Transgender and non-binary peoples experiences of cervical cancer screening: a scoping review

Aim(s)

To synthesise the literature about transgender and non-binary people's experiences of cervical cancer screening and identify ways to improve screening.

Background

Transgender people often face barriers to accessing health services including cervical screening, where transgender people have a lower uptake than cisgender women.

Design

A scoping review was undertaken following the Arksey and O’Malley (2005) framework and the PRISMA-ScR checklist. Following database searching of Medline via PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and CINHAL, 23 papers published between 2008 and 2003 were included. Papers were included if they shared trans and non-binary people's experiences of cervical screening and were written in English. There were no date or geographical data restrictions due to the paucity of research.

Results

Transgender people experience barriers to cervical screening including gender dysphoria, a history of sexual trauma, and mistrust in health professionals or health services, which can result in having negative experiences of screening or avoiding screening. Health professionals can help to create a positive experience by informing themselves about best practices for trans+ health.

Conclusion

Changes are required to improve transgender people's experiences and uptake of cervical screening. Improving medical education about trans health and updating health systems would help to combat issues discussed.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Having an understanding of the reasons why accessing health services can be more difficult for transgender people will help health professionals to provide appropriate care for transgender patients. This paper details this in the context of cervical cancer screening and can be applied to other areas of healthcare.

Reporting Method

We have adhered to relevant EQUATOR guidelines and used the PRISMA-ScR reporting method. No Patient or Public Contribution.