Gender-Affirming Care

Some people feel that the sex they were given at birth does not match who they are. These people may identify as transgender or gender diverse. When this difference causes distress or discomfort, it may be called gender dysphoria.  

There is care that can help, called gender-affirming care. This type of care supports people in feeling more comfortable with their gender.  

According to the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH): 

• Transgender people are those “whose gender identities and/or gender expressions are not what is typically expected for the sex to which they were assigned at birth.” 
• Gender-diverse people are those with ”gender identities and/or expressions that are different from social and cultural expectations attributed to their sex assigned at birth.” 

WPATH describes gender-affirming care as “Safe and effective pathways to achieving lasting personal comfort with [individual’s] gendered selves.” It’s meant to boost overall health, psychological well-being and self-fulfillment.

Gender-affirming care may include: 

• Regular doctor visits 
• Hormone therapy or surgery 
• Voice and communication therapy 
• Gynecological or urological care 

Some transgender and gender-diverse people may never seek medical transition, but they still deserve an experience that affirms their identity. This affirmation can come in many forms, such as social recognition, supportive relationships and access to inclusive spaces that validate their gender identity. It’s important to respect and honor an individual’s preferred identity and journey.