Transgender Identity

Overview

This refers to people who feel the sex of their body doesn't match who they really are inside. This feeling begins early in life. It can be distressing and confusing. And often, others don't understand.

Assigned sex

What makes a person feel this way? Well, it's a conflict between their sex and their gender. These are two different things. Typically, when a baby is born, a doctor looks at the baby's genitals and says the baby is either a "boy" or a "girl." We say this is the baby's "sex." Your sex assignment shapes how you are raised and how you are viewed by society.

Gender identity

Gender is more complex. While your "sex" involves the characteristics of your body, your "gender" is how you feel inside. It's a deeply-held sense of who you are as a person. For most, this feeling is either "male" or "female." For others, neither of those choices feels exactly right.

Transgender identity

A person who is transgender feels like their assigned sex doesn't match their gender. A person with male genitals may identify as a female. A person with a female body may identify as a male. They may want to be put into a different category. Or, they may not want to be labeled at all.

Expression

People who are transgender may choose to dress or act in ways that match how they feel inside. They may seek out medical procedures to help them feel more comfortable in their own bodies. These choices are highly personal. They are different for everyone.

Conclusion

Transgender identity is a complex topic. It involves all aspects of a person's life. For help with gender identity issues, talk to your healthcare provider. You can also contact a support group. And, you can reach out to a local LGBTQ organization.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.