Gender Dysphoria and Cisgender People: A Closer Look

For many people, the idea of gender dysphoria is closely tied to transgender individuals seeking gender-affirming care. However, it is crucial to recognize that gender dysphoria can affect individuals who identify as cisgender as well. This phenomenon is more prevalent than often appreciated, especially in the context of various forms of gender affirmation and social practices.

Surprising Statistics on Gender Affirming Care

Contrary to popular belief, cisgender people make up a significant portion of those seeking gender-affirming care. In the United States alone, yearly surgeries and treatments among cisgender individuals far outnumber those among transgender individuals. Let's delve into the numbers:

170,000 hair transplants annually in the USA, compared to a mere few thousand vaginoplasties worldwide. 21,000 gynecomastia surgeries performed in the USA each year, in stark contrast to over 4,000 breast augmentations for trans women. 300,000 breast augmentations annually, compared to 13,000 top surgeries for trans men.

These statistics underscore that the pursuit of gender affirmation is not exclusive to transgender individuals. Many cisgender people also experience a desire to feel more in harmony with their physical appearance and gender identity.

Personal Stories and Insights

A personal account highlights the transformation many cisgender individuals undergo. For instance, a cisgender woman might revisit cosmetic procedures repeatedly, just like her trans counterparts might undergo various forms of body modification. One such example involves the author who has enhanced her appearance through multiple procedures, such as lip augmentation done twice and permanent makeup on the eyebrows. Despite differences in life experiences, these individuals often report similar psychological benefits from gender-affirming care.

Understanding Gender Dysphoria

The term gender dysphoria is often mistakenly used to describe only transgender individuals. A better term for transgender individuals is gender incongruity. This term is broader and more encompassing, as it can apply to both cisgender and transgender individuals. Gender dysphoria can manifest without a gender identity change or transition and can be experienced by those who desire to align their appearance with their gender identity.

The author reflects on her personal journey, illustrating that cisgender women, like herself, can experience dysphoria and seek various means to alleviate it. The importance of redefining commonly used terms is emphasized, as it can shift perspectives and foster greater inclusivity. While certain individuals label themselves as cis, the label may not align with their lived experiences or identity.

Contemporary Implications

The clinical definitions of gender dysphoria and cisgender have led to much debate and confusion. Some argue that if an individual calls themselves cis, they cannot be experiencing gender dysphoria. However, this perspective can be limiting and overlooks the complexity of individual experiences. The concept of social contagion and the impact of societal norms on gender identity are also important considerations.

Furthermore, the question of whether someone with gender dysphoria can be considered cisgender, and if they only become trans after undergoing certain procedures, adds another layer of complexity. These issues are fundamentally about the definitions we assign to words and how they shape our understanding of identity.

Conclusion

While gender dysphoria is often associated with transgender individuals, the reality is more nuanced. Cisgender people also experience this condition and may seek various means to address it through gender-affirming care. The emphasis on redefining terms and considering diverse experiences is essential for creating a more inclusive and understanding society. Understanding and accepting these complexities can lead to better support and care for all individuals, regardless of their gender identity.