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Military Health System

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Real Life Experience (RLE)

Date of Publication:

4/30/2021

Definition:

The phase in the gender transition process during which the individual begins living socially in the gender role consistent with their self-identified gender. RLE may or may not be preceded by the commencement of cross-sex hormone therapy, depending on the medical treatment associated with the individual Service member, cadet, or midshipman’s gender transition. The RLE phase is also a necessary precursor to certain medical procedures, including gender transition surgery. RLE generally encompasses dressing in the new gender, as well as using self-identified gender berthing, bathroom, and shower facilities.

Source of Definition:

DODI 1300.28 In-Service Transition for Transgender Service Members

Last Updated: September 16, 2022
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