Medical detransition following transgender identity reaffirmation: two case reports
Pablo Expósito-Campos
A D * , Marcelino Gómez-Balaguer A B , Felipe Hurtado-Murillo A C , Rosa M. García-Moreno A B and Carlos Morillas-Ariño A B
A Gender Identity Unit, Dr. Peset University Hospital, Avenida Gaspar Aguilar 90, 46017 Valencia, Valencian Community, Spain.
B Endocrinology Service, Dr. Peset University Hospital, Avenida Gaspar Aguilar 90, 46017 Valencia, Valencian Community, Spain.
C Sexual and Reproductive Health Unit, Dr. Peset University Hospital, Avenida Gaspar Aguilar 90, 46017 Valencia, Valencian Community, Spain.
D Department of Clinical and Health Psychology and Research Methods, University of the Basque Country, Tolosa Hiribidea 70, 20018 Donostia-San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa, Spain.
Sexual Health 18(6) 498-501 https://doi.org/10.1071/SH21089
Submitted: 4 May 2021 Accepted: 12 October 2021 Published: 10 December 2021
© 2021 The Author(s) (or their employer(s)). Published by CSIRO Publishing
Abstract
Background: Recently, increased social and scientific attention has been paid to gender detransition, a phenomenon in which individuals discontinue gender-affirming medical interventions (GAMI) aimed at alleviating gender dysphoria (GD). Yet, clinical knowledge of detransitioners and their experiences is still scarce. Case reports published in the literature suggest that both internal and external factors may influence this decision.
Methods: Two transgender individuals treated for GD at a gender identity unit presented with a desire to discontinue GAMI. A description of their clinical evolution is presented.
Results: Increased body satisfaction, self-esteem, self-acceptance, and self-empowerment with respect to their transgender identity were mentioned by the patients as reasons for discontinuing gender-affirming treatments. Coinciding factors included reduced GD, positive changes in social environments, better interpersonal functioning, and higher levels of psychological well-being in general.
Conclusions: Gender detransition is an under-researched phenomenon. These cases highlight the need for a more nuanced approach to gender-related clinical presentations, which involves providing individuals the opportunity to work on their social ecosystems and explore alternative options to manage GD before initiating GAMI.
Keywords: detransitioners, gender detransition, gender dysphoria, gender identity, gender-related distress, gender-affirming medical interventions, psychosocial resources, transgender.
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