Gynecological Care, Communicative Practices and Access to Health Services: Experiences of Trans Men in the Chilean Health System
Abstract
Introduction: Trans men face persistent barriers when accessing sexual and reproductive healthcare, particularly gynecological services. These challenges extend beyond biomedical issues and are shaped by organizational, cultural, and communicative practices that reproduce binary gender norms, negatively affecting timely access, continuity of care, and the exercise of sexual and reproductive rights.
Methods: A qualitative, phenomenological, descriptive, and exploratory study was conducted. Nine trans men aged 18 years or older with previous experiences of gynecological care in Chile’s public and private health systems were interviewed. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using Colaizzi’s method, applying qualitative rigor criteria (credibility, dependability, confirmability, and auditability).
Results: Structural, organizational, and symbolic barriers emerged. Negative experiences were associated with misgendering, pathologizing language, lack of relevant clinical information, insufficient professional training, centralized services, and the absence of specific protocols. These communicative practices generated discomfort, avoidance of preventive care, and delayed consultations. Facilitators included respectful treatment, clear information, recognition of gender identity, and providers trained in gender diversity.
Conclusions: Gynecological care functions as a communicative and cultural space where meanings about trans bodies and identities are constructed. Implementing inclusive communication strategies, gender-sensitive training, and institutional protocols is essential to reduce inequities and ensure dignified, safe, and comprehensive healthcare.
Article download
Crossmark
License
In order to support the global exchange of knowledge, the journal Estudios LGBTIQ +, Comunicación y Género is allowing unrestricted access to its content as from its publication in this electronic edition, and as such it is an open-access journal. The originals published in this journal are the property of the Complutense University of Madrid and any reproduction thereof in full or in part must cite the source. All content is distributed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 use and distribution licence (CC BY 4.0). This circumstance must be expressly stated in these terms where necessary. You can view the summary and the complete legal text of the licence.
