‘Transmasculine people with a cervix’ encouraged to get cancer screenings by WA health dept

On Tuesday, the state health department released guidance on cervical cancer screenings on X, urging "transmasculine people with a cervix," a part of the female reproductive system, to get screened for cervical cancer.

"Transmasculine people with a cervix should talk to their doctor about cervical cancer, getting screening, and the HPV vaccine. Find a LGBTQ-welcoming provider at....," said the Washington State Department of Health on X.

According to Health, "Transmasculine (or transmasc)" is defined as a "term used for those assigned female at birth and whose gender identity or expression (or both) is masculine but not necessarily male."

Individuals were quick to flock to the comment section, voicing their distaste for the updated terminology and questioning why state taxpayers are funding this "insanity."

Jim Walsh, state rep and chairman of Washington State GOP, weighed in on the post and said:

"Why WA taxpayers want their money back: Exhibit A."

"Careful - all the extra effort spent avoiding the word 'woman' is going to result in carpal tunnel," another added.

"This is so offensive to women. STOP. You have become a parody," said another.

After facing backlash, the health department doubled down on the guidance in a follow-up post, denouncing criticism and encouraging people to be "positive" in the comments.

"We're here to protect and improve the health of ALL people in our state. Not every message is meant for you, but some of our messages might be meaningful for others in WA. We welcome your comments and encourage polite and productive conversation."

"We do not approve, endorse, or verify the scientific accuracy of comments posted by our followers. We encourage everyone to research health information and use vetted, reputable sources that have been scientifically reviewed for accuracy."

However, the result of that post received additional pushback with Jason Rantz, a Seattle-based conservative radio show host, saying "You don’t verify the scientific accuracy of your own tweets, though."

"So YOU get to be a misogynist, but WE have to responded POLITELY? Are you actually being serious here? NO," added another.