Anne Wæhre

• Davidsen, Linda; Diseth, Trond Haaken; Jessen, Reidar Schei; Mediå, Line Merete; Nyquist, Cecilie Bjertness & Stenberg, Nina [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2026). “It’s Like a Chain Reaction of Discomfort”: A Phenomenological Qualitative Study on the Intersection of Autism and Gender Incongruence in Adolescents. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. ISSN 0162-3257. doi: 10.1007/s10803-026-07486-y. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Purpose An overrepresentation of autism spectrum diagnoses (ASD) and autistic traits have been reported among people with gender incongruence. Several quantitative and qualitative studies have highlighted the intersection of autism and gender incongruence (GI). However, we have little knowledge on lived experiences of adolescents experiencing ASD and GI. The study aimed to shed light on lived experience of gender incongruence from the perspective of autistic adolescents. The analysis was guided by the following research question: How do adolescents with ASD and GI experience their bodies and gender in everyday life, and how do they make meaning of the intersection of autism and GI in everyday living? Methods This study is based on semi-structured interview guide alongside life-mode interviews of adolescents experiencing both ASD and GI. We adopted reflexive thematic analysis with phenomenology as the theoretical backdrop. Results The analysis concluded with three overarching meta-themes; “The emergence of the mismatch of gender identity and body in autistic adolescents”, “The hard work of everyday routines – working all day and all night”, and “Experiences of Bodily Estrangement - A Chain Reaction of Discomfort”. Conclusion The findings contribute to the existing literature by emphasising how sensory sensitivities and gender identity distress intensify each other and how the transition from child to adolescence, and the body, is perceived. Results indicate tailored clinical implications for adolescents experiencing ASD and GI. Clinicians should consider multidisciplinary collaboration, individualised and flexible interventions that address both sensory regulation and gender-related support to improve quality of care for adolescents with ASD and GI.

• Jessen, Reidar Schei; Wæhre, Anne; David, Linda W.; Stänicke, Line Indrevoll & Stänicke, Erik (2025). “It was actually my family and friends who noticed that my voice changed”: An interview study on the experiences of transgender and non-binary youth and young adults three years into medical treatment. International Journal of Transgenderism. ISSN 2689-5269. p. 1–15. doi: 10.1080/26895269.2025.2478498. Full text in Research Archive
• Jessen, Reidar Schei; Wæhre, Anne; David, Linda W.; Stänicke, Line Indrevoll & Stänicke, Erik (2025). Finding Oneself in the Gazes of Others: An Exploration of Subjective Experiences of Gender Among Young Binary Transgender Men. Studies in Gender and Sexuality. ISSN 1524-0657. 26(1), p. 52–69. doi: 10.1080/15240657.2025.2453288. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  This study explores gender incongruence in young binary transgender men by engaging with historical and recent psychoanalytic theory on transgender identity. Four life-mode interviews were conducted with binary transgender youth assigned female at birth who had recently been referred to medical treatment for gender incongruence. Data were analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). We developed three major themes: (1) relating to the past—challenging experiences of being ostracized and different from peers, which have been transformed after learning about transgenderism and gender-affirming care, (2) gazes on oneself—the participants’ sense of self emerges from the gazes on themselves from the outside that have been internalized as a male identity on the inside, and (3) gender incongruence—the participants are struggling to unify conflicting gazes on themselves from the outside with the gazes on themselves from the inside, which leads to an estranged relation to their bodies and feelings of shame. We suggest that gender incongruence in young binary transgender men arises when the gazes from the inside and the outside are not sufficiently reconciled. The clinical task is to help young transgender men with their negotiations of gender within their concrete everyday life experiences.

• Sundhagen, Henriette Pisani; Wæhre, Anne & Tønseth, Kim Alexander (2024). Metoidioplasty in Norway: A 13-year Experience from a National Center. Plastic and reconstructive surgery. Global open. 12(11), p. e6307–e6307. doi: 10.1097/GOX.0000000000006307. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Genital surgery is often considered the final step in surgical gender-affirming treatment. Metoidioplasty is a variant where the enlarged clitoris is lengthened and straightened. The technique has several advantages but is not without complications. We evaluated the surgical outcomes after metoidioplasty from our national center from 2007 to 2020. Methods: All patients who had undergone the metoidioplasty procedure at Oslo University Hospital from January 1, 2007, to December 31, 2020, were identified by the Local Quality Register of Gender Incongruence. Demographic, clinical, and surgical variables were recorded. Statistical analysis was carried out with SPSS. Results: A total of 84 patients were identified. The median age at the time of surgery was 27.5 years. Of 84 patients, 48 (57.1%) experienced some kind of complication after the surgery, with an average of 1.7 complications. Complications related to the urethroplasty were the most common, with strictures occurring in 19 (22.6%) patients and urethral fistulas occurring in 11 (13.1%) patients. Forty-one patients (48.8%) needed 1 or more secondary procedures. After the management of strictures and fistulas, a secondary testis implant correction was the most frequent revision procedure performed in 38.1% (32) of patients. With increasing body mass index, the risk of complications and of undergoing secondary procedures also increased significantly (P = 0.045 and 0.019, respectively). Conclusions: Metoidioplasty is an operation with a relatively high complication rate, mainly related to urethroplasty. There is an urgent need for future research with a focus on quality of life and long-term follow-up.

• Mediå, Line Merete; Fauske, Lena; Sigurdardottir, Solrun; Feragen, Kristin Judith Billaud & Wæhre, Anne (2024). Differences of sex development and surgical decisions: focus group interviews with health care professionals in Norway. Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine. 12(1), p. 1–19. doi: 10.1080/21642850.2024.2371134. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Differences of Sex Development (DSD) are congenital conditions where the chromosomal, gonadal and anatomical sex characteristics do not strictly belong to male or female categories, or that belong to both at the same time. Surgical interventions for individuals with DSD remain controversial, among affected individuals, caregivers, and health-care providers. A lack of evidence in support of, for deferring, or for avoiding surgery complicates the decision-making process. This study explores Norwegian health-care professionals’ (HCPs) perspectives on decision-making in DSD-related surgeries and the dilemmas they are facing in this process. Methods: Focus group interviews with 14 HCPs integrated into or collaborating with multidisciplinary DSD teams were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Two overarching dilemmas shed light on the intricate considerations and challenges that HCPs encounter when guiding affected individuals and caregivers through surgical decision-making processes in the context of DSD. The first theme describes how shared decision-making was found to be influenced by fear of stigma and balancing the interplay between concepts of normality, personal experiences and external expectations when navigating the child’s and caregivers’ needs. The second theme illuminated dilemmas due to a lack of evidence-based practice. The core concepts within each theme were the dilemmas health-care professionals face during consultations with caregivers and affected individuals. Conclusion: HCPs were aware of the controversies with DSD-related surgeries. However, they struggled to reconcile knowledge with parents’ wishes for surgery and faced dilemmas making decisions in the best interests of the child. This study draws attention to the benefits of increased knowledge on the consequences of performing or withholding surgery as well as incorporating tools enabling shared decision-making between HCPs and affected individuals/caregivers.

• Nyquist, Cecilie Bjertness; Torgersen, Leila; David, Linda W.; Diseth, Trond Haaken; Magnus, Per Minor & Biele, Guido [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2024). Population-adjusted numbers, demographics and mental health among children and adolescents referred to the Norwegian National Center for Gender Incongruence over two decades. European Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. ISSN 1018-8827. doi: 10.1007/s00787-024-02508-5. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Over the last decade, there has been a sharp increase in young people seeking medical treatment for gender dysphoria/gender incongruence (GD/GI). The aims of this study were to calculate yearly population-adjusted numbers of children and adolescents referred to the Norwegian National Center for Gender Incongruence (NCGI) at Oslo University Hospital (OUS) from 2000 to 2022; to describe the demographic characteristics and prevalence of psychiatric diagnoses, self-harm and suicide attempts among the referred from 2000 to 2020; and to investigate time trends. The study used data from the Gender Incongruence Registry for Children and Adolescents (GIRCA) in Norway. All persons under 18 years (n = 1258) referred to the NCGI between 2000 and 2020 were included: 68.4% assigned female gender at birth (AFAB) and 31.6% assigned male gender at birth (AMAB). We found a sharp increase in referrals to the NCGI favouring AFAB over AMAB. Nearly two in three (64.5%) had one or more registered psychiatric diagnoses. Self-harm was registered among 35.5%, and 12.7% had attempted suicide. Registered psychiatric diagnoses were significantly (p ≤ 0.001) more prevalent among AFAB (67.8%) than AMAB (57.4%). The number of registered diagnoses per person decreased significantly over time, with an average reduction of 0.02 diagnoses per person per year. Although there was a downward time trend in registered diagnoses per person, the total mental health burden among children and adolescents with GI emphasizes the need for a holistic approach.

• Nyquist, Cecilie Bjertness; Torgersen, Leila; David, Linda W.; Diseth, Trond Haaken; Gulbrandsen, Kjersti & Wæhre, Anne (2024). Treatment trajectories among children and adolescents referred to the Norwegian National Center for Gender Incongruence. Acta Paediatrica. ISSN 0803-5253. p. 1–9. doi: 10.1111/apa.17530. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Aim We aimed to describe treatment trajectories, detransition and mortality rate among children and adolescents referred to the Norwegian National Center for Gender Incongruence (NCGI). Methods The cohort included all 1258 persons under 18 years at referral to the NCGI from 2000 to 2020. Trajectories were registered until end of 2023. Results In total, 861/1258 (68.4%) were assigned female gender at birth (AFAB). Mean age at referral was 14.4 years. Puberty suppression with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRHa) was initiated among 135/1258 (10.7%), significantly more persons assigned male gender at birth (AMAB) than AFAB (p < 0.001). Gender-affirming hormonal treatment (GAHT) was initiated in 783/1258 (62.2%). The continuation rate from GnRHa to GAHT was 97%. Discharge rate from NCGI without gender-affirming medical treatment among those who attended at least one appointment, was 264/1198 (22.0%). Eighteen AFAB detransitioned after initiated GAHT, eleven due to a cessation of transgender identity. Mortality rate in the cohort until end of 2023 was 11/1258 (0.9%). Conclusion Different trajectories including medical pathways and assessments without gender-affirming treatment were observed. GAHT was initiated in 783/1258 (62.2%), including eighteen AFAB detransitioning after testosterone treatment. There was a high continuation rate from GnRHa to GAHT. Various trajectories highlights the need for long-term follow-up in care.

• Gulseth, Eirik; Urdal, Andreas Martin; Andersen, Marit Helen; Falk, Ragnhild Sørum; Aksnes, Gunnar & Emblem, Ragnhild [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2024). Mental health and health-related quality of life in adolescents surgically treated for hypospadias in childhood. Journal of Pediatric Urology. ISSN 1477-5131. doi: 10.1016/j.jpurol.2024.09.031. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background There is limited research and conflicting results on the mental health and health-related quality of life of individuals surgically treated for hypospadias in childhood. Furthermore, the significance of patient-reported outcomes (PRO) in hypospadias is growing. More research is necessary on these topics, particularly in adolescents. Objective We aimed to compare mental health, health-related quality of life, body satisfaction, self-esteem, penile appearance, and sexual function outcomes in 16-year-old adolescents who had surgery for hypospadias in childhood with a healthy comparison group. Study design The study involved 16-year-old adolescents who had surgery for hypospadias in one Norwegian hospital. An age-matched comparison group of healthy adolescents was previously recruited. The study assessed self-reported outcomes on mental health using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, health-related quality of life using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory, body satisfaction and self-esteem using the Self-Perception Profile for Adolescents, and genital perception and sexual function using the Pediatric Penile Perception Score and a non-validated structured interview. Results In total, 117 adolescents operated for hypospadias and 61 healthy adolescents were included. The outcomes for mental health and health-related quality of life were not statistically different between groups. However, 18 (16%) hypospadias patients were classified as cases/borderline on mental health outcomes, compared to 2 (3%) in the comparison group (p = 0.01). Patients classified as cases/borderline on mental health reported lower health-related quality of life, self-esteem, and more stressful life events. Self-reported penile appearance and sexual function were comparable between groups, however the proximal hypospadias group displayed lower satisfaction. Discussion Although the present study had generally positive outcomes, a significant finding was that a higher number of adolescents who had previously undergone hypospadias surgery during childhood were classified as cases or borderline cases with respect to mental health issues. Hypospadias surgery in childhood may pose challenges for some patients during adolescence, particularly in the proximal group. Regular monitoring by healthcare professionals is crucial in providing necessary support. A limitation is the small size of the subgroups. Conclusion Most patients report good mental health, quality of life, and self-esteem even though patients with hypospadias report more mental health issues than the comparison group. Proximal hypospadias were less satisfied with penile appearance and sexual function. However, due to the small sample size, conclusions about this group should be treated cautiously. Assessing self-reported outcomes in follow-ups is important to identify adolescents who had hypospadias surgery and are at risk for reduced mental health.

• Sundhagen, Henriette Pisani; Opheim, Ane Kristine Bøyum; Wæhre, Anne; Oliver, Nina Kristine & Tønseth, Kim Alexander (2023). Chest Wall Contouring in Transgender Men: A 20-Year Experience from a National Center. Plastic and reconstructive surgery. Global open. 11(4). doi: 10.1097/GOX.0000000000004952. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Several western countries have experienced a drastic increase of referrals to specialist gender services of transgender and gender-diverse people. Chest wall contouring is an important element in treatment of gender dysphoria. National data concerning this group have yet to be investigated. The aim of this study was to examine and evaluate the techniques and surgical outcome of chest wall contouring from the last 20 years from a single center in Norway. Methods: This study is a retrospective review of all female-to-male patients who underwent chest wall contouring surgery at Oslo University Hospital between 2000 and 2020. Statistical analysis with comparison of techniques and evaluation of development over time was examined. Results: In total, 333 patients underwent bilateral chest wall contouring, 209 (62.8%) with inframammary incision with free nipple graft (IM), and 124 (37.2%) with periareolar technique (PA). In 20 years, the average age decreased from 31 (19–68) to 24.9 years (17–61). Average body mass index was significantly lower in the PA-group than in the IM-group. Complication rate was 20.7%, with postoperative bleeding being the most frequent (9.6%). Revision surgery was required in 24.9% of the cases; periareolar technique required significantly more procedures. Conclusions: The number of patients referred and operated on has increased drastically over a 20-year period. When comparing the techniques, the outcome concerning complications and revisions is at an acceptable level. Postoperative bleeding and revision surgery occur more often with the periareolar technique. There remains a knowledge gap concerning quality of life and satisfaction after surgery within this patient group.

• Mediå, Line Merete; Sigurdardottir, Solrun; Fauske, Lena & Wæhre, Anne (2023). Understanding sexual health concerns among adolescents and young adults with differences of sex development: a qualitative study. International Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-being. ISSN 1748-2623. 18(1), p. 1–12. doi: 10.1080/17482631.2023.2204635. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Purpose Differences of sex development (DSD) are congenital conditions that involve variations in individuals’ sex chromosomes, genes, external and/or internal genitalia, hormones, and/or secondary sex characteristics. This study sought to elucidate the experiences of adolescents and young adults living with DSD by focusing on their experiences of intimacy and sexual health. Methods An interpretative phenomenological research design was adopted. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 11 Norwegian adolescents and young adults aged 16–26 years who had five different DSD conditions. The interview findings were analysed by means of a reflexive thematic analysis. Results The participants reported feeling different, both in terms of how their body functioned and how their body looked. Lack of knowledge increased this feeling of differentness. Moreover, lack of everyday language with which to talk about intimacy and sexual concerns resulted in the participants feeling stigma. Anticipating stigmatization and lacking everyday language complicated the participants’ communication regarding their DSD and sexual health. Conclusions The sexual experiences of adolescents and young adults with DSD are diverse. Fear of stigmatization and lack of everyday language complicate communication with healthcare professionals and others. Understanding their unique needs is crucial to helping individuals achieve good sexual health.

• David, Linda W.; Stenberg, Nina; Diseth, Trond Haaken; Helverschou, Sissel Berge; Nyquist, Cecilie Bjertness & Øien, Roald A [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2023). Autistic Characteristics in a Nationally Representative Clinical Sample of Adolescents Seeking Medical Gender-Affirming Treatment in Norway. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. ISSN 0162-3257. doi: 10.1007/s10803-023-06181-6. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Purpose - Several studies have reported on the intersection of autism and gender incongruence (GI) in clinical populations. This study aims to investigate autistic characteristics and registered autism spectrum diagnoses (ASD) in a clinical cohort of 83 adolescents referred to the National Gender Team for Children and Adolescents in Norway during 2020.<p> <p>Methods - Parents completed the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS). Background information and registered psychiatric diagnoses were extracted from patient files.<p> <p>Results - The results showed that 25% of the participants scored within the clinical range on the SRS: 27.4% of adolescents who were assigned female at birth (AFAB) and 19.0% of adolescents who were assigned male at birth (AMAB). AFAB had significantly higher scores on SRS Total Scale and the Social Motivation and Autistic Mannerisms subscales compared to the female norm group. AMAB had higher scores on the Social Motivation subscale and lower scores on the Social Awareness subscale, compared to the male norm population. Information from patient files revealed that 67.5% had one or more registered psychiatric diagnosis. 9.6% had received an ASD diagnosis, all AFAB. 18.1% had received an attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnosis. The most common psychiatric diagnoses were depression (25.3%) and anxiety disorders (18.1%). Further, 44.6% had a history of self-harm, and 15.7% had a history of a suicide attempt.<p> <p>Conclusion - The results showed an overrepresentation of ASD diagnoses and autistic characteristics measured by SRS for AFAB. There was an overrepresentation of psychiatric diagnoses for both the AFAB and the AMAB group in this study sample. Implications for treatment and future research are discussed.

• Gulseth, Eirik; Urdal, Andreas Martin; Andersen, Marit Helen; Falk, Ragnhild Sørum; Aksnes, Gunnar & Emblem, Ragnhild [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2023). Sexual well-being and penile appearance in adolescents operated for distal hypospadias in childhood. Journal of Pediatric Urology. ISSN 1477-5131. 19(3), p. 293.el–293.e8. doi: 10.1016/j.jpurol.2023.03.001. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background The importance of patient-reported outcomes (PRO) in hypospadias is increasing. However, more knowledge is needed concerning genital self-perception on appearance and function in adolescents. The complication rates for distal hypospadias is different from that for severe hypospadias, and expected outcomes related to sexual well-being and cosmetics may also differ. Objective To investigate 16-year-olds’ self-reported outcomes on penile appearance, sexual well-being, and voiding function in distal hypospadias, and compare with that of healthy male adolescents and a surgeon's view. Study design Sixteen-year-old patients operated for distal hypospadias were included in this cross-sectional study and compared to a group of healthy adolescents. The assessment tools included the adolescents’ self-perception on genital appearance and function measured by Pediatric Penile Perception Score (PPPS) and their responses to a structured interview. We also included information on clinical data from the electronic medical records, together with a physical examination and an uroflowmetry. Results Seventy patients and 61 healthy adolescents participated. Patients and the comparison group reported no differences on sexual well-being. The patients were satisfied with penile appearance, however their overall PPPS was significantly lower (8.9), compared to the comparison group (9.6, p = 0.03). Thirty-nine percent of patients had complications leading to re-interventions and reported lower scores on genital self-perception on appearance and function compared to those who had not re-interventions. Voiding function was normal. The surgeon's score on appearance was comparable to the patients’ score. Discussion A key finding in our study is the patients’ high satisfaction on sexual well-being, which was similar to healthy adolescents. The patients were also satisfied with penile appearance but scored significantly lower than the comparison group. Surgeons and patients had comparable scores on appearance; however, they seemed to emphasize different aspects of appearance. Our results on penile appearance and sexual well-being are comparable to those of other studies on distal hypospadias. In our study, re-interventions were associated with more negative genital self-perception on appearance and function, similar to findings in other studies. Conclusion Our results show overall positive satisfaction on sexual well-being, voiding function and penile appearance despite less satisfaction on penile appearance when compared with the comparison group. Satisfaction was reported to be good also in patients experiencing re-interventions.

• Mediå, Line Merete; Fauske, Lena; Feragen, Kristin Judith Billaud; Sigurdardottir, Solrun; Heggeli, Charlotte & Wæhre, Anne (2022). ‘It was Supposed to be a Secret’: a study of disclosure and stigma as experienced by adults with differences of sex development. Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine. 10(1), p. 579–595. doi: 10.1080/21642850.2022.2102018. Full text in Research Archive
• Wæhre, Anne; Heggeli, Charlotte; Hald, Kirsten; Myhre, Anne Grethe & Diseth, Trond Haaken (2022). A 15–20-year follow-up of mental health, psychosocial functioning and quality of life in a single center sample of individuals with differences in sex development. Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine. 10(1), p. 837–854. doi: 10.1080/21642850.2022.2116329. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: The aim of the study was to present metal health, psychosocial functioning and quality of life (QoL) of children and adolescents with a difference in sex development (DSD) from their first visit in the newly established multidisciplinary team in 2002–2004 in Norway. A secondary aim was to explore mental health, psychosocial functioning and QoL in the same cohort patient’s as for today and finally explore any childhood predictors for these outcomes in adulthood. Methods: The first part of the study took place in 2002–2004 in a mixed cohort of children and adolescents born with a DSD in 1982–2002, compared to a healthy comparison group. This part involved semi-structured interviews and self-reported and proxy-reported questionnaires. The second part of the study is a longitudinal study of the same participants 15–20 years later (2018–2020). Results: The participants at baseline of the study consisted of 33 patients; 24 assigned females (congenital adrenal hyperplasia, androgen insensitivity syndrome, gonadal dysgenesis and ovotesticular DSD) and nine assigned males; all with a hypospadias diagnosis. Significant differences were found for behavioral and emotional problems between groups, 46, XX females with significant higher total scores on YSR (49.43 + 24.17, p  = .047); 46, XY females (21.00 + 12.04, p  = .032); and higher internalizing problems scores (YSR) in 46, XX females (16.57 + 9.74), compared with the 46, XY females (5.60 + 5.32, p = .047). A positive association between QoL of the participants in adulthood and PedsQL’ social function (r = .657, p = .020) and psychosocial function in childhood (r = .596, p = .041) was found. Conclusions: In summary, this study demonstrated that adolescents assigned females with DSD might have more psychiatric problems and a poorer degree of psychosocial functioning compared to a healthy comparison group. As we do find an association with these problems in adolescence and later adult QoL, it is of great importance to respond to these behaviors in early life.

• Gulseth, Eirik; Urdal, Andreas Martin; Andersen, Marit Helen; Diseth, Trond H; Aksnes, Gunnar & Emblem, Ragnhild [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2021). High satisfaction on genital self-perception and sexual function in healthy Norwegian male adolescents. Journal of Pediatric Urology. ISSN 1477-5131. 17(4), p. 555.E1–555.E8. doi: 10.1016/j.jpurol.2021.02.015. Full text in Research Archive
• Wæhre, Anne (2021). Medisinsk perspektiv på behandling av medfødt variasjon i kroppslig kjønnsutvikling og kjønnsinkongruens hos barn og unge. In Hellum, Anne & Sørlie, Anniken (Ed.), Frihet, likhet og mangfold: Kjønnsidentitet og seksuell orientering i rettslig, medisinsk og samfunnsvitenskapelig kontekst. Gyldendal Akademisk. ISSN 9788205518698. p. 200–224. Full text in Research Archive
• Jessen, Reidar Schei; Wæhre, Anne; David, Linda & Stänicke, Erik (2021). Negotiating gender in everyday life: Toward a conceptual model of gender dysphoria in adolescents. Archives of Sexual Behavior. ISSN 0004-0002. 50, p. 3489–3503. doi: 10.1007/s10508-021-02024-6. Full text in Research Archive
• Kaltiala, Riittakerttu; Bergman, Hannah; Carmichael, Polly; Graaf, Nastasja M de; Rischel, Karen Egebjerg & Frisén, Louise [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2019). Time trends in referrals to child and adolescent gender identity services: a study in four Nordic countries and in the UK. Nordic Journal of Psychiatry. ISSN 0803-9488. doi: 10.1080/08039488.2019.1667429. Full text in Research Archive
• Dhondup, Yangchen; Ueland, Thor; Dahl, Christen Peder; Askevold, Erik Tandberg; Sandanger, Øystein & Fiane, Arnt E [Show all 14 contributors for this article] (2016). Low circulating levels of mitochondrial and high levels of nuclear DNA predict mortality in chronic heart failure. Journal of Cardiac Failure. ISSN 1071-9164. 22(10), p. 823–828. doi: 10.1016/j.cardfail.2016.06.013. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and possibly nuclear DNA (nDNA) are released as danger-associated molecular patterns during cardiac stress, and may activate several innate immune receptors. The purpose of this study was to investigate the regulation of these danger-associated molecular patterns during human heart failure (HF). Methods and Results Plasma levels of mtDNA and nDNA from HF patients (n = 84) were analyzed by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and compared with controls (n = 72). Increased levels of mtDNA were found in New York Heart Association (NYHA) I-II and NYHA III-IV. There was evidence of increased nDNA in NYHA III-IV compared with controls and NYHA I-II. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed higher mortality in patients with high nDNA levels, whereas high levels of mtDNA were associated with survival. Conclusions Plasma levels of mtDNA and nDNA are elevated in human HF associated with increased and decreased mortality, respectively. This study may suggest a rationale for exploring interventions within inflammatory signaling pathways activated by nucleic acids as novel targets in treatment of HF.

• Engebretsen, Kristin V Thunheim; Lunde, Ida Gjervold; Strand, Mari Elen; Sjaastad, Ivar; Marstein, Henriette & Skrbic, Biljana [Show all 12 contributors for this article] (2013). Lumican is increased in experimental and clinical heart failure, and its production by cardiac fibroblasts is induced by mechanical and proinflammatory stimuli. The FEBS Journal. ISSN 1742-464X. 280(10), p. 2382–2398. doi: 10.1111/febs.12235. Full text in Research Archive
• Engebretsen, Kristin V Thunheim; Wæhre, Anne; BJØRNSTAD, JOHANNES; Skrbic, Biljana; Sjaastad, Ivar & Behmen, Dina [Show all 11 contributors for this article] (2013). Decorin, lumican, and their GAG chain-synthesizing enzymes are regulated in myocardial remodeling and reverse remodeling in the mouse. Journal of applied physiology. ISSN 8750-7587. 114(8), p. 988–997. doi: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00793.2012. Full text in Research Archive
• Wæhre, Anne; Vistnes, Maria; Sjaastad, Ivar; Nygård, Ståle; Husberg, Cathrine & Lunde, Ida Gjervold [Show all 14 contributors for this article] (2012). Chemokines regulate small leucine-rich proteoglycans in the extracellular matrix of the pressure-overloaded right ventricle. Journal of applied physiology. ISSN 8750-7587. 112(8), p. 1372–1382. doi: 10.1152/japplphysiol.01350.2011. Full text in Research Archive
• Wæhre, Anne; Halvorsen, Bente; Yndestad, Arne; Husberg, Cathrine; Sjaastad, Ivar & Nygård, Ståle [Show all 19 contributors for this article] (2011). Lack of Chemokine Signaling through CXCR5 Causes Increased Mortality, Ventricular Dilatation and Deranged Matrix during Cardiac Pressure Overload. PLOS ONE. 6(4), p. e18668–e18668. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0018668. Full text in Research Archive
• Vistnes, Maria; Wæhre, Anne; Nygård, Ståle; Sjaastad, Ivar; Andersson, Kristin Brevik & Husberg, Cathrine [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2010). Circulating cytokine levels in mice with heart failure are etiology dependent. Journal of applied physiology. ISSN 8750-7587. 108(5), p. 1357–1364. doi: 10.1152/japplphysiol.01084.2009. Full text in Research Archive
• Dahl, Christen Peder; Husberg, Cathrine; Gullestad, Lars; Wæhre, Anne; Damås, Jan Kristian & Vinge, Leif Erik [Show all 15 contributors for this article] (2009). Increased Production of CXCL16 in Experimental and Clinical Heart Failure: A Possible Role in Extracellular Matrix Remodeling. Circulation: Heart Failure. ISSN 1941-3289. 2(6), p. 624–632. doi: 10.1161/CIRCHEARTFAILURE.108.821074. Full text in Research Archive
• Husberg, Cathrine; Nygård, Ståle; Finsen, Alexandra; Damås, Jan Kristian; Frigessi, Arnoldo & Øie, Erik [Show all 11 contributors for this article] (2008). Cytokine expression profiling of the myocardium reveals a role for CX3CL1 (fractalkine) in heart failure. Journal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology. ISSN 0022-2828. 45, p. 261–269. doi: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2008.05.009. Full text in Research Archive

View all works in NVA

• Wæhre, Anne (2025). Letter to the Editor—Response to Banos et al. Acta Paediatrica. ISSN 0803-5253. 115(2), p. 502–503. doi: 10.1111/apa.70378. Full text in Research Archive
• Nyquist, Cecilie Bjertness; Torgersen, Leila; Davidsen, Linda; Diseth, Trond Haaken; Magnus, Per Minor & Biele, Guido [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2025). Reply to letter of concerns from Banos et al. European Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. ISSN 1018-8827. doi: 10.1007/s00787-025-02690-0. Full text in Research Archive
• Wæhre, Anne; Simonsen, Marit Maaum & Jessen, Reidar Schei (2023). Kjønnsbekreftende behandling. Store Norske Leksikon (Nettutgaven). Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  https://sml.snl.no/kj%C3%B8nnsbekreftende_behandling

• Wæhre, Anne & Schorkopf, Martina (2019). Kjønnsvariasjon, medisinsk behandling og vårt ansvar. Tidsskrift for Den norske legeforening (Tidsskriftet). ISSN 0029-2001. 139(7). doi: 10.4045/tidsskr.19.0178. Full text in Research Archive
• Engebretsen, Kristin V Thunheim; Lunde, Ida Gjervold; Wæhre, Anne; Strand, Mari Elen; Sjaastad, Ivar & Marstein, Henriette [Show all 11 contributors for this article] (2012). The collagen-organizing proteoglycan lumican is increased in experimental and clinical heart failure and its production by cardiac fibroblasts is induced by pro-inflammatory and mechanical stimuli. Full text in Research Archive
• Wæhre, Anne; Vistnes, Maria; Sjaastad, Ivar; Nygård, Ståle; Husberg, Cathrine & Lunde, Ida Gjervold [Show all 11 contributors for this article] (2011). Chemokines regulate small leucine-rich proteins in the extracellular matrix of the pressure overload right ventricle. Full text in Research Archive
• Engebretsen, Kristin V Thunheim; BJØRNSTAD, JOHANNES; Skrbic, Biljana; Marstein, Henriette; Sjaastad, Ivar & Wæhre, Anne [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2011). Correction of left ventricular pressure overload leads to altered myocardial expression of small leucine rich proteoglycans. Full text in Research Archive
• Engebretsen, Kristin V Thunheim; BJØRNSTAD, JOHANNES; Skrbic, Biljana; Marstein, Henriette; Sjaastad, Ivar & Wæhre, Anne [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2011). Endret nivå av small leucine rich proteoglycans i en musemodell som etterligner pasienter operert for aortastenose. Full text in Research Archive
• Vistnes, Maria; Wæhre, Anne; Sjaastad, Ivar; Nygård, Ståle; Husberg, Cathrine & Christensen, Geir Arve (2010). Circulating cytokines in heart failure. Full text in Research Archive
• Wæhre, Anne; Halvorsen, Bente; Yndestad, Arne; Husberg, Cathrine; Sjaastad, Ivar & Nygren, A [Show all 17 contributors for this article] (2010). The homeostatic chemokine CXCL13 and its receptor CXCR5 are important for maintaining cardiac structure by regulating proteoglycans crucial for correct collagen matrix. Hjerteforum. ISSN 0802-1465. 23(1), p. 101–101. Full text in Research Archive
• Wæhre, Anne; Halvorsen, Bente; Yndestad, Arne; Husberg, Cathrine; Sjaastad, Ivar & Nygård, Ståle [Show all 18 contributors for this article] (2009). The homeostatic chemokine cxc113 and its receptor cxcr5 are regulated in heart failure and are involved in cardiac remodeling. Circulation. ISSN 0009-7322. 120, p. S801–S801. Full text in Research Archive
• Dahl, Christen Peder; Husberg, Cathrine; Gullestad, Lars; Wæhre, Anne; Damås, Jan Kristian & Vinge, Leif Erik [Show all 15 contributors for this article] (2009). Increased production of CXCL16 in experimental and clinical heart failure; a possible role in extracellular matrix remodeling. Hjerteforum. ISSN 0802-1465. 22(2), p. 113–114. Full text in Research Archive
• Wæhre, Anne; Halvorsen, Bente; Yndestad, Arne; Husberg, Cathrine; Sjaastad, Ivar & Nygård, Ståle [Show all 18 contributors for this article] (2009). The homeostatic chemokine CXCL13 and its receptor CXCR5 are regulated in heart failure and are involved in cardiac remodelling. Full text in Research Archive
• Dahl, Christen Peder; Husberg, Cathrine; Gullestad, Lars; Wæhre, Anne; Finsen, Alexandra & Halvorsen, Bente [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2009). Increased production of CXCL16 in experimental and clinical heart failure; a possible role in extracellular matrix remodeling. European Heart Journal, Supplement. ISSN 1520-765X. 30. Full text in Research Archive
• Vistnes, Maria; Wæhre, Anne; Sjaastad, Ivar; Nygård, Ståle; Andersson, Kristin Brevik & Husberg, Cathrine [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2009). Circulating cytokine levels heart failure are etiology-dependent. Hjerteforum. ISSN 0802-1465. 22, p. 113–113. Full text in Research Archive
• Vistnes, Maria; Wæhre, Anne; Sjaastad, Ivar; Nygård, Ståle; Andersson, Kristin Brevik & Husberg, Cathrine [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2008). Cytokine profiles in the circulation of mice with heart failure are etiology-dependent. Full text in Research Archive
• Dahl, Christen Peder; Husberg, Cathrine; Gullestad, Lars; Wæhre, Anne; Finsen, Alexandra & Halvorsen, Bente [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2008). Increased production of CXCL16 in heart failure; a role in extracellular matrix remodeling. Full text in Research Archive
• Husberg, Cathrine; Nygård, Ståle; Finsen, Alexandra; Damås, JK; Frigessi, A. & Øie, EH [Show all 12 contributors for this article] (2008). Enhanced CX3CL1 (fractalkine) production in the failing myocardium may promote myocardial remodeling and dysfunction. Full text in Research Archive
• Vistnes, Maria; Wæhre, Anne; Sjaastad, Ivar; Nygård, Ståle; Andersson, Kristin Brevik & Husberg, Cathrine [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2008). Cytokine profiles in the circulation of mice with heart failure are etiology-dependent. Full text in Research Archive
• Vistnes, Maria; Wæhre, Anne; Sjaastad, Ivar; Nygård, Ståle; Andersson, Kristin Brevik & Husberg, Cathrine [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2007). Cytokine patterns in the circulation of mice with heart failure are etiology-dependent. Full text in Research Archive
• Gulseth, Eirik; Wæhre, Anne; Emblem, Ragnhild & Andersen, Marit Helen (2025). Expanded health-related quality of life in 16-year-old boys following childhood hypospadias surgery. Universitetet i Oslo. ISSN 9788234806674. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) reflects an individual's functional status and perceived well-being across physical, mental, and social dimensions. In hypospadias—a penile congenital condition affecting about 1 in 300 boys—our understanding of HRQoL, especially among adolescents, is limited. Most research has focused on isolated HRQoL aspects rather than its multidimensional nature. Hypospadias surgery is mainly carried out in early childhood. Complications are common and often require multiple surgeries. Surgery for hypospadias in early childhood can impact adolescents’ quality of life, particularly in terms of sexual well-being, body image and mental health. This thesis aims to enhance knowledge of HRQoL in 16-year-old boys who have undergone hypospadias surgery. A cross-sectional study compared self-reported HRQoL among these boys with a healthy comparison group, collecting data from electronic medical records, validated questionnaires, and structured interviews at an outpatient clinic between March 2019 and March 2021. Healthy adolescents were recruited from schools in southeastern Norway. This study highlights positive results across most of the examined variables and can conclude that the patients experience good, expanded health-related quality of life. However, some individuals face challenges. More patients were classified as having mental health issues or being at risk for mental problems than in the healthy group. Additionally, patients with proximal hypospadias report lower satisfaction with the appearance of their penis and sexual well-being. In conclusion, the findings suggest that adolescents after hypospadias surgery report positive HRQoL outcomes overall. However, the increased mental health issues and specific challenges faced by the proximal group highlight the importance of follow-up after puberty. Additionally, comprehensive HRQoL assessments could help us identify individuals at risk and improve care strategies.

• Wæhre, Anne (2012). Chemokines in cardiac remodelling and heart failure, and their role in regulation of small leucinerich proteoglycans in the extracellular matrix. Universitetet i Oslo. Full text in Research Archive

View all works in NVA