What Are the Pros and Cons of Going Through Medical & Surgical Gender Transition?
Dr. Z shares the psychological pros and cons of medical and surgical transition based on her experience working with thousands of trans adults. First, her strong stance: medical and surgical transition is NOT mandatory to be transgender. She's worked with people who decided it wouldn't alleviate things for them, people who benefited greatly, and people without resources. Saying someone isn't trans because they haven't transitioned is deeply inaccurate.
The cons: Potentially losing people around you—partners, family, friends. Hoping transition will alleviate dysphoria, only to find it's still there—it's not a 100% fix. Like any medical treatment, there can be side effects and consequences. Experiencing new challenges related to sexism, misogyny, and gender disparities you didn't face before.
The pros: Achieving congruency is incredibly liberating and alleviates dysphoria. Forming new, authentic relationships where people see and love you for who you truly are. Overall health improvements—physical ailments disappearing, stopping destructive coping like drinking or self-harm because you finally like your body.
Watch to find out why weighing these factors is essential before making life-altering decisions.
