Transsexual
Transsexual is a term historically used for people whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth and who often undergo medical transition such as hormone therapy or surgery. Today the broader term transgender is more commonly used in everyday language, while transsexual is more used in porn and prostitution.
The word transsexual appeared mainly in medical and psychological discussions during the 20th century. It was often used to describe individuals who sought physical transition through hormones or gender-affirming surgery. While some people still identify with the term, many modern discussions prefer the wider umbrella term transgender.
Transsexual people may identify as either men or women after transition. For example a transsexual woman is someone who was assigned male at birth but lives as a lady.
Similar Terms
Several other identities and cultural terms are often discussed together with transsexual people.
- Transgender – the broader umbrella term used today for people whose gender identity differs from their assigned sex at birth.
- Transvestism – wearing clothing traditionally associated with another gender.
- ladyboy – a common English term used in Southeast Asia, especially in Thailand, referring to transgender ladies.
- Shemale – a term commonly used in pornography and parts of the adult entertainment industry.
- hijra - a traditional third gender community in South Asia.
Transsexuals in Nightlife and the Sex Industry
In many cities around the world transsexual women appear in nightlife scenes, entertainment venues, escort advertising and prostitution environments. In some places they work in cabaret shows, bars or massage venues, while in others they operate mainly through online escort listings and dating apps.
Transsexual sex workers are discussed in more detail in Transgender Prostitution by Region. Online advertising platforms and escort directories are listed in Top 10 Best Trans and Shemale Escort Sites and Directories in the World.
In tourist destinations in Southeast Asia, especially Philippines, Malaysia and Thailand, transsexual performers and escorts are often visible in nightlife areas and red-light districts.
See Also
- North America | South America | Europe | Africa | Asia | Oceania
