Seeking gender-affirming care is a life-changing decision and journey. Once you’ve decided to undergo gender-affirming surgery, it can feel daunting to speak to family and friends. Will they be supportive? Will they understand? How will they handle the news? Learn how to speak to family, friends, children and loved ones about your transition and create a loving support system.
Discussing Gender-Affirmation Surgery with Family
Gender-affirming surgery is life-changing. Not just for the trans individual, but also for their families, friends, children and loved ones. When talking about gender-affirmation surgery, it’s important to speak in terms everyone understands. When addressing children, in particular, speak in simple terms. There are resources available to help address conversations around gender and identity with children. Emphasize to children that your love, care and support for them will remain unchanged. For adults, having one-on-one or small group conversations will help give everyone space to process and ask questions.
Answering Questions About Gender Transition
Answering questions around surgery can help loved ones understand. It may be difficult for some family members to process. Give loved ones the space to ask questions respectfully.
Use the following tips to help guide your answers:
- Anticipate questions family members may ask– this can help you prepare
- Answer truthfully and honestly
- Be open about changes
- Focus on consistency- your love for your family, children and friends will remain the same
- Offer follow-up conversations and resources
Loved ones may feel a range of emotions. Validate their feelings and give them time to process. Offer resources that provide education on gender-affirmation and insight into your personal journey.
What Do I Do If My Family Doesn't Accept Me As Trans?
If your loved ones are not accepting during your transition, look elsewhere for support. Distance yourself from friends and family who are negative about your journey. Set boundaries with the unsupportive people in your life. Speaking with a therapist or other mental health specialist can provide techniques on keeping your peace and setting boundaries. Family and group counseling services are also available to help loved ones process this change and foster understanding. Find your support system in which you feel empowered and validated. Local support groups can foster a positive, accepting, and affirming environment for trans people during transition. These groups can discuss gender-affirming surgery and be a source of validation and emotional support.
Plan Your Gender-Affirmation Surgery
Discussing your transition with your loved ones can be intimidating. Being prepared to answer questions and speaking at a level that everyone understands are vital to having productive conversations. Setting boundaries with unsupportive family members and finding a support system will help uplift and validate your journey. At ART Surgical, we care about every step of your journey. Our team is with you every step of the way, from the first intake meeting through your gender-affirming surgery and after. Contact us today to schedule your first consultation.