Parisi GJ. The therapeutic pathways of transvestites and trans women with problems resulting from the use of industrial silicone. Interface (Botucatu). 2026; 30: e260050 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1590/interface.260050
Abstract
The use of industrial silicone for cosmetic purposes by transvestites and trans women became widespread in the 1980s, posing a public health issue. Despite the level of clandestine use of silicone and its harmful effects, this problem has received little attention from the field of humanities. This study therefore explored the therapeutic journeys of transvestites and trans women with health problems resulting from the use of this product. Using a qualitative approach, three transvestites and one trans woman living in São Paulo were interviewed to understand their search for therapeutic solutions. Three thematic categories emerged: Self-medication; Therapeutic (im) possibilities; and Care-accusation mechanisms. The journeys demonstrate that the Brazilian National Health System (SUS) is repeatedly called upon to address this problem, but various obstacles prevent access to comprehensive care.
Keywords
Therapeutic pathways; Transvestites; Trans women; Industrial silicone
Access in: https://doi.org/10.1590/interface.260050
