Gender dysphoria
Overview
Gender dysphoria is a term that describes a sense of unease that a person may have because of a mismatch between their biological sex and their gender identity.
Symptoms
People with gender dysphoria may have changed their appearance, their behaviour or their interests. They may also show signs of discomfort or distress, including: low self-esteembecoming withdrawn or socially isolateddepression or anxietytaking unnecessary risksneglecting themselves Read more about thesigns of gender dysphoria.
Causes
The exact cause of gender dysphoria is unclear. Gender development is complex and there are still things that are not known or fully understood. Gender dysphoria is not related to sexual orientation. People with gender dysphoria may identify as straight, gay, lesbian or bisexual.
Treatment
After a detailed assessment to confirm the diagnosis of gender dysphoria and what it means for you, the GDC team will work with you on an agreed treatment plan. If you are assessed as not having gender dysphoria, the GDC may recommend other forms of support to your GP. Treatments provided by the GDC are intended to provide lasting relief from gender dysphoria. This can mean different things to different people. For some people, treatment may just involve acceptance and affirmation or confirmation of their identity. For others, it may involve bigger changes, such as changes to their voice, hormone treatment or surgery. Read more abouttreatments for gender dysphoria.