If your child does not identify themselves with the gender they are born with, they are referred to as a transgender. The process of changing from one gender to the other is called transitioning. Transitioning does not necessarily mean surgery. It may come in many forms and steps.
Social transition
Transitioning often start with changing one’s way of presenting themselves to the world. Your child may want to wear clothes and hair styles associated with their true gender. After that, they may want a different name and pronoun. Most of the times, these changes happen at home first. With your support, your child may be able to live full-time in their true gender identity eventually.
Medical transition
Puberty is a hard time for transgender kids. This is when the body release hormones, result in physical changes which are upsetting for your child. You may talk to a doctor to get your child medication (in the form of injections or implants) to stop the body from doing so. This way, your child’s body will not go through common changes during puberty such as growing facial hair and breasts or voice changes. However, as soon as your child stop the medication, the changes will happen. The hormones blockers are generally safe and have been used on children who go through puberty too soon.
Cross-sex hormones
If your child wants their body to change in the way of the gender they identify with, they can take estrogen or testosterone at gradually higher amounts. Your child may need to take the hormone for life. The downside is that doctors are not sure how the treatment affects one’s health in the long run. The only thing they can be certain is that cross-sex hormones will make it hard for your child to conceive. Your child may need to freeze their sperms or eggs before they start the treatment. It’s advisable to talk with your child’s doctor carefully about all the risks involved and how to manage them.
Surgery
Surgery is probably the biggest step in transitioning. If your child has gone through puberty, they may want to remove a sexual organ or adjust their facial features and their voice. Most transgender teens and older want to have their genitals corrected to match their true self. Although it is recommended to wait until the child is 18 years old, doctors may consider performing the surgery earlier depending on each individual.
You might also want to read:
- My Kid Is A Transgender, So What?
- Facts about Transgender Children Parents Need to Know
- Teaching Your Child about Homosexuality
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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