Detransition

Detransition, also shortened to detrans, refers to the process in which a person partially or fully reverses, stops, or changes steps of a previous transition. This may involve social aspects, such as using a former name or different pronouns again, legal aspects such as changing one’s registered gender marker or name, and medical aspects, such as stopping hormone therapy or pursuing further medical care.

The reasons for detransition are individual and can vary widely. They may include a changed understanding of one’s gender identity, health-related reasons, lack of support, social pressure, discrimination, or experiences of transphobia. Detransition does not automatically mean that a previous transition was “wrong” or that the person cannot be queer or trans; some detrans people continue to identify as trans, non-binary, or part of the queer community.

Medical steps should not be changed abruptly or without professional guidance, especially when hormone therapy or surgery is involved. Respectful medical and psychosocial support can help reduce risks and support well-informed decisions. Not all physical changes can be fully reversed, which makes factual, non-stigmatizing counselling especially important.