Glossary

Welcome to the glossary of terms that appear on our website related to trans health and services available in British Columbia. 

Words that describe identities and body parts are important and powerful as they have the power to affirm, nurture, and celebrate, or to cause hurt. The words used in this Glossary are intended to strike a balance between being broad, inclusive and affirming, while also being descriptive enough to make sure that the reader is able to understand information that may be relevant to their body or experience. We acknowledge that some of the terms and definitions used in this Glossary may not resonate with some people, and for this we apologize. Language is always evolving and terms and definitions may become outdated quickly. If you see a term or definition on our site that may need updating, please Contact Us and let us know.

If it is professionally necessary and appropriate for you to refer to another person's gender or body part and you are unsure of what to say, the best practice is to ask that person in a private conversation, or to use a more neutral term until you are able to confirm the language that works best for them.

If you are interested in learning more terms and definitions relating to gender and sexual diversity, checkout the Qmunity Glossary developed by Qmunity: BC's Queer, Trans, and Two-Spirit Resource Centre.

SOURCE: Glossary ( )
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