If your gender identify is different to the sex you were assigned at birth, you might have some questions about treatment and staying well after a stroke. Your stroke nurse or doctor should be able to give you individual advice about your stroke, and help you find advice and support.
It can be harder for people who are transgender or non-binary to access healthcare. If you feel you’re not getting the right treatment, you can contact the local Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) which can offer you help with resolving healthcare problems or making a complaint. You do not need a Gender Recognition Certificate to make a complaint about discrimination.
If you’re experiencing low mood, anxiety or depression, seek help. The charity MIND’s website has resources about trans and non-binary mental health.
Hormone treatments and stroke
Limited research is available on the risks of stroke for people who are transgender and non-binary. Some studies have suggested gender-affirming hormone treatments may be linked to a rise in blood pressure, particularly in trans men, but more research is needed into this. Any increased risk of stroke associated with hormone treatments should be discussed with your doctor before these are started. You should ensure your blood pressure is monitored while you are taking treatment.
It’s also important to look after your health. Attend any screening checks, such as the NHS Health Check for over 40s where you can get your blood pressure, cholesterol and weight checked and find support with lifestyle changes like stopping smoking. If you need support with your physical or mental health after a stroke, speak to your stroke nurse or GP.
If you were assigned male at birth and were using oestrogen treatment before your stroke, you will probably be advised to stop using it. You may be able to get specialist advice through an NHS gender dysphoria clinic.
If you were assigned female at birth, you might need advice about contraception, heavy periods and menopause treatment options. Speak to your GP or nurse.