Gender Dysphoria
Also known as: Gender Identity Disorder
Gender dysphoria is the psychological distress from an incongruence between a person's gender identity and their sex assigned at birth. It is recognized as a medical condition requiring clinical attention when it causes significant distress or impairment. Treatment options include psychotherapy, hormone therapy, and gender-affirming surgeries.
Symptoms
Causes
- Exact cause is not fully understood
- Biological factors including prenatal hormone exposure and genetics
- Complex interplay between neurological development and hormonal influence
- Not caused by parenting style, social influence, or choice
Risk Factors
- No modifiable risk factors identified
- Distress may be worsened by social stigma and discrimination
- Co-occurring mental health conditions may develop due to minority stress
Diagnosis
- Clinical assessment by an experienced mental health professional
- DSM-5 criteria: marked incongruence for at least 6 months with distress
- Evaluation for co-occurring conditions
- Assessment is supportive and affirming
Treatment
- Psychotherapy and counseling for support and coping
- Hormone therapy (estrogen or testosterone) under medical supervision
- Puberty blockers for adolescents (reversible)
- Gender-affirming surgical procedures when desired
- Social transition support
- Treatment of co-occurring anxiety and depression
When to See a Doctor
- Gender incongruence is causing significant distress or depression
- You want to explore gender-affirming medical options
- A child or adolescent expresses persistent gender incongruence with distress
- Functioning is impaired by distress related to gender identity
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Conditions
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