In gender-affirming care, ensuring informed consent is fundamental to respecting individuals’ autonomy, rights, and dignity.
People who cannot consent may not be able to fully understand the implications, risks, and benefits of hormone therapy. This can come from cognitive limitations, communication barriers, or compromised mental health. Without the ability to understand potential consequences or provide meaningful consent, proceeding with hormone therapy can pose ethical dilemmas and risks to the individual’s wellbeing.
What if I don’t have capacity to consent?
If the advisor conducting your Information Gathering Session (IGS) is concerned that you don’t fully understand the process and the effects of transitioning hormones, they may ask you to have another session with someone more senior.
The aim is to help you to make the best decisions, at the right time for you. If there are still concerns, you can ask someone close to you to help you in the process.