Unveiling the mystique of gender dysphoria syndrome.

There are common myths surrounding the condition of gender dysphoria and individuals seeking therapy. The diagnosis of gender dysphoria syndrome is applied to individuals who feel ill at ease with their biological body and either seek hormonal reassignment therapy or hormonal therapy and sex reassignment surgery. The author discusses standards of care, diagnostic criteria, physiological and psychological changes incurred through hormonal therapy are introduced as well as surgical techniques. By assisting individuals with gender dysphoria syndrome to enhance the integration of their new gender role into their self-identity, nurses are in an excellent position to facilitate improvements in their overall health status as well.