People who feel that they do not identify with the gender assigned to them at birth exist and have existed throughout history and in all cultures. And yet, mainly because of societal expectations and prejudice, most of them remain trapped in the “wrong” body, which causes them suffering, lack of freedom, feelings of powerlessness, and mental anguish.
Telling family, friends, and colleagues that you are no longer a woman, but a man, and vice versa. Revealing the world that the gender you were assigned at birth does not match how you see yourself and how you feel is without a doubt the most difficult moment in a transgender person’s life. It means facing many risks, such as rejection and lack of understanding from those around you, and potentially losing your job, your home and your closest relationships.
More and more transgender people are opting for what is known as gender transition – changing one’s gender presentation to accord with one’s gender identity. Some are content with adjusting their appearance, their clothes, and their paperwork. Others choose to undergo gender reassignment surgery.
A conversation with Lia Bordon and genital surgeon Miloš Petrović, MD.