The American Medical Association published an article that explores taxpayer-funded uterus transplants as a solution for transgender women — biological males who believe they are female — to help “consolidate” their chosen gender.

The article, written by Timothy F. Murphy, PhD, and Kelsey Mumford, was published in a June issue of the AMA Journal of Ethics with the title: “Should Uterus Transplantation for Transwomen and Transmen Be Subsidized?”

The article points to successful uterus transplantation (UTx) among biological females and concluded that it “suggests that transwomen and some transmen will also likely have interest in this intervention.” However, the article correctly asserts that many taxpayers will not be as willing to subsidize such procedures for biological males. It notes that transgender women could be interested in uterus transplants not only to carry their own child but to simply “consolidate their identities” or affirm their chosen gender.

The article estimates uterus transplantation to cost between $100 000 and $300 000, although it notes that this is often covered by institutions, grants, or, in some cases, insurance.