- According to the INEGI, 76% of the LGBT+ community have at least one emotional problem.
- Intersex people do not identify with what is traditionally considered “masculine” or “feminine”.
- From the form of expression to the labels, they are very important in order not to attack intersex patients.
To offer correct care within the medical office, it is necessary to take into account many factors. The variety of people who require the service is quite wide and you must be absolutely respectful of each individual. For the same reason, you must know the correct way in which you should address intersex patients because it is a community that is gaining more and more notoriety.
To begin with, according to National Survey on Sexual and Gender Diversity (ENDISEG) 2021 From the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI) it is obtained that there are 2.3 million people who self-identify within this guild.
What does it mean to be intersex?
It is a term that is used to define all people who are born with reproductive or sexual organs that do not conform to what is traditionally considered “male” or “female”. Sometimes when an intersex baby is born, doctors perform surgeries on them to match their binary ideas of what is “male” and “female” sex.
There are many ways someone can be intersex. Some people have genitalia or internal organs that don’t fit the traditional categories. While others have combinations of chromosomes, for example XXY. There are also others who are born with external genitalia that fit the categories associated with male/female, but their internal organs or hormones don’t fit.
Something quite clear is that it is not necessary to be part of this community to understand and fight for their equality. A clear example can be seen with the medical service because in all cases a complete service must be offered. For this reason, the following tips will be useful for your intersex patients.
Sex and gender: the importance of understanding the differences
Sex refers to the biological characteristics on the basis of which people are classified as male, female, or intersex. However, the sex assigned at birth may or may not correspond to gender, which describes our internal understanding and experience of our own gender identity. Which cannot be assumed simply by observing someone.
Distinguish between expression and perception of gender
Gender expression can be a creative and affirming way of expression, whether through behaviors or modifications of physical appearance with clothing, hairstyles or accessories, for example. While the perception of gender is based on the evaluation made by external people based on different visual and social cues, including gender expression. It is best to refrain from making assumptions about a person’s gender.
Know the pronouns of people
Pronouns are a common way of communicating any gender and by respecting them, you show consideration and appreciation for the person. Instead of assuming, it is better to confirm with the person their pronouns, either by asking or by communicating your pronouns, which gives the other person an opportunity to share them.
To label or not to label?
Labels can be a liberating way to express yourself and find other people who understand your experiences. It’s okay if you don’t understand all the words used, but avoid invalidating other people by using labels you don’t know.
Similarly, make sure you don’t tell patients how you think they should or shouldn’t label their gender. Gender is a personal experience, and for some people it is more comfortable not to have labels than to decide on one right away.
Trust is the most important
Disclosing the identity of a trans or intersex person can cause discomfort and even danger if they have not shared this information with others, since many people or many environments can be dangerous for them.
Avoid sharing someone else’s story, even if it’s to make sure they know the right pronouns or because you’re surprised to learn that someone you know is trans or intersex.
Beware of ‘misgendering’ and microaggressions
Using the wrong gender or ‘misgendering’ to address someone, whether in their name or pronoun, can hurt a lot and can even put them in danger if they are in an intolerant environment, regardless of whether it is an innocent mistake or a malicious attempt to invalidate someone. someone.
On the other hand, microaggressions are everyday comments and questions that can hurt or stigmatize marginalized individuals and groups. They are subtle, and when you commit a microaggression, you may have no idea that your comments are hurtful. Before making any comments or questions about someone, take the time to evaluate if they can attack or hurt.
Learn to apologize if you have offended someone
Even if your intention is not to hurt others, there are common mistakes like the ones mentioned above. If it happens, there are 3 simple steps to fix your mistake. Listen, seek to understand and empathize with the experience that the other person lived; take responsibility, do not excuse or invalidate the feelings of others; commit to putting in the effort, treat it as a learning experience, and show that you care to do it right next time.
Also read:
This is the new IMSS manual for the care of LGBTTTI patients
The most famous LGBT doctors in history
Chart of the day: Countries where adoption between LGBT couples is legal