Overview

Gender dysphoria is the feeling of discomfort or distress that can occur in people whose gender identity differs from their sex assigned at birth or sex-related physical characteristics.

Transgender and gender-diverse individuals may experience gender dysphoria at some point in their lives, but some feel at ease with their bodies with or without medical intervention.

The diagnosis of gender dysphoria is included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to help individuals with gender dysphoria access necessary healthcare and effective treatment. The term focuses on discomfort as the problem, rather than identity.

Symptoms of Gender Dysphoria

Gender dysphoria may cause adolescents and adults to experience a marked difference between their inner gender identity and their assigned gender for at least six months. This difference is characterized by at least two of the following:

• A difference between gender identity and genitals or secondary sex characteristics, such as breast size, voice, and facial hair. In young adolescents, a difference between gender identity and anticipated secondary sex characteristics.
• A strong desire to be rid of these genitals or secondary sex characteristics or to prevent the development of secondary sex characteristics.
• A strong desire to have the genitals and secondary sex characteristics of another gender.
• A strong desire to be or to be treated as another gender.
• A strong belief of having the typical feelings and reactions of another gender.

Gender dysphoria may also cause significant distress that affects how individuals function in social situations, at work or school, and in other areas of life.

Gender dysphoria may start in childhood and continue into adolescence and adulthood. Some individuals may experience periods in which they no longer experience gender dysphoria. It can also emerge around the time of puberty or much later in life.

Complications of Gender Dysphoria

Gender dysphoria can affect various aspects of life, including daily activities. Individuals experiencing gender dysphoria might face difficulty at school due to pressure to conform to the gender associated with their sex assigned at birth or out of fear of harassment or teasing.

If gender dysphoria impairs the ability to function at school or work, it may lead to school dropout or unemployment. Relationship difficulties are common, and individuals may also experience anxiety, depression, self-harm, eating disorders, substance misuse, and other problems.

People with gender dysphoria often experience discrimination, resulting in stress. Accessing healthcare and mental health services can be challenging due to fear of stigma and a lack of experienced care providers.

Adolescents and adults with gender dysphoria without gender-affirming treatment might be at risk of contemplating or attempting suicide.