At what age can you start gender transition?

The Endocrine Society recommends that they wait until age 18, but because more kids are transitioning at younger ages, some doctors are doing these surgeries earlier on a case-by-case basis.

What if you’re confused about your gender?

If you are experiencing discomfort or uncertainty about your gender identity, and it’s causing you distress, it’s important to talk to an adult you can trust. Options include your parents, who may be much more supportive than you expect.

Can you get top surgery 16?

Though most individuals undergoing top surgery are 18 or older, younger individuals may be considered for the procedure if the patient, their legal guardians, and their mental health professional are in agreement that top surgery is appropriate.

What does it mean for a child to affirm their gender?

If your child identifies as a gender that’s different from the sex they were given at birth, your child might want or need to affirm their gender identity. For many gender-diverse children and young people, affirming their gender identity is about openly acknowledging a gender that they already feel themselves to be.

What age do children express their gender identity?

Children can be very firm about their gender from an early age. For example, toddlers often proclaim ‘I’m a boy!’ or ‘I’m a girl!’ Many gender-diverse children also express their gender identity at around 2-3 years old. They can be firm about their gender too.

How can I start learning about gender labels?

A small first step is learning the meaning of different words related to gender. Here’s the thing about labels — you get to decide how helpful they are to you. Knowing the meaning of words doesn’t mean you have to fit perfectly within one category, but it can help you find some spaces and community to explore.

What can I do if my child doesn’t know their gender?

If your child hasn’t reached puberty, the professionals supporting your child might: support your child to affirm their gender, where appropriate. Once puberty has started, treatment options include: voice coaching and speech therapy to help your child communicate in a way that’s consistent with their gender identity.