Detransition

Detransition
Specialty	Psychiatry, Psychology

Detransition refers to the process whereby individuals who have undergone gender transition choose to revert to their sex assigned at birth. This process can involve discontinuing hormone replacement therapy, surgical reversals, and ceasing to live and identify as their transitioned gender.

Causes

The reasons behind detransition can vary widely among individuals. Common factors include social pressure, difficulty in adjusting to the new gender role, health-related issues due to hormone treatments, and personal realizations about their gender identity. Some individuals may experience regret, which can stem from a variety of psychological, social, and cultural influences.

Process

Detransitioning can be a complex process, both medically and socially. Medically, it may involve stopping hormone treatments and, in some cases, undergoing surgery to reverse changes made during transition. Socially, it involves changes in personal identification documents, as well as potentially facing stigma from both the cisgender and transgender communities.

Psychological Impact

The psychological impact of detransitioning can be significant. Individuals may face challenges such as identity confusion, depression, and anxiety. Support from mental health professionals, family, and friends is crucial in helping individuals navigate this period.

Prevalence

Estimates of the prevalence of detransition are varied, and research in this area is still developing. Some studies suggest that a small minority of individuals who undergo gender transition later choose to detransition.

Legal and Social Considerations

Detransition raises several legal and social considerations, including the amendment of legal documents and the social implications of changing one's gender role again. Discrimination and lack of understanding can exacerbate the challenges faced by those who detransition.

See also

• Gender dysphoria
• Transgender health care
• LGBT rights