Gender-based analysis of medical and aesthetic intervention needs and priorities of trans and non-binary people in Québec, Canada

This study explored gender-specific needs and priorities in gender-affirming care among trans and non-binary (TNB) people in Québec, Canada. A cross-sectional study was conducted using a questionnaire distributed through organizations working with TNB people. This questionnaire included questions on four categories of gender-affirming interventions (hormonal interventions, facial interventions, upper/lower body interventions, and genital interventions) and open-ended questions. Descriptive bivariate analyses and chi-square tests were performed to describe participants (n = 223) and identify significant group differences. Participants identified as transmasculine (30.9%), transfeminine (37.7%), or non-binary (31.4%), with the greatest proportion (40.8%) aged between 26 and 40 years. Hormonal interventions represented the greatest need (95.5%) and the highest priority for all genders. Gendered differences were identified for all intervention needs, particularly for upper- and lower-body interventions (100% transmasculine, 63.1% transfeminine, 82.9% non-binary; p < 0.001) and facial interventions (18.8% transmasculine, 97.6% transfeminine, 41.4% non-binary; p < 0.001). Our study shows significant gendered differences in needs and priorities for gender-affirming interventions among TNB people in Québec. Our findings highlight the importance of inclusive, gender-responsive healthcare, and support broadening public coverage of gender-affirming interventions to ensure equitable access to care for TNB people.