Detransition

Detransition is the cessation or reversal of a transgender identification or of gender transition, temporarily or permanently, through social, legal, and/or medical means.^[1] The term is distinct from the concept of 'regret', and the decision may be based on a shift in gender identity, or other reasons, such as health concerns, social or economic pressure, discrimination, stigma,^[2] political beliefs,^[3] or religious beliefs.^[4]

Some studies use the term retransition rather than detransition.^[5] Retransition is also commonly used to describe the resumption of transition or transgender identity following a detransition.^[6]

The estimated prevalence of detransition varies depending on definitions and methodology, with estimates ranging from 1% to 8%.^[7] A 2018 review on the outcomes of gender transition found a large majority of data showing positive outcomes, a few reports of neutral outcomes or null results, and no studies which reported that gender transition causes overall harm.^[8] Although some studies cite a range up to 8%, this combines 3% of survey respondents who had de-transitioned at the time of the survey, along with 5% who had temporarily done so in the past.^[7][9] Different methodological limitations afflict studies reporting low and high incidence.^[10][11]

Formal studies of detransition have been few in number,^[12] politically controversial,^[13] and inconsistent in the way they characterize the phenomenon.^[14] Professional interest in the phenomenon has been met with contention, and some scholars have argued there is censorship around the topic.^[15] Some ex-detransitioners regret detransitioning and choose to retransition later.^[5] Some organizations with ties to conversion therapy have used detransition narratives to push transphobic rhetoric and legislation.^[16]