Why We Need Gender-Affirming Care

In a world that is constantly evolving, it is imperative to show respect for one another’s unique experiences and identities. This is particularly crucial when providing-providing competent gender-affirming care to the transgender and gender non-conforming communities in Dallas. . . To better understand why this care is so important, I sat down with Jamila and Chris, two of Resource Center’s Gender Affirming Care team members at the Nelson Tebedo Sexual Health Clinic.  

CJ: Could you explain the different types of gender-affirming care options available to trans individuals?

Chris: For trans men or trans-masc individuals, we offer testosterone. You can receive testosterone via intramuscular injection or subcutaneous (fatty tissue) injection. Testosterone can also be applied topically using AndroGel^®. 

Jamila: We offer both testosterone blockers and estrogen for trans women and trans-femme people. In addition, for all transgender or gender non-conforming people, we also providesupport letters for our transgender patients. That could be a name change or gender marker support letter. We also write support letters for surgeries (Gender-affirming surgeries may require up to 3 support letters, depending on the type of surgery). The patient talks to us (the coordinators) or their provider and lets them know their needs. From there, we provide the letters to assist them in their goal. We’re lucky enough to have staff members with different immigration statuses, so patients of all backgrounds can be connected to affirming support.,   

Chris: We also know that gender-affirming care is not just medical; we provide or connect people to resources for other aspects of their lives, such as social groups, trans-friendly hairstylists, dentists, and other important services. 

CJ: How has gender-affirming care impacted your overall well-being and quality of life?

Chris: It’s changed my life for the better in so, so many ways. It’s taught me how to live my life authentically. Also, meeting the trans community and accessing the many different typesof gender-affirming care is really amazing. Gender identity is so fluid, so having these resources is extremely important.  

Jamila: For me, it’s been a very positive journey. Before starting my journey, I was lost, confused, and vulnerable. I didn’t know how to be my best self. I knew at a young age who I was, but growing up, there wasn’t any representation for trans people like we have now. In the past, I struggled with my mental health because of how hard it was to access gender-affirming care. Being where I am today, I want to be a resource for patients who want to navigate their own journey. I feel so lucky to have and be able to provide these services.

CJ: What advice would you give to other trans women who are considering or just starting their gender-affirming care journey?

Jamila: Be your own advocate when it comes to your physical and emotional safety. Here at Nelson-Tebedo, our intake is about an hour. We want to take the time out for you to express your goals and discuss how we can get you what you need. You feel more powerful when you’re able to make your own choices.  

Chris: I have two pieces of advice. The first is to really lean on the trans community. There are so many people (especially online) sharing their stories. You can always learn from their experiences and pick and choose what fits for you after hearing about their journeys. Of course, no one is the same, but you can make it your own and learn from each other. There are thousands of people willing to help you if you just reach out.  

My second piece of advice is to take your time. You don’t have to be in a rush to transition or start hormones. Make sure this is exactly what you want. It’s not an easy thing to consider, so be patient with yourself and trust the process. 

CJ: Thank you both for all you do for the trans community. You’re a beacon of hope to so many, whether you realize it or not. 

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If you want more information about transgender care at Resource Center, start by completing this form. Click Here

PLEASE NOTE

Due to increased demand for our transgender-affirming care, we are experiencing delays in new patient intake. When you submit your form, you will be placed on our waiting list, and we will reach out to you as soon as we can.

Nelson-Tebedo is located at 4012 Cedar Springs Rd, Dallas, TX 75219

Phone Number: 214-528-2336