5 Common Myths About Gender-Affirming Healthcare, Debunked!

Gender-affirming healthcare is a crucial part of medical care for transgender and nonbinary individuals, yet misinformation continues to spread about what this care entails and the value it offers to workers, employees, and society as a whole. Below, we debunk some of the most common myths surrounding gender-affirming healthcare, using evidence-based research and expert insights.

What Is Gender-Affirming Care?

Gender-affirming medical care refers to a range of evidence-based treatments that support transgender and nonbinary individuals in aligning their physical characteristics with their gender identity. This care can include gender-affirming hormone therapy (also known as hormone replacement therapy), puberty blockers, voice therapy, and gender-affirming surgery, all of which are provided under the supervision of medical professionals. 

However, which forms of care are best for individual needs can vary widely. Not all individuals seeking gender care are good candidates for the full spectrum of available options.

Gender-affirming care is recognized by major medical organizations as essential and life-saving, helping to reduce gender dysphoria and improve mental health outcomes. Contrary to common misconceptions, these treatments are based on decades of research and follow rigorous medical guidelines to ensure patient safety and well-being.

Myth #1: Gender-Affirming Care Is a New Trend With No Scientific Basis

Fact: Gender-affirming care has existed for decades and is backed by extensive research.

Contrary to claims that gender-affirming healthcare is a modern or experimental phenomenon, medical support for transgender individuals has a long history. Hormone therapies have been safely used since the mid-20th century, and gender-affirming surgeries have been performed for over 50 years. Additionally, research in gender identity dates back even further, with documented medical recognition of transgender identities since the early 1900s.

Modern studies continue to affirm the medical necessity of gender-affirming care, demonstrating its effectiveness in reducing gender dysphoria and improving overall well-being.

Myth #2: Gender-Affirming Healthcare Is Experimental, Unsafe, and Medically Unnecessary

Fact: Gender-affirming healthcare is supported by major medical organizations and is based on decades of research.

Leading medical associations, including the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the World Professional Association for Transgender Health, recognize gender-affirming care as medically necessary. Treatments such as hormone therapy and gender-affirming surgeries follow strict guidelines under professional medical supervision. 

Gender-affirming hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone, have been used safely for decades and are medically similar to hormone treatments prescribed for cisgender individuals experiencing menopause or hormone deficiencies.

Longitudinal studies show that gender-affirming care isn’t just safe — it’s medically necessary. This care significantly improves mental health outcomes, reducing rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide among transgender individuals.

Myth #3: Gender-Affirming Care Is Only for Minors

Fact: The majority of people who receive gender-affirming healthcare are adults.

A common misconception is that gender-affirming care is only about providing treatments such as puberty blockers or hormones to minors. However, research shows that the vast majority of individuals receiving gender-affirming healthcare are adults. While minors may have access to puberty blockers — a reversible medical intervention that delays puberty to give youth time to explore their gender identity — surgical procedures are primarily reserved for adults.

Additionally, when minors do seek gender-affirming care, their treatment involves extensive psychological and medical evaluations before any decisions are made. The notion that minors are undergoing gender-affirming surgeries without oversight is a falsehood that has been widely debunked.

Myth #4: People Regret Gender-Affirming Surgeries at High Rates

Fact: Regret rates for gender-affirming surgeries are extremely low.

One of the most frequently cited myths is that people who undergo gender-affirming surgeries regret their decision. However, data from multiple studies contradict this claim. A comprehensive study found that regret rates for gender-affirming surgeries are lower than those for many common procedures, such as knee replacements. Research also shows that satisfaction with gender-affirming procedures is high, with most recipients reporting an improvement in their mental health and quality of life.

While a small percentage of individuals may choose to detransition, their reasons are often complex and tied to external factors such as social stigma, discrimination, or lack of support rather than regret over medical treatment.

Myth #5: Gender-Affirming Healthcare Is Costly and Burdens Employers

Fact: Covering gender-affirming care is cost-effective and benefits both employees and employers.

Employers often assume that providing gender-affirming healthcare coverage will be a significant financial burden. However, studies show that covering gender-affirming care has a minimal impact on overall healthcare costs. The cost of covering gender-affirming treatments is typically low compared to other medical expenses, and including such coverage can lead to reduced healthcare costs over time due to improved mental and physical health outcomes.

Moreover, providing comprehensive healthcare benefits contributes to employee retention, productivity, and job satisfaction. Companies that offer inclusive healthcare benefits often see a positive impact on workplace culture and morale.

Gender-Affirming Care and Healthcare Coverage Benefits Everyone

Gender-affirming healthcare is a well-established, medically necessary form of care that improves the lives of transgender and nonbinary individuals. Misinformation about this type of healthcare contributes to stigma, discrimination, and unnecessary barriers to treatment.

Ensuring health plans include gender-affirming care isn’t only a step toward workplace inclusivity but also a sound business decision. Employers who prioritize comprehensive healthcare options contribute to a supportive and productive work environment that benefits all employees. By debunking these myths and advocating for inclusive healthcare coverage, we can create a more supportive and equitable society — both in and outside the workplace.

Protect Trans Employee Workplace Rights With TransCanWork

At TransCanWork, we envision a world where the barriers to employment for transgender individuals are dismantled and where they can pursue fulfilling careers — and healthcare coverage — free from discrimination and prejudice. This vision encompasses several key elements that enable empowerment, equality, and dignity for transgender workers everywhere.

We promote the implementation of policies that protect the rights of transgender workers, including nondiscrimination policies, healthcare coverage for gender-affirming treatments, and appropriate restroom and dress code accommodations.

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