The DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria for Gender Dysphoria

Abstract

Quality of life (QoL) is a multidisciplinary and transversal topic that includes a variety of aspects related to medical, social, political, and economic sciences. It is a broad concept that concerns the well-being of a person or a community, comprehending physical and mental health, occupational satisfaction, social integration and economic welfare. Sex reassignment surgery (SRS) in patients with gender dysphoria affects not only physical modifications in the aesthetics and function of the genitalia, but also allows many changes in lifestyle and sexual behaviour and, last but not least, allows a complete transition to another social, familiar and sexual role. Therefore, taking into account QoL means treating not only the surgical issues, but also the psychological and social aspects. Many factors can be considered to be determinants of QoL after SRS. We can distinguish between physical/biological factors, directly depending on the surgical procedure and its functional outcomes, and social/relational factors.