The founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ayatollah Khomeini, passed a fatwa in the 1980’s allowing sex change operations in the country.
Up until now - Iran’s welfare system paid a small amount toward these operations but they are very costly.
Now health insurance companies are obliged to cover all costs.
Karen Zarindast reports.
Video produced by BBC Persian’s Saeedeh Hashemi
Meanwhile, in Iran
While we’re on the subject of twitter, why does BBC World follow Lady Gaga?? Is that necessary?
