Parenting desire and intention in the health trajectories of transgender and gender diverse people: A systematic review

The present study aimed at systematizing the psychological contributions on parenting desires and intentions of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals from a minority stress perspective and considering the cis-heteronormativity of our societies. A systematic search was conducted on February 2, 2024, in four databases: Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and PsycInfo. The inclusion criterion consisted of selecting peer-reviewed, indexed English articles specifically addressing the parenting desire and intention in TGD individuals. Thirty-nine records were included in the review, which highlighted that TGD individuals desire and/or intend to have children through a variety of ways (e.g., sexual intercourse, surrogacy, adoption, etc.). The findings are mixed in relation to various sociodemographic variables of the TGD population, which vary based on individual differences. Overall, hindrances due to fertility preservation and the scarce information provided, along with legislative policies prohibiting filiation and other ways to have children (e.g., adoption or surrogacy) to TGD people in various countries can render TGD people’s parenting desires and intentions unattainable phantasies. The reproductive path of TGD individuals is influenced by the cis-heteronormative norms of our society. Gender minority stress and resilience factors can have a significant impact on the TGD individuals’ desire or intention to have children.