Scrambling for Parenthood? Conflicted Hope, Biogenetic Parenthood, and Egg Freezing Among Transgender and Gender Diverse Individuals Taking Testosterone in Ontario

Abstract

Transgender and gender diverse (TGGD) individuals remain out in the cold when it comes to reproductive healthcare in Ontario. While trans-based organizations continue to promote the importance of providing gender-affirming reproductive healthcare to all TGGD individuals before, during, and after HRT (hormone replacement therapy), many TGGD individuals remain unaware of their fertility options. Using a 31-question survey, in-depth, semi-structured interviews, and a research journal, this thesis explores fertility preservation among 21 TGGD survey respondents and nine TGGD interview participants living in Ontario who are or have used testosterone (HRT). This thesis uses queer theory and is based on themes of biogenetic parenthood, egg freezing, and conflicted hope to demonstrate how TGGD individuals in ON live out queer kinship by delegitimizing the importance of biogenetic connection. Rather, TGGD participants in this thesis turn to family formation such as adoption, fostering, and mentorship for complex reasons. Even those who have used biogenetic forms of reproduction, such as egg freezing and pregnancy, to form their families deprioritize biogenetic parenthood but still have some concerns regarding age-related infertility. Regardless of the pathway to parenthood and family formation taken by participants, concerns regarding transphobia, financial cost, disability, and gender dysphoria remain.