Transsexualism: Clinical Features and Legal Issues

Abstract

Although the epidemiological data is generally obtained from the patients that applied for gender reassignment surgery, it is known that transsexualism is not seen as rarely as it was estimated in the past and should be evaluated in detail because of its psychological and social consequences. Etiology remains to be unclear and biological and psychosocial factors are thought to be responsible for its development. Gender identity stabilizes approximately in 3-4 ages and it is impossible to change it after these ages. For this reason the aim of treatment approaches is to improve the conformity of individuals to their identity and life, but not to change the gender identity. The World Professional Association for Transgender Health [WPATH] published a guideline including standards of care [SOC] and SOC provide clinical guidance in follow-up and treatment of transsexual individuals. There is a detailed code in civil law about gender reassignment but when this code implemented strictly, the use of it is very limited and it is clear that a new arrangement is needed in this issue.

Keywords

• gender identity
• transsexualism
• gender reassignment
• legal issues