Qualitative Research Project on the Sexual and Reproductive Rights of the Older Transgender Population in Chile 

Introduction 

This report addresses qualitative research on the sexual and reproductive rights of the older trans population in Chile. This group, often made invisible, faces unique challenges that affect their quality of life and access to health services. This study seeks to understand their experiences, identify barriers, and propose recommendations to improve their situation. 

Methodology 

To carry out this qualitative research, various data collection techniques were used, with a focus on in-depth interviews and focus groups. The methodology was divided into several key stages: 

Selection of Participants: 

Based on the theoretical and contextual background, the OTD Chile research team decided to incorporate the following eligibility and inclusion criteria into the study: 

1. Trans and Non-Binary People: 

1. At 35 years old 

1. Who has undergone genital modification surgeries. 

1. Who were forced to sterilizations. 

1. With homemade modifications with Biopolymers 

1. Immunocompromised 

1. Whether they are Parents or are in the process of becoming one. 

Focus Groups Conducted 

1. First Focus Group: Older trans women. 

1. Second Focus Group: Trans masculine and non-binary people. 

1. Third Focus Group: Gender non-conforming people in a homeless context. 

Conducting Focus Groups: Each focus group consisted of sessions moderated by two trained researchers, designed to encourage open and safe discussion. The sessions were structured as follows: 

1. Focus Group of Older Trans Women: This group focused on exploring specific experiences of discrimination and stigmatization, as well as their sexual and reproductive health needs. 

1. Trans Masculine and Non-Binary People Focus Group: This group addressed the unique barriers they face in accessing health services, as well as their experiences with the public and private health system. 

1. Focus Group of Gender Non-Conforming People in a Homeless Context: This group focused on understanding living conditions and access to resources and services, highlighting the specific difficulties of people living on the streets. 

1. In-depth interviews: In-depth interviews were conducted with participants in each focus group, allowing for a more detailed exploration of their individual experiences. These interviews were recorded and transcribed with the consent of the participants, ensuring confidentiality and respect for their testimonies. 

1. Data Analysis: The data collected were analyzed using thematic coding and content analysis methods. This process involved identifying recurring patterns and themes, as well as comparing the experiences of the different focus groups. 

1. Validation of Results: Validation sessions were conducted with participants to ensure that the findings accurately reflected their experiences and perspectives. This step also allowed the researchers to refine their interpretations and ensure that the results were understandable and useful to the older trans community. 

To carry out this project, the commitment and work of grassroots organizations were needed. We would like to deeply thank the support of: 

• Share-Net International 

• Casona Compañía 

• Sindicato Amanda Jofre Cerda (Sex Workers Union) 

• Traves Chile 

• ONG Acción Diversa 

• Trans Paraíso Productions 

• Trans Collective of Uruguay CTU 

• OTD Chile Team 

Documentary Series Project and Photo Book that represents the Sexual and Reproductive Rights of the Older Transgender Population in Chile 

Synopsis: “Cuerpas” is a documentary series that explores the lives, struggles, and resilience of older trans people in Chile, focusing on their sexual and reproductive rights. Through personal testimonies, interviews with experts, and a critical review of public policies, this series seeks to raise awareness about a demographic group that is often ignored and marginalized. 

Objective: The series aims to amplify the voices of the older trans population, address the barriers they face in accessing health services, and highlight the importance of sexual and reproductive rights. It also aims to educate the public, generate empathy, and promote positive changes in inclusive health policies and practices. 

The use of a participatory methodology in the creation of CUERPAS was fundamental to ensure the authenticity and relevance of the content. Actively involving older trans people in all stages of the production process—from conceptualization to filming and editing—guaranteed that their voices and experiences are represented accurately and respectfully. This collaboration was developed from anthropological action research, led by the project coordinator in conjunction with Trans Paraíso Producciones, which we detail below: 

The central theme during the creative process of the series revolved around the sexual and reproductive rights of older trans people served by OTD Chile, establishing main objectives such as making their survival experiences visible, highlighting the challenges they face when confronting a binary, unequal society, as well as promoting changes in public policies. We conducted initial research to assess the viability of the project, gathering basic information on the topic, identifying possible sources (such as activists, organizations, and health professionals), and reviewing existing material related to LGBTQ+ rights and sexual and reproductive health. We developed an interview-style documentary outline with a popular, transvestite, closer, and easy-to-understand tone. Each episode focuses on different aspects, such as personal stories that analyze public policies aimed at promoting the sexual and reproductive rights of the Chilean older trans population. 

We planned logistical aspects such as budget, production schedule, filming permits, and selection of production crew. We considered the needs of participants to ensure a safe and respectful environment. We recorded interviews, scenes, and sequences as necessary. This included filming in different locations, as well as capturing supporting images (B-roll) that contextualize the stories told. Through customized sessions, we digitized archival material, photos, and other visual resources found within the documentary series. We edited the filmed material to build the narrative of each episode. We selected the shots, assembled the scenes, and synchronized with audio and music to create an immersive environment, accurately and sensitively reflecting the experiences and voices of older trans adults. We also reviewed and corrected the content to ensure the accuracy and coherence of the narrative. We added additional visual and sound elements to enrich the content and improve the viewer experience. It is worth noting that the soundtrack that begins each chapter was developed by a Mapuche trans person who donated their work to the project. 

Documentary Series Project and Photo Book that represents the Sexual and Reproductive Rights of the Older Transgender Population in Chile 

Synopsis: “Cuerpas” is a documentary series that explores the lives, struggles, and resilience of older trans people in Chile, focusing on their sexual and reproductive rights. Through personal testimonies, interviews with experts, and a critical review of public policies, this series seeks to raise awareness about a demographic group that is often ignored and marginalized. 

Objective: The series aims to amplify the voices of the older trans population, address the barriers they face in accessing health services, and highlight the importance of sexual and reproductive rights. It also aims to educate the public, generate empathy, and promote positive changes in inclusive health policies and practices. 

The use of a participatory methodology in the creation of CUERPAS was fundamental to ensure the authenticity and relevance of the content. Actively involving older trans people in all stages of the production process—from conceptualization to filming and editing—guaranteed that their voices and experiences are represented accurately and respectfully. This collaboration was developed from anthropological action research, led by the project coordinator in conjunction with Trans Paraíso Producciones, which we detail below: 

The central theme during the creative process of the series revolved around the sexual and reproductive rights of older trans people served by OTD Chile, establishing main objectives such as making their survival experiences visible, highlighting the challenges they face when confronting a binary, unequal society, as well as promoting changes in public policies. We conducted initial research to assess the viability of the project, gathering basic information on the topic, identifying possible sources (such as activists, organizations, and health professionals), and reviewing existing material related to LGBTQ+ rights and sexual and reproductive health. We developed an interview-style documentary outline with a popular, transvestite, closer, and easy-to-understand tone. Each episode focuses on different aspects, such as personal stories that analyze public policies aimed at promoting the sexual and reproductive rights of the Chilean older trans population. 

We planned logistical aspects such as budget, production schedule, filming permits, and selection of production crew. We considered the needs of participants to ensure a safe and respectful environment. We recorded interviews, scenes, and sequences as necessary. This included filming in different locations, as well as capturing supporting images (B-roll) that contextualize the stories told. Through customized sessions, we digitized archival material, photos, and other visual resources found within the documentary series. We edited the filmed material to build the narrative of each episode. We selected the shots, assembled the scenes, and synchronized with audio and music to create an immersive environment, accurately and sensitively reflecting the experiences and voices of older trans adults. We also reviewed and corrected the content to ensure the accuracy and coherence of the narrative. We added additional visual and sound elements to enrich the content and improve the viewer experience. It is worth noting that the soundtrack that begins each chapter was developed by a Mapuche trans person who donated their work to the project.