Sex change cases rise in MP:Men aged 22–28 undergoing surgery; Bhopal AIIMS records 5 surgeries in 2025

In Madhya Pradesh, particularly at AIIMS Bhopal, an increasing number of young men are undergoing gender-affirming surgeries to transition into women.
Doctors report that in the past one year, five male-to-female gender transition surgeries have been performed at the institute. All patients were between 22 and 28 years of age.
Medical experts say this reflects a growing awareness of gender identity issues even in smaller cities and towns.
Doctors stressed that gender transition is not just a surgical procedure but a long-term psychological, medical, and social process. They also suggest that future medical advancements may make it possible for transgender women to experience motherhood biologically. Case spotlight: Somesh’s transition Somesh, a resident of Rajgarh district in Madhya Pradesh, reportedly began showing feminine behaviour from the age of 10, preferring girls’ clothing and mannerisms.
His family gradually recognized his gender identity concerns. At the age of 24, he underwent gender-affirming surgery and transitioned from male to female. Doctors say his case is one among several similar cases being reported in the region. Medical perspective: Complexity of “bottom surgery” Dr. Arun Kumar Dora, Professor in the Gynecology Department at AIIMS Bhopal, said five male-to-female gender-affirming surgeries have been performed at the institute so far.
He explained that bottom surgery involves the removal of male genital organs and reconstruction of female anatomy, making it a highly complex medical procedure.
He added that during his formal medical education, exposure to such surgeries was limited, and he later gained expertise through conferences and specialized training programs.
Currently, AIIMS Bhopal provides these surgeries free of cost, while private hospitals may charge between ₹8–10 lakh. Mandatory psychological and Hormonal evaluation Doctors stressed that gender transition requires multiple stages, including: Patients are also carefully counselled to ensure decisions are not influenced by emotional distress or external pressure. Case 1: Childhood ratuma and Social stigma Anurag (name changed), from a village in Rewa district, was born in 2000. From an early age, he displayed feminine behaviour and often wore his sister’s clothing, which led to ridicule from others.
At around age 9, he reportedly faced harassment from peers, which had a lasting psychological impact.
After becoming financially independent through employment, he decided to undergo gender transition surgery. With family consent, he approached AIIMS Bhopal in October 2025 and successfully underwent treatment. Case 2: Family rejection and Emotional distress A 24-year-old man from a village near Bhopal (name changed) has been living as a woman for the past four months.
During consultation at the AIIMS transgender clinic, he told doctors that he identifies as female internally. He also reported long-term family rejection and verbal abuse since childhood, which influenced his decision. Case 3: Complications after external surgery A 28-year-old man from Indore developed serious medical complications after undergoing gender transition procedures at private hospitals outside Madhya Pradesh.
He initially underwent chest reconstruction surgery and later genital surgery elsewhere, which reportedly failed.
Seeking better treatment, he approached AIIMS Bhopal, where a complex eight-hour corrective surgery was performed on April 24.
Doctors warned that improper surgeries can cause irreversible damage, including loss of sensation and internal injuries. AIIMS transgender clinic: Multidisciplinary care model AIIMS Bhopal established a dedicated transgender health clinic two years ago. The clinic operates with a multidisciplinary team including: Outpatient services are held twice a month, on the first and third Thursday, allowing patients to openly discuss their concerns. Social stigma remains a major challenge Despite medical advancements, doctors say social stigma remains a major challenge for transgender individuals.
Many continue to face discrimination, rejection, and lack of social acceptance.
Experts stress that in addition to medical care, emotional support, dignity, and social inclusion are essential for transgender healthcare outcomes.