Detransition DANGERS | Must Know Before Transition

The decision to transition genders and live as one's authentic self is deeply personal. For some, the transition process involves medical treatments like hormone therapy or various surgeries to transform their physical appearance. 

However, a small percentage of individuals who begin transitioning eventually decide to detransition back to their original gender identity.

Detransitioning is complex, with people facing scrutiny from others regardless of their decision. By understanding the realities of detransition, we can create a more compassionate society that supports people through their own unique journeys. 

This article explores the topic of detransition dangers, including the reasons people detransition, the statistics behind it, the consequences they may face, and why access to transgender healthcare remains vital.

 

What is Detransitioning?

Detransitioning refers to the process of reverting a gender transition. This involves a transgender individual who has transitioned from their birth sex to the opposite sex, either partially or completely, deciding to identify with their original gender again.

Detransitioners may have undergone some medical procedures like hormone therapy or various surgeries to change their physical appearance to match their desired gender.

But at some point, they decide to stop transitioning and go back to living as their birth sex.

 

Why Do People Detransition?

There are a variety of reasons someone may decide to detransition:

External Pressures

  • Pressure from parents or other family members who disagree with transitioning
  • A spouse or partner threatening to leave if they continue transitioning
  • Facing discrimination, harassment, trouble getting a job, etc. after transitioning

Physical & Mental Health Factors

  • Dissatisfaction with surgical results or botched procedures
  • Persistent gender dysphoria or mental health issues after transitioning
  • Realizing medical transition procedures did not adequately address their issues

Not Being Transgender

  • Some detransitioners realize they are not actually transgender. Their desire to transition may have stemmed from:
    • Escaping trauma like sexual abuse
    • Body dysmorphia or other image issues
    • Undiagnosed mental health disorders
    • Difficulty accepting their appearance or sexuality

 

Detransition Statistics & Data

In the largest survey on detransitioning, the 2015 U.S. Transgender Survey, only 8% of respondents reported detransitioning at some point.

Of those who detransitioned:

  • 32% did so only temporarily before ultimately re-transitioning
  • 62% reported their gender identity had not changed

This implies only around 3% of respondents detransitioned because they felt they were not transgender.

The most common reason for detransitioning was pressure from others, including:

  • 26% reported pressure from parents
  • 18% reported pressure from other family members
  • 29% reported pressure from a spouse or partner

Nearly a third reported harassment, discrimination, or trouble getting a job influenced their decision to detransition.

Consequences of Detransitioning

The decision to detransition does not come without consequences, both physically and mentally:

  • Stopping hormone therapy can result in unwanted physical changes
  • Surgeries like mastectomies, breast implants, or genital procedures may leave permanent changes
  • Reversal surgeries can be costly, risky, and not completely effective
  • Significant mental distress may occur after detransitioning, especially if pressured
  • There may be feelings of regret, shame, depression, anxiety, isolation, etc.

Access to Transgender Healthcare

Stories of detransition are sometimes used to argue against allowing access to transition-related care, especially for youth. However, medical consensus affirms that transition-related care is medically necessary for many transgender individuals.

While irreversible procedures like genital surgery should be approached carefully, especially for youth, it is vital to not restrict access to essential psychological, social, and medical transition support. Doing so puts lives at risk.

Being True to One's Self

Transitioning is a deeply personal journey. Though influenced by external factors, ultimately the decision must come from within.

Facing backlash from unsupportive friends and family can challenge that journey. But living authentically, being true to one's self, is crucial for mental health.

With open minds, compassion, and support for all people on their own path, individuals can feel empowered to make the right decisions for themselves regarding transition. And if detransitioning feels right, they must have the freedom to do so without judgment.


Detransition DANGERS: Summary

In conclusion, detransitioning is a complex and often stigmatized topic, with many individuals facing scrutiny and judgment for their decision. However, it is important to recognize that detransitioning is a personal journey and that individuals have the right to make decisions that are true to themselves.

The reasons for detransitioning can be diverse, including external pressures, physical and mental health factors, and realization that one is not actually transgender.

It is important to acknowledge that detransitioning can have significant consequences, both physically and mentally, and that individuals may experience feelings of regret, shame, depression, anxiety, and isolation.

Despite these challenges, it is crucial to provide access to transgender healthcare, including psychological, social, and medical support. This is especially important for youth, as it is vital to ensure that they have the necessary tools and resources to make informed decisions about their transition.

Ultimately, detransitioning is a personal journey that should be approached with compassion and understanding. By recognizing the complexities of this topic and providing support for all individuals on their own path, we can create a more inclusive and accepting society for all.