Transition and Real-Life Experience
At WIH Hospital, we understand that every gender journey is deeply personal. For many transgender individuals, the process of transition involves more than medical treatment — it is a journey of self-recognition, social adjustment, and emotional growth. This process is often referred to as transition, and part of it may include a period called the real-life experience or real-life test.
Understanding Transition
Transition refers to the steps an individual takes to live in a gender role that aligns with their gender identity. It is a gradual and highly individual process that may involve several aspects:
- Social transition — expressing one’s gender identity in daily life, such as through name, pronouns, clothing, hairstyle, and communication style.
- Medical transition — using hormone therapy (HRT) or undergoing gender-affirming surgeries to align physical characteristics with gender identity.
- Psychological transition — emotional readiness, self-acceptance, and ongoing support from mental health professionals or support networks.
Each person’s transition journey is unique; some may complete social changes before medical ones, while others may pursue both simultaneously. There is no “one right way” to transition — only the way that best affirms one’s identity and sense of well-being.
What Is the Real-Life Experience (RLE)?
The real-life experience, also known as the real-life test, is a period in which individuals live full-time in their affirmed gender role before undergoing gender-affirming surgery.
Historically, this step was a mandatory requirement in earlier versions of the WPATH Standards of Care (SOC-7) to ensure that the individual could adapt to their gender role in social, occupational, and interpersonal contexts.
However, under WPATH SOC-8, the real-life experience is now optional and personalized. It remains an important self-affirming phase for many patients, helping them build confidence, gather social support, and prepare emotionally for surgery — but it is no longer a universal prerequisite.
Why Real-Life Experience Matters
Even though it is not mandatory, living in one’s affirmed gender role can help patients:
- Gain self-confidence and comfort with their gender identity
- Strengthen communication and relationships with family and peers
- Experience daily challenges and victories as their authentic self
- Clarify long-term goals and expectations before surgery
Our team at WIH Hospital encourages patients to view this phase as a journey of self-affirmation, not as an obligation or test. Every patient receives guidance tailored to their personal comfort and readiness.
How WIH Hospital Supports You
At WIH Hospital, Dr. Chettasak Tulayaphanich and his multidisciplinary team provide comprehensive support throughout your transition. From psychological counseling and hormonal evaluation to pre- and post-operative care, we ensure that every patient’s experience is safe, respectful, and empowering.
If you are preparing for surgery, you can also read our companion guide:
👉 Preparing for Gender-Affirming Surgery
