Transgender Man in Italy Discovers Pregnancy: Joining the Rare Group of ‘Seahorse Dads’

In Italy, a transgender man who was undergoing a transition and had already undergone a mastectomy found himself in a unique situation when he discovered that he was five months pregnant, Aso Naija Reports.

This unexpected development places him among a rare group of individuals known as “seahorse dads,” a term inspired by seahorses, where the male carries and gives birth to offspring.

Referred to as “Marco” in the media, the individual had plans to remove the uterus, but the pregnancy was discovered during a hospital visit in Rome, as reported by the Telegraph.

Dr. Giulia Senofonte, an endocrinologist, emphasized the immediate need to suspend hormone therapy upon discovering the pregnancy.

She expressed concerns about potential risks to the fetus, particularly during the crucial first trimester when organ development occurs.

Senofonte explained that the timing of suspending testosterone dosages is crucial, as high levels of male and female hormones in the parent’s body can pose cardiological risks, such as blood pressure and coagulation problems. Hormone therapy effectively halts the menstrual cycle but does not serve as a contraceptive. Ovulation can still occur, leading to the risk of pregnancy. Senofonte advised the use of contraceptive pills alongside hormone therapy for individuals undergoing transition.

Despite the unexpected pregnancy, Marco intends to proceed with the pregnancy. Legally, he will be registered as the child’s father, although he will be the biological mother, as reported by La Repubblica.

This extraordinary case, believed to be the first of its kind in Italy, highlights the unique experiences of transgender individuals and their journeys through parenthood. It also sheds light on the concept of “seahorse dads,” a small and remarkable group of transgender men who carry and give birth to their children, drawing inspiration from the natural world.