Knowra Gender-affirming care Gender-affirming care Social, psychological, medical, or legal support that recognizes and supports a person's gender identity. Its forms vary with individual needs, age, health, and local laws.
Social transition : Changes in how a person presents or is recognized socially, such as using a different name, pronouns, or clothing. Names and pronouns are common forms of support that do not require medical treatment.
Gender identity : A person's internal sense of their gender, which may or may not align with sex assigned at birth. Care affirms the person's own understanding of gender rather than imposing an identity.
Conversion therapy : Practices that attempt to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity. It contrasts with care that supports rather than tries to alter a person's identity.
Minority stress : Chronic stress caused by stigma, discrimination, and other adverse conditions affecting marginalized groups. Affirming support may reduce some stressors, while stigma can undermine well-being.
Evidence-based medicine : Clinical decision-making that integrates research evidence, professional expertise, and patient values. Care recommendations depend on evidence whose quality and applicability continue to be assessed.
Gender therapy : Psychological support addressing gender identity, distress, relationships, or decisions about care. Therapy can provide support without presuming a particular identity or treatment outcome.
Gender dysphoria : Clinically significant distress that may arise from incongruence between experienced gender and assigned sex or related characteristics. Some people seek care to alleviate dysphoria, while many seek support without a diagnosis.
Watchful waiting : A clinical approach that monitors a condition over time before initiating an intervention. Debates about delaying intervention for gender-related care often invoke this approach.
Health equity : The principle that everyone should have a fair opportunity to attain their highest level of health. Unequal access to affirming services is a health-equity concern.
Puberty blockers : Medicines that temporarily suppress the hormonal changes of puberty. Their use for adolescents raises questions about indications, benefits, risks, and evidence.
Show all 28