A phenomenological exploration of the gender transition experience: findings to improve culturally competent nursing care and decrease health disparities

Background: Most recently, it has been reported that 1.4 million adults in the United States identify as transgender. This number is double what was reported just five years earlier. What little research has been completed on this vulnerable population indicates that people who identify as transgender experience higher rates of depression, suicide, and social stigmatization than the cisgender population. Stigmatization of transgender people and lack of access to quality care is often the root for these disparities. Very few studies have examined the experience of transition. Objective: The purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore the experience of transitioning from one gender to another. Methods: Non-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted via an online platform with 11 male-to-female transgender adults who gave their informed consent to participate. Results: Through a process of group data analysis, four major themes emerged: (a) Everybody Saw the Mask; (b) A Turning Point; (c) Shedding My Skin; and (d) Navigating the Way. Conclusions: These findings can heighten healthcare personnel’s sensitivity to this vulnerable population, as well as guide students and providers to provide culturally appropriate care, which can lead to a decrease in health disparities.