Genital examination should not be an automatic part of an assessment process that enables trans people – binary and non-binary – to access gender affirming healthcare. The AusPATH Board of Directors wishes to make clear that this practice is not in keeping with the majority view of health providers in this space.
We state emphatically that individuals have the right to decline any form of genital examination. The AusPATH Board of Directors believes that the practice of genital examinations prior to the initiation of gender affirming hormonal treatment adds little, if any, benefit to the assessment process, and creates significant trauma, embarrassment and harm to people who are subjected to this outdated practice.
AusPATH does not endorse this practice. We acknowledge that fear of being subjected to a genital examination is likely to contribute to distrust of the medical profession and harm the therapeutic relationship.
Physicians who believe a genital examination is clinically indicated should only ever offer this as a last resort option provided they have received the full, informed and explicit consent of their patient. We appreciate all feedback regarding this particular issue, and continue to welcome such feedback from our membership, and the greater trans community whose health and human rights we exist to strengthen and support.
Individuals are encouraged to access appropriate peer and professional support in each state and territory, and nationally. Your body, your autonomy, your self-determination, your right.
AusPATH Board of Directors
October 2019