cycycychris said:
Graphical comparisons video.
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SpokenTruth said:
JWeinCom said:
1). I think in general we should try to limit gender reassignment surgery as much as possible. Not on any kind of moral grounds or anything, but simply on the basis that we always want to use the least extreme medical intervention as possible, and surgery is a pretty extreme option. If a doctor/psychiatrist decides it's truly the best option, then I'm for it, but if there is a way to make trans people feel comfortable with themselves without surgery, I think that would be preferable.
2). As for feeling trapped in a body, I just don't get that. As a male, I really have no concept of what being a man means beyond physical factors and in most, but definitely not all, circumstances being more in line with societal expectations for a man than a woman. I don't know what "feeling like a man" inside would mean beyond acting in line with societal expectations of a man. Maybe it's just one of those things you can't get unless you experience it.
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1). But gender reassignment surgery is only undertaken if medically cleared. I'll copy my text I posted earlier.
"You cannot just walk into a facility and get reassigned just because you want to. You have to pass a battery of prerequisites to qualify as a candidate. For most centers, you must be officially diagnosed with gender dysphoria, be recommended by 2 or more mental health specialists in the field, begin hormone treatment for at least 1 year, have a documented "living the life" test completed (proving you actually live as your claimed gender), are declared emotionally stable, are medically healthy, and (optionally, depending on facility) have the support of friends and family."
2). You are correct at the end. You and I will never likely experience that psychology and emotions. I'm cis male and cannot imagine what it must feel like to be in the wrong sex or gender but I can fully sympathize with those that do go through that because I understand the psychology behind it.
One does not need to have cancer to analyze it.
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I'm not saying the surgery is wrong, I'm saying that it should be done as rarely as possible. Like, I take antidepressants because I need them, but my goal with my psychiatrist is eventually get to the point where I don't need one. Because any medication or surgery carries risks and downsides. It's good we have safeguards in place to make sure it's only used when appropriately, but don't you agree it would be better if trans people could feel comfortable with themselves without needing it?
I can sympathize with people who have it because I get that they're going through something. I understand psychological distress, even if I don't know their particular brand. But sympathizing and understanding are two different things.
