What is gender dysphoria?
Gender dysphoria refers to the distress or discomfort a transgender or gender-expansive person may feel if their birth-assigned sex does not align with their gender identity.
- Birth-assigned sex—also known as birth-designated sex or natal sex—is the sex (male or female) assigned at birth.
- Gender identity is a person’s internal sense of being male, female, neither male nor female, or a combination of both male and female.
People who are significantly affected by gender dysphoria may choose to undergo medical and/or surgical treatment to transition physically and socially to the gender role they feel to be their true selves. A diagnosis for gender dysphoria was created to help people access the health care, treatment, and support they may need.
Options for treatment of gender dysphoria
The Gender Care Program at Main Line Health offers an array of medical, surgical, behavioral health, and support services to serve the diverse needs of individuals with gender dysphoria. The program provides a safe, welcoming space where people with any degree of gender-related distress can find the support and specialized care that they need.
