The Transformation of Transsexual Individuals

Abstract

The traditional binary classification of gender is repeatedly challenged throughout history with the presence of transgenders. Under the umbrella of transgenderism is transsexualism which pertains to individuals who identify with or desire to become the opposite sex. Transsexualism or Gender Dysphoria is classified as a medical condition under ICD 10 and DSM-5. The proposed treatment is sex reassignment that includes all treatments carried out to adapt to the desired sex. Sex reassignment involves a multidisciplinary approach wherein the psychiatrist or mental health practitioner, endocrinologist and surgeon play active roles. Certain legal and ethical issues exist in the treatment of transsexualism. This article provides a review of psychological, medical and surgical issues in the evaluation and treatment of Transgender individuals, with an Asian perspective, and in the context of an actual case.

Prevalence and Factors Associated With Gender-Affirming Surgery Among Transgender Women & Transgender Men in a Community-Based Clinic in Metro Manila, Philippines: A Retrospective Study

“…18,32 Furthermore, in our study, patients demonstrated higher proportions of opting for breast surgery than genital or laryngeal surgeries. These findings are consistent with previous studies done locally, 33 and elsewhere, 34,35 which reported that pursuing and opting for breast surgery was consistently more prevalent than genital or laryngeal surgeries. We hypothesize several reasons that may explain our findings.…”

“…10 In addition, costs were also determined as a barrier to genital surgery with transgender people in the country prioritizing breast surgery and laryngeal trimming, which are more affordable than genital procedures. 33 Secondly, a previous study has suggested that breast surgery may be deemed more valuable for the external presentation of one's gender identity as it is seemingly more evident compared with genitalia. 35 In a cohort study among transmasculine individuals, 94% of participants regarded breast surgery with high importance.…”

Psycho-social and Spiritual Backgrounds, Experiences, and Needs as a Transsexual: A Qualitative Study within Persatuan Insaf Pahang

“…Having a feminine name is universal among male-to-female transsexuals. 7,8,[12][13][14] Total absence of sexual attraction and arousal towards women in this study was consistent with previous reports; universally, the transsexuals found males to be sexually appealing instead. 9,15 Identical to previous descriptions, sexual fantasies of having intercourse with a male partner were also necessary for a husband-and-wife sexual relationship, as mentioned in a previous study.…”

Prevalence of and factors associated with the use of gender-affirming hormonal therapy outside the reference regimen among transgender people in a community-led clinic in Metro Manila, Philippines: a retrospective cross-sectional study

“…Second, no hormones are approved for GAHT in the Philippines. 16 Anecdotally and in other studies, trans people get their hormones from unregulated sources, such as unlicensed providers, 8 26 37 abroad, 11 16 online, 8 11 26 37 38 grey market 37 and peers. 8 11 26 33 37 Many TW use OCPs despite being not recommended not only because these are ineffective for achieving recommended serum hormonal concentrations but also because these contain ethinyl oestradiol, putting trans people at heightened risk for cardiovascular issues.…”