An orchiectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the testicles. It is a common part of gender-affirming surgery for transgender women. The success rate of orchiectomy for transgender women is very high, with few complications.

Here are some of the benefits of orchiectomy for transgender women:
⦁ Reduces testosterone levels. Testosterone is a male hormone that can cause gender dysphoria in transgender women. Removing the testicles will significantly reduce testosterone levels, which can help to alleviate gender dysphoria.
⦁ Increases feminization. With lower testosterone levels, transgender women may experience increased feminization, such as breast growth and fat redistribution.
⦁ Improves quality of life. Orchiectomy can improve the quality of life for transgender women by reducing gender dysphoria and increasing feminization.

Here are some of the risks of orchiectomy for transgender women:
⦁ Infection. Any surgery carries the risk of infection. However, the risk of infection is low for orchiectomy.
⦁ Hematoma. A hematoma is a collection of blood that can form under the skin. Hematomas are a rare complication of orchiectomy, but they can occur.
⦁ Nerve damage. The testicles are located near the nerves that control the penis. There is a small risk of nerve damage during orchiectomy, which can cause numbness or tingling in the penis.
⦁ Infertility. After an orchiectomy, transgender women will no longer be able to produce sperm. This means that they will be infertile.
If you are considering orchiectomy, it is important to talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks. Your doctor can help you decide if orchiectomy is right for you.
Here are some additional resources about orchiectomy for transgender women:
⦁ The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
⦁ GLAAD: https://www.glaad.org/
⦁ Trans Lifeline: https://www.translifeline.org/

Orchiectomy, also known as an orchidectomy or castration, is a surgical procedure in which the testicles are removed. In the context of transgender healthcare, an orchiectomy is often considered as part of gender-affirming care for transgender women (assigned male at birth, AMAB).

Here are some key points to consider regarding orchiectomy in transgender healthcare:
⦁ Purpose: Orchiectomy is performed to remove the source of testosterone production and to alleviate gender dysphoria for transgender women. It reduces the need for ongoing testosterone-blocking medications and can contribute to feminization effects, such as breast development and changes in body fat distribution.
⦁ Hormone Therapy: Orchiectomy alone can have significant feminizing effects, but it is important to note that the procedure does not typically eliminate the need for hormone therapy. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is often continued after orchiectomy to maintain appropriate hormone levels, including the use of estrogen.
⦁ Surgical Technique: Orchiectomy can be performed using different techniques, such as an inguinal approach (where the incision is made in the groin area) or a scrotal approach (where the incision is made in the scrotum). The specific technique may vary based on individual factors and surgeon preferences.
⦁ Reversibility: Orchiectomy is considered a permanent procedure. It involves the removal of the testicles, which cannot be restored or replaced. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider the irreversible nature of the procedure and its implications before making a decision.
⦁ Risks and Side Effects: As with any surgery, there are potential risks and side effects associated with orchiectomy, including bleeding, infection, anesthesia-related complications, and potential damage to surrounding structures. It is important to discuss these risks with the surgical team and understand the potential benefits and complications before making a decision.

If you are considering orchiectomy as part of your transition, it is important to consult with experienced healthcare professionals who specialize in transgender care. They can provide detailed information, assess your specific situation, and guide you through the decision-making process to ensure that you make an informed choice that aligns with your healthcare needs and gender-affirming goals.