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Some people prefer to use the term transgender rather than transsexual. This is because some people find the latter term offensive.
Definition
Transsexuality is a term used to describe people who have a gender that differs from the one assigned at birth. These individuals may seek genital surgery and hormone therapy to align their bodies with their gender identities. The word is often used interchangeably with transgender.
While transgender describes the gender that a person has on their biological body, sexual orientation refers to a person’s innate preference for men or women. For example, a person who is born with male reproductive organs and XY chromosomes may be described as transgender.
The term transsexual can be offensive to some people, so it is important to ask each individual which terms they prefer. Some people also choose to not use the term if it causes offense. This can be difficult, however, because medical professionals sometimes rely on the term to categorize their patients.
Gender identity
Gender identity is a person’s internal sense of gender that may or not match their assigned sex at birth. Transgender people often seek medical changes (like hormone therapy or surgery) to help their bodies align with their gender identities. They can be masculine, feminine or a mix of both.
Transgender people can express their identities in a variety of ways, including through clothing, hair, name and pronouns, and by using facilities like washrooms that correspond with their gender. They can also use a variety of other social and physical cues, which can vary from one culture to another.
Some transgender people change their appearance, body and legal sex marker during transition, while others do not. It’s best to ask a person what terms they prefer.
Gender reassignment surgery
Gender affirming surgery (also known as sex reassignment surgery or SRS) is a treatment option for gender dysphoria. It is not an isolated intervention, but a part of a comprehensive transgender treatment plan that should include psychiatric evaluation and support, hormone therapy, and real life experiences in the gender of the person.
SRS is a surgical procedure that alters the gender-specific anatomy of the body, usually the genitals. It is recommended that people have gender affirming hormones for at least 12 months before having surgery.
Having gender affirming surgery is a big deal and may be a challenging time for some people. Research shows that most people who have gender affirming surgery are happy with their results. However, it is important to talk to your doctor if you experience any distress following surgery.
Legality
People who identify as transgender are protected under the Equality Act. This includes transgender people who have proposed, started or completed a process to change their sex. It also includes those who have a medically recognised physical transition. This means they may take hormones and have surgery to help them look the gender that matches their internal sense of sex.
Sex is a biological category that is determined by the difference in reproductive organs, sex chromosomes and hormones. But gender is a socially constructed concept that differs from person to person.
Transgender people can be gay, lesbian, bisexual or asexual. They can also be straight, but they must have a gender identity that is different from the one assigned to them at birth. It is unlawful to discriminate against someone on the grounds of their sexual orientation, but not on the basis of their gender identity.
Support
Transgender people are often overlooked and ignored by society. However, there are many resources available to help them through the transition process. These include support groups and online discussion spaces. Additionally, they can receive psychological therapy to assist them with adjusting to their gender identity.
Transsexuals may also face discrimination at work. This can be a serious issue, especially for those who are in mid-transition. They might be fearful of their coworkers’ responses, or worry about losing job experience under a previous name.
It’s important to show respect for the individual’s chosen pronouns and name. This shows that you are supportive of their gender identity. It’s also helpful to educate yourself about gender and its many definitions. Language changes rapidly, and it’s important to keep up with current terminology.