(212) Beyond the Body: Psychosexual Functioning and Identity in Transgender Individuals

Abstract Introduction The formation of human identity through the relationship between mind and body, and the importance of this connection in becoming a sexual being, are elements of human life that apply to everyone. However, in the case of transsexual individuals, this path is particularly complex. Transsexual individuals seek a life consistent with their experienced gender and acceptance thereof, prompting actions aimed at aligning their bodies with their psychologically experienced gender. These actions include comprehensive clinical diagnostics to rule out factors that may influence gender identity, followed by lifelong hormonal therapy and undergoing essential surgical procedures to adjust the body to the experienced gender. Objective The aim of the study was to assess changes in body image among transgender individuals across consecutive stages of the diagnostic and therapeutic transition process, and to examine the relationship between body self-perception, life satisfaction and sexual functioning. Methods The study included 104 transgender individuals, divided into three groups based on their transition stage: (1) diagnostic stage,(2) hormonal therapy prior to legal gender change, (3) hormonal therapy following legal gender change. Data were collected using a custom-designed questionnaire addressing transition-related experience and sexual activity, along with the Body Esteem Scale (BES), the Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire (KSS), and the Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS). Results A systematic improvement in body image was observed with across successive stages of transition in both studied groups. Transgender women demonstrated relatively high BES scores already during at the diagnostic stage, and by the post-transition stage the majority reported high satisfaction with their bodies all assessed dimensions. Transgender men in the early stages of transition showed dissatisfaction with key masculine attributes (musculature, body build) and physical fitness. During the treatment an increase in body acceptance was noted – particularly in perceived physical attractiveness – although self-assessment of strength and fitness reminded at a moderate level. Improvement in body image was accompanied by a statistically significant increase in overall life satisfaction and sexual functioning satisfaction. Body image scores were positively correlated with both life and sexual satisfaction. Conclusions Medical gender transition contributes to improved body image in transgender individuals, which is associated with increased overall life satisfaction and sexual well-being. The findings indicate distinct trajectories of change between transgender women and transgender men; Transgender women tend to achieve high satisfaction with their body-image across all assessed aspects, whereas transgender men - despite significant progress – less frequently report full satisfaction with their physical strength and fitness. These results highlight the importance of psychological care and social support throughout transition process, with the aim of enhancing body image, psychosexual functioning, and general well-being in transgender individuals. Disclosure No