Sexual function is an important component of sexual well-being; however, the body of literature on sexual function has been developed almost exclusively by and for cisgender populations. This body of work overlooks the unique experiences of transgender and non-binary (TNB) populations, including potential differences in how TNB people experience sexual function, use their bodies for sexual activity, and refer to their genital anatomy. An initial research study design was developed by a team of representative professionals working in transgender care and sex research. A consultative community engagement approach was used to refine the study design. Community members provided feedback on the research methodology. Suggestions were incorporated into the study design to improve inclusivity, increase intersectional awareness, and reduce risks associated with conducting sexual function research within the TNB community. The study design carefully integrated community feedback on the following six main areas: (a) de-pathologizing gender, (b) checking and correcting assumptions, (c) addressing “the fallacy of the gender transition,” (d) promoting trust and safety, (e) using a trauma-informed approach, and (f) conducting research with persistence and humility. The resulting research design included a sensitively constructed semi-structured interview guide querying gender identity, preferred terminology for anatomy, sexual expression, and sexual function. Results provide invaluable feedback for conducting sexual function research within and on behalf of TNB communities and can be used to inform researchers interested in designing similar sex research studies.
Walker et al. (Wed,) studied this question.