Detransitioning, the process of stopping or reversing gender transition, has been a subject of considerable debate and controversy. A recent study published in Plos One sheds light on this complex issue, challenging some common misconceptions surrounding detransitioners. As the study suggests, the majority of detransitioners don’t simply regret being transgender; there are often other factors at play.
The research, conducted in Canada, aimed to delve into the experiences of individuals who had undergone gender-affirming care but eventually discontinued their treatment. This subject has gained increased attention in recent years, partly due to the rise of transphobia. The study’s authors recognized the need to examine this phenomenon more closely, as existing research on detransitioning remains limited and often fails to consider how individuals navigate their path to gender-affirming medical and surgical interventions.
Co-author and York University assistant professor Kinnon MacKinnon pointed out that the scarcity of research in this area is partly due to the stigma surrounding detransitioners. Many individuals feel unable to share their healthcare experiences if they did not have a positive outcome, contributing to the lack of comprehensive data on the subject.
The study involved interviews with 28 participants who had undergone gender-affirming care but later decided to discontinue it for various reasons. Notably, a significant portion of these respondents initially began transitioning under the age of 18, and most had experiences that led them to halt hormone therapy. However, their journeys did not conform to the stereotypical narrative of transitioning to one gender and reverting to their assigned birth gender. Surprisingly, 60 percent of respondents shifted from a binary gender identity to a non-binary one.
The study’s findings did not support the idea that therapy that is not gender-affirming is beneficial. Instead, many respondents expressed a preference for a more “neutral” approach to care, one that offers gender-affirming care as an option rather than the sole choice. Additionally, participants recommended that healthcare providers refrain from projecting their own views of gender onto patients.
Even those who reportedly detransitioned back to their original assigned gender did not express regret about exploring their identity. The study suggests that any feelings of regret may stem from a lack of information about treatment options, their relative risks and benefits, and a desire for greater clarity about their identities, rather than having too much autonomy in their decision-making process.
This research highlights the need for a more nuanced and empathetic understanding of detransitioning experiences and the diverse ways in which individuals navigate their gender identities. It underscores the importance of providing comprehensive and supportive healthcare options that respect each individual’s unique journey.
