What's the evidence behind gender affirming care?
51 studies support the claim that gender transition is effective in treating gender dysphoria and can significantly improve the well-being of transgender individuals. Gender transition and associated care is associated with improved quality of life, greater relationship satisfaction, higher self-esteem and confidence, and reductions in anxiety, depression, suicidality, and substance use. By comparison, a 2018 literature review from Cornell university found 4 studies showing no or mixed results of gender transition.
Critics of gender affirming care often mention that the treatments are supported by “low quality evidence” but that phrase is a bit of a misnomer — it refers to the type of available evidence under the GRADE system. Because gender-affirming care is generally based on observational studies and not randomized controlled trials, it’s designated low-quality, as are most forms of treatment where randomized controlled trials are not available. Just 10% of medical treatments are based on “high quality” evidence. Popular treatments backed by low-quality evidence include statins for cholesterol, mammograms, radiation therapy for most cancers, and gallbladder surgery.
Leaders of groups like Genspect that promote alternative treatments like psychotherapy or gender exploratory therapy for gender dysphoria concede that they are not backed by evidence. While many alternative treatments have been attempted for gender dysphoria, none of them have the same level of evidence as affirming care and transition.
One case study of one patient exhibiting frequent crossdressing and a desire for sex reassignment surgery showed an improvement in symptoms with 2mg per day of Pimozide, an anti-psychotic medication — though the symptoms returned when the medication was titrated down to 1mg per day. However, researchers recorded the case as one of “doubtful gender dysphoria,” where a patient with intellectual disabilities was fixated on the concept of a sex change without an understanding of what that might entail. By contrast, 93 percent of studies of transition care show that trans people are helped by transitioning.
Thanks a lot, it is such a honour and privilege to be able to chat with you. You are a role model for me and countless of girls like me. Thanks for being you. Here below are few questions. I will have more...
How have the dynamics of relationships that you have with siblings, parents, relatives and partner changed?
What was the highest point of euphoria for you?
Are you conscious that you are a public figure and a role model for many?
What role does communication play in maintaining a healthy connection with your partner?
We have seen your partner quite a few times through your social media. How do they deal with social media?
Your partner appears to have changed as well. What was the switch bulb moment for them?
How do they identify themselves as?
You are the epitome of femininity; your partner is the epitome of masc. Has there been a definite change in relationship since before? A perfect reversal in every way: every day dynamics, friends circle (female groups, male groups etc)?
Have you lost any friends and family since discovering yourself? or gained some new friends?
How does it feel to be accepted by other women as one of their own?
I have more questions, but do not want to bombard you for now. Thanks a billion for being a role model. I hope am not intrusive or personal in any way, only using this opportunity to ask questions that I had. I have more, but do not want to pry. I hope you don't mind answering. You are an idol and a star. Thanks for being you.
How can we ask questions?