about past rehabilitation programs, counseling, support groups, or medical interventions to address substance-related issues.
6. Impact on Health:
   • Substance abuse history assesses the impact of substance use on physical and mental health. Chronic substance abuse can lead to a range of health issues, including liver damage, cardiovascular problems, respiratory issues, and mental health disorders.
7. Co-Occurring Disorders:
   • Substance abuse history often involves screening for co-occurring disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions. Substance use and mental health issues can be interconnected, requiring comprehensive assessment and treatment.
8. Motivations for Substance Use:
   • Understanding the motivations behind substance use is important. Substance abuse may be driven by factors such as stress, trauma, self-medication, peer influence, or experimentation.
9. Legal Consequences:
   • Substance abuse history may include information about legal consequences related to substance use, such as arrests, legal charges, or involvement with the criminal justice system.

• Family and Social Impact:
  • Substance abuse can have significant impacts on relationships, family dynamics, and social functioning. Assessing how substance use has affected the individual’s social support system is crucial in understanding the broader context.
• Recovery and Relapse History:
  • Information about past recovery attempts and any history of relapse provides insights into the individual’s resilience, coping mechanisms, and the effectiveness of previous interventions.
• Treatment Readiness:
  • Assessing an individual’s readiness for treatment is a key aspect of substance abuse history. Understanding their motivation, willingness to engage in treatment, and commitment to recovery helps inform the development of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Addressing substance abuse history requires a holistic and empathetic approach, often involving collaboration between healthcare professionals, mental health specialists, and addiction specialists. Tailoring treatment plans to the unique needs and circumstances of individuals with a substance abuse history is essential for fostering successful outcomes in recovery.

Surgical candidacy

Surgical candidacy refers to the assessment of an individual’s eligibility or suitability for a particular surgical procedure. This evaluation is conducted by healthcare professionals to ensure that the individual meets the necessary criteria and is in optimal health for the surgery. In the context of gender-affirming surgeries, such as FTM (Female-to-Male) oophorectomy or other gender-confirming procedures, surgical candidacy involves various considerations. Here are details on surgical candidacy:

1. Comprehensive Medical Evaluation:
   • A comprehensive medical evaluation is conducted to assess the individual’s overall health and fitness for surgery. This evaluation may include a review of medical history, physical examinations, and diagnostic tests to identify any pre-existing conditions that might affect surgical outcomes.
2. Age and Developmental Factors:
   • The age of the individual can be a factor in determining surgical candidacy. Some gender-affirming surgeries may have age-related guidelines, and healthcare providers consider developmental factors to ensure that the individual is physically and emotionally ready for the procedure.
3. Hormone Therapy:
   • For transgender individuals, hormone therapy is often part of the transition process. The duration and impact of hormone therapy can be a factor in surgical candidacy. Some procedures may have eligibility criteria related to the duration of hormone therapy to ensure optimal physical changes have occurred.
4. Mental Health Assessment:
   • A mental health assessment is a crucial aspect of surgical candidacy. Mental health professionals evaluate the individual’s psychological well-being, readiness for surgery, and ability to cope with potential challenges associated with the procedure and recovery.
5. Stable Social Support:
   • Having stable social support is often considered in surgical candidacy. Social support, including friends, family, or chosen support networks, can contribute to a positive recovery experience and help individuals navigate the emotional aspects of gender-affirming surgeries.
6. Informed Consent:
   • Informed consent is an integral part of surgical candidacy. Healthcare providers ensure that individuals have a clear understanding of the risks, benefits, and potential outcomes of the surgery. Informed consent involves a voluntary agreement to undergo the procedure after being fully informed.
7. Real-Life Experience (RLE):
   • Some gender-affirming surgeries, especially genital surgeries, may require individuals to undergo a period of real-life experience (RLE). This involves living as their affirmed gender for a specified duration before being eligible for surgery. RLE is often a criterion to assess readiness for certain procedures.
8. Overall Well-Being:
   • The overall well-being of the individual is a crucial consideration. This includes factors such as nutritional status, physical fitness, and the absence of medical conditions that could pose increased risks during surgery or recovery.
9. Legal Requirements:
   • In some cases, legal requirements may impact surgical candidacy. This could include meeting certain criteria or obtaining legal documentation, such as letters of recommendation from mental health professionals, to comply with local or regional regulations.

• Individualized Treatment Plans:
  • Treatment plans for gender-affirming surgeries are highly individualized. Healthcare providers work closely with patients to tailor a plan that considers their unique medical history, mental health, and personal circumstances, ensuring a holistic and patient-centered approach.

It’s essential for individuals seeking gender-affirming surgeries to engage in open and honest communication with their healthcare providers. This collaborative approach helps determine surgical candidacy, address any concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan that aligns with the individual’s goals and well-being.

Medical evaluation

A medical evaluation is a comprehensive assessment conducted by healthcare professionals to gather information about an individual’s overall health, medical history, and specific conditions. This evaluation serves as a foundation for diagnosing and managing health issues, determining eligibility for certain medical procedures, and developing personalized treatment plans. Here are details on a medical evaluation:

1. Patient History:
   • The medical evaluation begins with a thorough review of the patient’s medical history. This includes information about current and past illnesses, surgeries, medications, allergies, and any chronic conditions.
2. Physical Examination:
   • A physical examination is a hands-on assessment conducted by a healthcare provider. It involves examining various parts of the body to assess general health, identify any abnormalities, and gather additional information about the patient’s physical condition.
3. Vital Signs:
   • Vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and body temperature, are measured during a medical evaluation. These indicators provide valuable information about the patient’s overall physiological state.
4. Laboratory Tests:
   • Blood tests, urine tests, and other laboratory evaluations may be ordered to assess specific aspects of the patient’s health. These tests can help identify conditions such as anemia, infections, hormonal imbalances, or organ dysfunction.
5. Diagnostic Imaging:
   • Depending on the medical evaluation’s purpose, diagnostic imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, or ultrasound may be recommended to visualize internal structures and identify any abnormalities or conditions.
6. Specialized Assessments:
   • For certain medical concerns, specialized assessments may be conducted. This could include cardiovascular assessments, pulmonary function tests, neurological evaluations, or other assessments specific to the patient’s symptoms or medical history.
7. Medication Review:
   • The healthcare provider reviews the patient’s current medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements. This information is essential to avoid potential drug interactions and ensure that the patient is receiving appropriate medications.
8. Family History:
   • Information about the patient’s family history of medical conditions is gathered. Family history can provide insights into potential genetic predispositions and help assess the patient’s risk for certain diseases.
9. Psychosocial Assessment:
   • A psychosocial assessment evaluates the patient’s mental health, emotional well-being, and social support systems. This may involve discussions about stressors, coping mechanisms, and the impact of mental health on overall health.

• Review of Lifestyle Factors:
  • Lifestyle factors, such as diet, exercise habits, sleep patterns, and substance use, are assessed during a medical evaluation. These factors can significantly impact an individual’s health and well-being.
• Immunization Status:
  • The healthcare provider reviews the patient’s immunization history to ensure that vaccinations are up-to-date. This is particularly important for preventing certain infectious diseases.
• Counseling and Education:
  • The medical evaluation may include counseling and education about healthy lifestyle choices, preventive measures, and the management of specific health conditions. Patient education is an essential aspect of promoting long-term well-being.
• Collaborative Approach:
  • A medical evaluation often involves a collaborative approach, with different healthcare professionals contributing their expertise. Specialists may be consulted based on the patient’s specific health concerns.
• Informed Consent:
  • In certain cases, informed consent may be obtained during the medical evaluation. This involves explaining the proposed medical interventions, potential risks and benefits, and obtaining the patient’s voluntary agreement to proceed.

A thorough medical evaluation provides a comprehensive understanding of an individual’s health status and serves as the foundation for developing targeted treatment plans and interventions. Open communication between the patient and healthcare provider is essential for accurate assessments and informed decision-making.

Mental health assessment

A mental health assessment is a systematic process conducted by mental health professionals to evaluate an individual’s emotional well-being, cognitive functioning, and psychological state. This assessment helps identify mental health conditions, determine appropriate interventions, and develop personalized treatment plans. Here are details on a mental health assessment:

1. Clinical Interview:
   • The process often begins with a clinical interview, where the mental health professional engages in a conversation with the individual to gather information about their current mental health, history, symptoms, and any factors contributing to their emotional well-being.
2. Presenting Concerns:
   • Individuals are encouraged to express their primary concerns, symptoms, and challenges they are currently facing. This helps in understanding the specific issues that led them to seek a mental health assessment.
3. Mental Health History:
   • Gathering information about the individual’s mental health history includes exploring any previous diagnoses, treatments, hospitalizations, or therapy they may have undergone. This helps provide context for the current assessment.
4. Family History:
   • Exploring the mental health history of the individual’s family members can provide insights into potential genetic factors or familial patterns of mental health conditions.
5. Medical History:
   • Certain medical conditions and medications can impact mental health. A mental health assessment often includes reviewing the individual’s overall medical history to identify any physical health factors that may contribute to mental health symptoms.
6. Assessment Tools and Questionnaires:
   • Mental health professionals may use standardized assessment tools and questionnaires to gather quantitative data about specific symptoms, behaviors, or emotional states. These tools help in providing a more structured evaluation.
7. Mood and Affect:
   • Observing and assessing the individual’s mood and affect (emotional expression) are essential components of a mental health assessment. This includes evaluating the range and intensity of emotions the person is experiencing.
8. Thought Process and Content:
   • Evaluating the individual’s thought process involves understanding how they organize and articulate their thoughts. Assessing thought content involves exploring the themes and topics dominating their thinking.
9. Cognitive Functioning:
   • Assessing cognitive functioning involves evaluating memory, attention, concentration, problem-solving abilities, and overall cognitive performance. This helps in identifying any cognitive deficits or challenges.

• Risk Assessment:
  • Mental health professionals assess the individual’s risk of harm to themselves or others. This includes evaluating the presence of suicidal thoughts, self-harming behaviors, or potential harm to others.
• Social and Occupational Functioning:
  • Understanding how mental health symptoms impact an individual’s social and occupational functioning is crucial. This includes assessing relationships, work or academic performance, and daily life activities.
• Cultural and Diversity Considerations:
  • Mental health assessments are culturally sensitive, taking into account the individual’s cultural background, beliefs, and values. Cultural competency ensures a more accurate understanding of the person’s experiences and challenges.
• Diagnosis and Formulation:
  • Based on the assessment, mental health professionals may formulate a diagnostic impression or provide a provisional diagnosis. This information guides treatment planning and intervention strategies.
• Collaborative Goal Setting:
  • The mental health assessment process often involves collaborative goal setting. Mental health professionals work with the individual to identify treatment goals, strategies, and potential interventions that align with their needs and preferences.
• Referral for Further Evaluation or Treatment:
  • In some cases, a mental health assessment may lead to a recommendation for further evaluation or treatment by specialists, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, or other mental health professionals.

A mental health assessment is a dynamic and ongoing process that adapts to the individual’s needs. It serves as a foundation for developing a holistic understanding of the person’s mental health and guides the formulation of effective treatment plans. Open and honest communication between the individual and mental health professionals is crucial for a thorough and accurate assessment.

Addiction treatment

Addiction treatment is a comprehensive and structured approach to helping individuals overcome substance abuse or dependency on alcohol, drugs, or other addictive substances. Treatment plans are tailored to the specific needs of each individual and often involve a combination of therapeutic interventions, counseling, support groups, and medical interventions. Here are details on addiction treatment:

1. Assessment and Diagnosis:
   • The treatment process typically begins with a thorough assessment to understand the extent of the addiction, co-occurring mental health conditions, and the individual’s overall health. A comprehensive diagnosis informs the development of an effective treatment plan.
2. Detoxification (Detox):
   • For many substances, the initial phase of treatment involves detoxification to safely manage withdrawal symptoms. Detox is conducted under medical supervision and helps the body eliminate the substance while managing the discomfort of withdrawal.
3. Medical Intervention:
   • Medications may be prescribed to help manage cravings, reduce withdrawal symptoms, or address co-occurring mental health conditions. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is often used in conjunction with counseling and therapy.
4. Inpatient Rehabilitation:
   • Inpatient rehabilitation involves residential treatment where individuals stay at a facility for a specified period. It provides a structured and supportive environment, often including individual and group therapy, educational sessions, and various therapeutic activities.
5. Outpatient Rehabilitation:
   • Outpatient programs offer flexibility, allowing individuals to receive treatment while living at home. Outpatient services may include individual counseling, group therapy, and educational programs. It is suitable for individuals with a stable and supportive home environment.
6. Counseling and Therapy:
   • Behavioral therapy is a cornerstone of addiction treatment. Various therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and contingency management, help individuals understand and modify behaviors related to substance use.
7. Support Groups:
   • Participating in support groups, such as 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA), provides a sense of community and ongoing support. Peer support is often integral to maintaining long-term recovery.
8. Dual Diagnosis Treatment:
   • Individuals with co-occurring mental health disorders and substance use disorders require integrated treatment. Dual diagnosis treatment addresses both conditions simultaneously to improve overall mental health and reduce the risk of relapse.
9. Family Therapy:
   • Involving the family in treatment can be crucial for support and addressing underlying family dynamics that may contribute to substance abuse. Family therapy helps improve communication, understanding, and the overall family environment.

• Education and Skill Building:
  • Education about addiction, relapse prevention, coping skills, and life skills is an essential component of treatment. Learning strategies to manage stress, triggers, and challenging situations supports long-term recovery.
• Holistic Approaches:
  • Some treatment programs incorporate holistic approaches such as mindfulness, yoga, art therapy, or exercise. These activities contribute to overall well-being and help individuals develop healthy habits.
• Aftercare Planning:
  • Aftercare planning is a crucial part of addiction treatment. It involves developing a plan for ongoing support and relapse prevention after the formal treatment program ends. Aftercare may include ongoing therapy, support group participation, and other recovery resources.
• Case Management:
  • Case managers may assist individuals in navigating various aspects of their recovery journey, including accessing resources, managing legal or employment issues, and coordinating care among different providers.
• Crisis Intervention:
  • Addiction treatment programs often have crisis intervention plans in place to address any immediate issues or relapse. Crisis intervention strategies help individuals manage challenging situations and prevent a return to substance use.
• Ongoing Monitoring and Evaluation:
  • Continuous monitoring and evaluation help track progress, identify challenges, and make adjustments to the treatment plan as needed. Regular check-ins with healthcare providers and ongoing support contribute to sustained recovery.

Addiction treatment is a dynamic process that recognizes the individuality of each person’s journey to recovery. Effective treatment addresses the physical, psychological, and social aspects of addiction, fostering a comprehensive approach to wellness and sustained recovery.

Surgical risks

Surgical risks encompass potential complications during or after a procedure. Common risks include infection, bleeding, and blood clots. Anesthesia complications, such as allergic reactions, are possible. Surgical incisions may result in scarring, and organ damage or nerve injury may occur. Delayed healing and adverse reactions to medications are additional concerns. Fluid imbalance, postoperative complications like pneumonia, and wound dehiscence pose risks. Allergic reactions to medications or materials used in surgery may occur. Psychological impact, including anxiety or depression, can also be a consideration. Proper preoperative assessments and informed consent discussions with healthcare providers help manage and minimize these risks.