In a groundbreaking article published in JAMA Surgery, researchers from Johns Hopkins University challenge a common but unsupported belief that many patients who undergo gender affirming surgery (GAS) later regret their decision. The study argues that regret is, in fact, much rarer than previously believed and calls for the medical community to use scientific data to properly define post-surgical regret and address the health needs of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals.
The researchers, including Dr. Harry Barbee, an assistant professor and interdisciplinary social scientist, Dr. Bashar Hassan, a postdoctoral research fellow in plastic and reconstructive surgery, and Dr. Fan Liang, medical director at the Center for Transgender and Gender Expansive Health (CTH), analyzed existing evidence-based studies on post-GAS regret. Their findings challenge the prevailing belief that regret is a widespread outcome of gender affirming surgery.
By shedding light on the limited amount of research available on the topic, the researchers argue that it is crucial to redefine post-surgical regret using scientific data. This will not only help dispel misconceptions surrounding gender affirming surgery but also provide better guidance for healthcare professionals and policymakers.
The study also emphasizes the importance of approaching healthcare and public policy through an evidence-based lens when addressing the needs of diverse populations. By dismissing the belief in high levels of regret, the researchers encourage a more comprehensive understanding of the experiences and outcomes of transgender and gender diverse individuals who undergo gender affirming surgery.
Previous research has shown that gender affirming surgery can greatly improve the overall well-being and mental health of transgender individuals. However, the misconception about regret has led to significant barriers in access to care, delays in treatment, and unnecessary psychological distress for TGD patients.
The researchers argue that by challenging this misguided belief, healthcare providers and policymakers can work towards creating more inclusive and accessible healthcare systems. This includes ensuring that transgender and gender diverse individuals have the same rights and opportunities as their cisgender counterparts.
The article concludes by emphasizing the need for further research on post-GAS regret, as well as the importance of using evidence-based science to inform healthcare practices and policies. By doing so, the medical community can better support the needs of TGD individuals and provide them with the quality care they deserve.
In summary, the study conducted by researchers from Johns Hopkins University debunks the commonly held belief that regret is a prevalent outcome of gender affirming surgery among transgender patients. The research urges the medical community to rely on scientific evidence to define post-surgical regret accurately and calls for more inclusive and evidence-based healthcare practices for transgender and gender diverse individuals.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
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