Transsexual

Definition

A transsexual is an individual who has undergone medical procedures to transition from their assigned sex at birth to their identified gender. This process often includes hormone therapy and may involve surgeries.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Transsexuals often undergo hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to align their physical characteristics with their gender identity.
2. Common medications for male-to-female transsexuals include estrogens, anti-androgens, and sometimes progestogens.
3. Female-to-male transsexuals typically use testosterone as the primary hormone for transitioning.
4. Medical care for transsexual individuals should be managed by a multidisciplinary team including endocrinologists, surgeons, and mental health professionals.
5. Monitoring for potential side effects of hormone therapy is critical, such as cardiovascular risks in estrogen therapy or liver function in testosterone therapy.

Review Questions

• What are the primary hormones used in male-to-female and female-to-male transitions?
• Why is it important to have a multidisciplinary team manage the healthcare of transsexual individuals?
• What are some potential side effects of hormone replacement therapy that need monitoring?

Related terms

Transgender: An umbrella term for people whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): A treatment involving the administration of hormones to align an individual's physical traits with their gender identity.

Gender Dysphoria: A condition where there is a conflict between a person's physical or assigned gender and the gender with which they identify.