Research Study for Young Transgender Women and Trans Femmes
Researchers at the University of California Los Angeles, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, and Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago are testing a new app to promote sexual health.
Fast Facts
Ages 16-29
Transgender Women and Trans Femmes
Compensation Provided
Conducted Remotely
Study Background
Researchers at UCLA, CHLA, and LCH are conducting a research study to promote sexual health and well-being among 16-29 year olds who identify as trans women or trans femme (e.g. non-binary, gender fluid, demigirl, two-spirit, etc.).
Findings from this virtual research study will help address the challenges to promoting sexual health among young transgender women. This study involves testing a mobile app designed by trans women to reduce sexual risk behavior which drives HIV infection.
All study activities occur virtually.
If you’re eligible and HIV negative, we will randomly assign you, like a flip of a coin, to either using the LifeSkills Mobile app or receiving HIV prevention information. If you are not randomized to receive the LifeSkills Mobile app, you will still get access to it at the end of the study. We will ask you to complete an online survey and an at-home HIV test kit every 6 months for up to 1 ½ years.
If you’re eligible and have recently been diagnosed with HIV, you’ll receive access to the LifeSkills Mobile Plus App for 6 months. We will ask you to complete an online survey and obtain a small blood sample with a special device that sticks to your upper arm every 6 months for up to 1 year (3 times).
Contribute to trans-affirming sexual health research and join our paid study!
This study was approved by Lurie Children’s IRB #2021-4086, MPIs; L. Kuhns, M. Mimiaga, M. Belzer.
Study Background
Researchers at UCLA, CHLA, and LCH are conducting a research study to promote sexual health and well-being among 16-29 year olds who identify as trans women or trans femme (e.g. non-binary, gender fluid, demigirl, two-spirit, etc.).
Findings from this virtual research study will help address the challenges to sexual health among young transgender women. This study involves testing a mobile app designed by trans women to reduce sexual risk behavior which drives HIV infection.
All study activities occur virtually.
If you’re eligible and HIV negative, we will randomly assign you, like a flip of a coin, to either using the LifeSkills Mobile app or receiving HIV prevention information. If you are not randomized to receive the LifeSkills Mobile app, you will still get access to it at the end of the study. We will ask you to complete an online survey and an at-home HIV test kit every 6 months for up to 1 ½ years.
If you’re eligible and have recently been diagnosed with HIV, you’ll receive access to the LifeSkills Mobile Plus App for 6 months. We will ask you to complete an online survey and obtain a small blood sample with a special device that sticks to your upper arm every 6 months for up to 1 year (3 times).
Contribute to trans-affirming sexual health research and join our paid study!
This study was approved by Lurie Children’s IRB #2021-4086, MPIs; L. Kuhns, M. Mimiaga, M. Belzer.
To achieve these goals, the study will collect menstrual blood samples from participants using a provided menstrual cup, while tracking pad and tampon usage throughout the menstrual cycle. Participants with both heavy and normal menstrual bleeding are needed to compare the two groups effectively. The study will be conducted over the course of one menstrual period, with participants attending multiple in-person visits at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU). Ultimately, the findings from this study could provide a better understanding of the biological mechanisms behind heavy periods and lead to more effective treatments for those who experience them.
Join our compensated study!
Additional Information
The purpose of this research study is to reduce sexual risk behavior among transgender women, through the use of a mobile app.
You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria:
Key Criteria:
- Between 16-29
- Identify as a transgender woman or trans femme (non-binary, gender fluid, demigirl, two-spirit, etc.)
- HIV negative, unknown HIV status, or recently diagnosed with HIV
- Lifetime history of unprotected sex OR anal or vaginal sex in the past 12 months
Once enrolled, this study involves:
- Completing a virtual baseline assessment (survey and at-home HIV test or small blood sample from upper arm)
- Accessing the mobile app for six months
- Attending virtual follow-up visits every six months for up to 1 ½ years
Payment is provided up to $175 for your time.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.