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Name: Nicole
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re: Difficulties a trans person might face - October 6th 2014, 03:00 AM

Here is an extremely rough draft. I need suggestions and criticism. Also I was having some trouble finding out accurate info about hormone replacement therapy, so if anyone can help me out, that would be lovely.
Difficulties a trans person might face
By Nicole (Pug Princess)

The concept of gender was created to be composed of two simple labels in order to categorize society, however for many people it is a very complicated process to figure out how to define oneself. Some people grow up thinking that they were born the “wrong way” because they don’t like the opposite gender which is what society deems is “correct.” In other cases, people feel that they were not born as the right gender, and that is what causes them to take steps to transition to the other gender, hence the term transexual.

Problems prior to transitioning
Many people feel confused as to whether they fit more under the girl category, or the boy category. What makes this more complicated is that gender roles can vary. For example, gay men may act more feminine, and gay women may act more masculine. This leads some people to wonder whether they should transition, or if they are just fine the way they are. The answer to this problem is that there is it depends on each person. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide whether they are comfortable as their own gender, or if it would benefit them to transition.

If an individual decides to transition, they have two options: hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or surgery.

Hormone replacement therapy when transitioning male to female includes taking estrogen which is the most common. It can be taken in combination with progestins, another type of hormone. Testosterone can also be taken. When transitioning female to male, androgens are commonly taken. Hormones typically can be taken orally, be injected, and can even come in topical creams. It’s best to speak with your doctor about what regimen would be best.

The other option, surgery, also called sex reassignment surgery, is also an option. It is important to remember there isn’t anything wrong with having this procedure done. If this option is chosen, it is likely that after the procedure hormones will be prescribed to influence the growth of breasts for mtf, or androgens to influence the growth of facial hair for ftm for example. It is difficult to find accurate statistics regarding sex reassignment surgery, however it is estimated that between 100 and 500 surgeries are done each year. The procedure is not reversible practically because it involves removing testicles for men, and removing breasts for females. It is a complicated procedure, but can be very effective in making people feel more comfortable with their decided gender.

Problems after transitioning

One of the first problems that may arise after transitioning is how friends, family, and the public will react. This tends to be fearful enough that it prevents people from ever transitioning. In reality, many people will be supportive of transitioning. The people who are judgemental or make their negative opinions about it known are the people who don’t matter. People usually disagree with what they don’t understand. That being said, talking about wanting to transition with loved ones before hand will reduce the shock factor and may give them time to get used to the idea. Often times parents have trouble coping at first because they raised their child to be a certain gender. If after transitioning your parents aren’t as supportive as you hoped, give them time. They may just need to get used to it first.

Another problem a trans person may face is not just gaining acceptance from loved ones, but also gaining acceptance when meeting new people. Transitioning may feel like it should be kept a secret when you first meet someone, however it is best to be honest and proud of the decision you made. In regards to seeking out people to date, being transgendered can also make it seem like an even more difficult process. Truth is, many people will not care if a person used to be a different gender.

Overall, the best way to cope with transitioning is to be proud of who you are. If you exert confidence, people are more likely to feel comfortable than if you are uncomfortable yourself. Transitioning is not unnatural in any way, and you’re not alone in the process. If you or anyone you know is in need of support regarding transitioning, PFLAG National is a great organization. They have over 350 groups across the nation that you can get involved with.


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Last edited by Eternal; October 6th 2014 at 04:44 PM.