Abstract:
This study investigated the experiences of transgender women after following sessions
for speech feminization using semi-structured face-to-face interviews. Transgender women who
completed a clinical trial were invited for an interview and 12 accepted the invitation. Interviews
were conducted using an interview guide and were recorded and transcribed verbatim. NVivo 12
was used for qualitative data analysis, applying an inductive thematic approach. Four main themes
were identified: communication, therapy experiences, impact on mental health, and external factors
associated with the outcomes. For most participants, fear of speaking in public decreased after the
training and all participants mentioned improved vocal characteristics. Though, reactions ranged
from needing more speech therapy to being satisfied with the results. Coping strategies during
misgendering occasions differed a lot between participants. More emotive counseling during speech
feminization sessions is necessary to help clients in managing possible negative emotions.
