Standards of Care for the Health of Transsexual, Transgender, and Gender-Nonconforming People, Version 7

The 2012 document provided comprehensive guidelines for the health care of transsexual, transgender, and gender-nonconforming individuals, focusing on the importance of informed consent, the medical necessity of gender-affirming treatments such as hormone therapy and surgeries, and the role of mental health professionals. It emphasized that gender nonconformity is not a disorder, distinguished between gender nonconformity and gender dysphoria, and noted that treatments are critical for those experiencing distress due to gender dysphoria. The document discussed the need for a flexible, culturally sensitive approach to care, the lack of comprehensive epidemiological data, and the evolution of personalized therapeutic approaches. It also addressed the health risks associated with hormone therapy, the importance of psychosocial support, and the need for specialized training for health professionals. Outcome studies cited in the document generally showed positive psychosocial outcomes for patients after sex reassignment surgery and hormone therapy, but also highlighted the necessity for further research, particularly regarding long-term outcomes and hormone therapy without surgery.