Transgender is an umbrella term used to describe individuals whose gender identity does not align with the sex they were assigned at birth. In other words, transgender individuals have a gender identity that differs from the sex they were biologically assigned based on their physical characteristics at birth.

Gender identity refers to a person’s deeply held sense of their own gender, whether that is male, female, or something else entirely. While sex is typically categorized as male or female based on physical attributes such as reproductive organs, chromosomes, and hormones, gender identity is a more complex and personal experience.

Transgender individuals may experience discomfort, distress, or a sense of incongruence between their gender identity and the sex assigned at birth. Some transgender individuals may pursue social, medical, or legal steps to align their physical appearance, pronouns, and gender expression with their gender identity. This can involve social transitioning, hormone therapy, and various forms of gender-affirming surgeries.

It’s important to note that gender identity exists on a spectrum, and transgender individuals may identify as male, female, non-binary, genderqueer, or use other terms to describe their gender identity. It’s essential to respect and acknowledge individuals’ self-identified gender and use appropriate pronouns and terminology when referring to them.