Transgender and non-binary individuals - Tissue - Deceased Donors

Essential information

Definition/s

Trans is an umbrella term to describe people whose gender is not the same as, or does not sit comfortably with, the sex they were assigned at birth. Trans people may describe themselves using one or more of a wide variety of terms including (but not limited to) transgender, non-binary or gender queer. Gender-affirming hormone therapy may be used as part of transition by transgender and non-binary individuals.

Includes

Gender reassignment, sex change.

Obligatory

Obtain history and refer to Designated Medical Officer if necessary.

Supporting information

See if relevant

• Hormone replacement and sex hormone therapy
• Tissues safety

Additional information

Assessment of the donor suitability should be according to the gender assigned at the time of donation.

An individual risk assessment is required with regard to potential effects on the donor, donated material and any potential risk to the recipient.

Consideration should be given to the medications used during gender re-assignment. As well as hormones, donors may take other medication to modify the effect of sex hormones as part of gender-affirming treatment. This may include hormone blockers, such as anti-androgens.

Reason for change:

Title changed, definition amended, obligatory section amended, discretionary section deleted, link to ‘Hormone Replacement and Sex Hormone Therapy’ entry added, and additional information section updated.

Version details:

TD-DSG Edition 203 Release 64 (13 October 2025)