New York, June 12 A decade after declaring herself to be a lesbian, Chastity Bono, daughter of singer Cher, will undergo a sex change, her publicist has confirmed.

Steps for the sex change began early this year in March, after her 40th birthday, reports The New York Daily News.

While carefully using male pronouns in context of Bono, spokesperson Howard Bragman said: "Chaz, after many years of consideration, has made the courageous decision to honor his true identity."

Chastity, the only child of Cher and late husband Sonny Bono, will have gender reassignment surgery, according to Us magazine - although Bragman declined to confirm the operation.

Meanwhile, Cher has restrained herself from making any comments on the topic.

Neil Giuliano, president of the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation, acknowledged Bono's step saying, "Coming out as a transgender is an extremely personal decision and one that is never made lightly .We look forward to hearing Chaz's story in his own words in the future." (ANI)