Effect of Hormones on Frequency of Headache and Brain Structure and Function in Puberty

With a rising population of transgender adults and youth, there is a need for more research to meet the needs of this community. Transfemale (MTF) youth (male sex, female gender identity) who begin clinical Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy (GAHT) with estrogen may be at a higher risk for headache since estrogen has been linked to headache in cisgender females (female sex, female gender identity). This research hopes to learn more about headache in MTF youth.

Inclusion Criteria:For MTF youth (cases):Identify as MTFAge 11-20 years at the time of enrollmentPlan to start estrogen clinically in < 6 monthsFor cisgender male youth (controls):Identify as cisgender maleAge 11-20 years at the time of enrollmentNo diagnosis of Klinefelter Syndrome (XXY)Exclusion Criteria:Cognitive, or psychiatric impairment resulting in inability to tolerate the study procedures not including depression or anxietyKnown history of stroke, multiple sclerosis, or other serious neurologic conditionMRI-specific exclusion criteria (Weight > 500 lbs, claustrophobia, metal in body)