NationStates' Transgender Thread

[Geanna]

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CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION | EXPRESSION | TRANSGENDER | HORMONE THERAPY | PASSING & ANXIETY | RESOURCES | TERMS | Chat! |
Need to talk to someone? Click here!

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INTRODUCTION

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You've seen this in my signature, it's a rainbow banner I made, if you highlight over it, it'll display a message. Here's the code if you'd like to add it to yours as well. Cheers.

Example:

LOVEWHOYOUARE~

Code: Select all

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Greetings NSG,

Welcome to the Official, NationStates' Transgender Thread (NTT) - This thread is in some manner, a break-off of the already established LGBT Issue Thread, as well as stemming from the recent closure of the Leelah Alcorn Suicide Thread. The establishment of this thread was discussed, and following a given of the 'Green Light', NTT has been created. This thread has for the most part two main purposes;

• Firstly, this thread's role is to educate those legitimately wishing to understand more about Transgender Issues - by providing resources, studies, and other information of varying degree.
  
• Secondly, this thread is also a place for Transgender NSers to find resources, information, centres, help and other Transgender NSers of whom they can converse with. Often, one of the hardest things associated with being Transgender, is finding A) A Community or other Trans-People B) Resources or ''Where in the Hell do I even start?''.

What this Thread is not:

With these two goals in mind, as broad as they may be - this thread is not a place to flame, troll, bait or any other malicious behaviour. Such behaviour will not be tolerated.
The topics should solely retain to Transgender Issues - Intentional Derailment is considered malicious behaviour, and is subjected to the above clause of; not being tolerated. Discussions should remain PG-13 and be held to the regular rules and guides of NationStates and its user policies. In all, Discussion within the NTT should follow along three simple guidelines;

• Keep it Clean
• Keep it Sane
• Keep it Civil

Thirdly and finally, pertaining to the discussion over Transgender issues and topics - this thread is not a place to try and convert the masses or other Religious babble that does not directly pertain to the discussion at hand. This is not to say that Religion may not be discussed, however, previous instalments have resulted in rapid and sudden onset of trolling, flaming, or other malicious intentions that killed the topic, thread, or discussion as a whole.

Other behaviours that'll not be tolerated are [Prior thanks to Farn - Took the words out of my mouth or fingers as it were];

• Intentionally misgendering a person or individual after they have made it known to be referred to with their preferred personal pronoun.
• Referring to non-heterosexual persons as mentally ill or equating not being heterosexual as akin to being a paedophile.
• Discussions of religious prohibitions on non-heterosexual behaviour will be tolerated to the extent that they do not evolve into general discussions of religions or a particular religion. This is applied vice versa - Do not troll, flame, or bait members of the Religious community either.

Understanding that topics related to, associated, or otherwise pertaining to LGBT Issues, are and commonly, a hotly debated topic with strong convictions, emotions, or personal/political standings for all parties involved - Be Respectful and mindful. There are many opinions associated with this forum of discussion, as such, show well guided respect to each other as posters and users of NationStates and this thread as a whole. Obviously, not everyone shares the same opinion, express so in a manner that does not break the rules - Be Respectful. Simple.

MODEDIT: We will not tolerate deliberate misgendering of players on this forum. Now that this is clear, I want to also state that this thread has been sanctioned by myself, at least, of the moderation team. And there will be no trolling, flaming, and waltzing in to insult the participants of this thread. It is designed to help educate, assist, and discuss various issues facing people dealing with these issues. It is not a place to discuss whether or not you feel their issues are valid. Thank you.

--Nathicana, NationStates Game Moderator

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EXPRESSION

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As to clear up an further confusion;

The infographic above outlines quite well the demonstrations of several factors that make individuals who they are - commonly, or collectively referred to as one's expression. Gender Identity, or Introspective Gender Perception [Literally - How one views themselves in regards to Gender] is separate from sexuality, and sexual orientation. Gender Identity handles how an individual feels, or sees themselves as. In Binary terms, this would be either male or female - however, people can be Androgynous [In the middle] or even Agender [No specific outlined identification of gender], due to this, the original Binary format is brought into question and controversy. ¹

Sexuality, or Biological Sex [Sometimes just referred to as Sex] is the physical characteristics of an individual. Originally, this as well was construed into a binary spectrum, either female or male. The issue or complication with such thinking however, is that individuals can be born with both sexual organs and therefore are intersex. Arguments surrounding chromosomes in biology such as XX for female, and XY for male are hard to follow, there exists biological disorders or mutations where females have been born with XY, Males with XX, and been born with an extra or less than a chromosome. ¹

Sexual Orientation/Preference is what you are physically, emotionally, sexually attracted to. Typically, this is where a lot of confusion may stem when beginning to try and understand human complexity in regards to expression as a whole. The main controversy or misconception that arises, involves the inability to separate these characteristics within the spectrum as a whole and see their individual defining borders. An individual of any gender, can be Heterosexual, Bisexual, Asexual, Homosexual, Pansexual and so on.

The main confusion that comes when referring to Transgender Individuals, or other Non-Binary Gender Individuals, stems from misconceptions into actual Gender Identity, and its relation with Sexual Orientation - there isn't one. They are two distinct modes that make up Individual Expression.

An example, by definition, a Trans Female is a Female. At birth, they were physically born Male - Gender-wise, they have always identified as Female. If this individual is attracted to other females, they are homosexual/Lesbian in this case. The confusion stems around the use of Trans before the Gender, arguments especially against Transgender Individuals may stem or prey on this misconception. Such as attempts to define what a ''Real Woman/Man is'' and further exclude individuals as justification. It is important to note, that really, the only acceptable time where Transgender may be applicable is in medical records, visits, therapy - and or discussions directly pertaining to such in which a distinction may be needed.

Thanks to the complexity of Human Psyche and Persona, these issues are just now beginning to be explored - leaving such distinctions of expression up to speculation, argument and further controversy. The ''Real Woman/Man'' argument is grossly erroneous, typically the argument stems that, if an individual has to have surgery to have female genitalia, they are not a real woman. The oddity in this argument deals with the fact that intersex individuals are born, and it is hard to discern whether or not to remove the male genitalia, the female genitalia, or leave them be. Does this mean an intersex individual who identified themselves as female, removed their male genitalia and fixed their female organs, isn't a real woman?

Another common argument used is Chromosomes - XX means your female, XY means your male; However even the perception of this has come into question due to women who are and were born with Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome, born with XY chromosomes.

Other arguments may revolve around the fact of being able to procreate or bear children - or even the inability of possessing a uterus, and as a result, can not be a ''real woman''. These arguments do not take into fact, of women who are infertile, have had a hysterectomy, or were born with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome, women who were born without a uterus.

The arguments revolving around the issue of having to have surgery to produce female organs [SRS and Labioplasty] therefore would exclude one from being a ''Real woman'' - this argument as well, fails to take into account of women born with vaginal agenesis; a condition where one is born without a fully formed vagina, completely, or partially, and required vaginoplasty and labioplasty to create one. In fact it may become possible to surgically implant a fully working womb into a trans individual to allow them to actually birth children. A woman born with MRKH syndrome successfully had a womb implanted, and was able to become the first woman to carry a child to term and give birth.

In conclusion, Gender Identity, Gender Expression, Biological Sex, and Sexual Orientation are all separate fields that collectively form one's Individual Expression - they are still subjected to much scrutiny and controversy, even as studies continue to unearth more and challenge the original spectrums associated with Binary Expression.

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TRANSGENDER

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What is Transgender Identity?: Transgender Identity, or being Transgender is defined as having or being in a state, where one's Gender Identity does not match or correlate to one's physical or otherwise assigned sex. In more basic terms, a physically born Male may feel, or otherwise associate one's self to be that of Female, or vice versa. In many cases, this can be a cause for great mounts of stress, anxiety, or depression when one tries to conform to expected gender roles in correlation with the perception of their assigned sex.

Often, these feelings of anxiety and depression can result in more severe cases of both, including an increase to suicidal tendencies, nightmares, and eventual emotional and mental fatigue. 'Negative attitudes, and stigma aimed towards the LGBT community and individuals' puts individuals at a higher risk of violence, isolation, depression and suicide. Studies point to a whopping 41% rate of attempted suicide of young transgender or adolescent individuals identifying as transgender.

Studies into Transgender identities have only recently begun - much is unknown about how one becomes transgender. Due to social stigmatization, it is even unknown of how much of the population is transgender. Numerous theories and studies have been provided to attempt to prove, or otherwise discover how an individual can become or otherwise be transgender - the topic, being hotly debated, has even brought into question the binary polarization model of gender identity [Either Male or Female]. Theories over hormones and exposure to such in the womb, brain development, external stimuli [such as trauma at a young age], including possible psychological factors, have all been used - some providing actual results, however, in truth, it is still unknown or up for speculation within the scientific community.

The discussion and controversies even surrounding whether or not Transgender Identity is a 'mental disorder' is hotly debated. A psychological state that inhibits, distresses, or causes major disability is considered a 'mental disorder' - the arguments for and against this classification still continue. Often, transgender individuals only hold such signs in response to social stigmatization, or inability to be accepted within society as their preferred gender. Finding applicable resources, support, and affordable modes to express one's identity has been proven to reduce these stresses - thus, technically throwing out the definition of a 'mental disorder'.

The argument revolves around the DSM5's classification of 'Gender Dysphoria'-

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), people who experience intense, persistent gender incongruence can be given the diagnosis of "gender dysphoria." Some contend that the diagnosis inappropriately pathologizes gender noncongruence and should be eliminated. Others argue that it is essential to retain the diagnosis to ensure access to care. The International Classification of Diseases (ICD) is under revision and there may be changes to its current classification of intense persistent gender incongruence as "gender identity disorder."

What do you do if you identify as being Transgender?: This is often a major question that lingers with Transgender individuals. What is to be done, or where to even start in addressing one's gender identity. The first steps should be A) Research, B) Looking for a Transgender Therapist. Misconceptions may revolve around Transgender therapy, being held as inherently bias - specifically coming from the religious community, and the arguments revolving around Conversion Therapy v Transgender Therapy. This issue was specifically brought to light with the recent suicide of Leelah Alcorn on December 28th, 2014. ¹ - ²

The Suicide of [Leelah Alcorn (Born as Joshua Alcorn) November 15, 1997 – December 28, 2014(17)] brought not only national attention but global attention to Transgender issues. The outlash by the LGBT Community was swift, within days a petition on Change.org asking for POTUS to instate ''Leelah's Law'' to ban Conversion Therapy had garnered over 200,000 signatures. and has been considered the fastest growing petition of 2014.

The resulting suicide and public light of the issue brought forth the controversies surrounding religion, LGBT, and conversion therapy. Conversion therapy is the act or practise of attempting to make an LGBT individual give up their sexual orientation[Make them straight/heterosexual], or give up their gender identity in regards to transgender individuals. Conversion therapy has been deemed harmful. ^{1 -2}

Transgender therapy is the best option in seeking appropriate treatment - although regular therapy is an option, therapists and psychologists may direct an individual of whom, is grappling with Gender Dysphoria; to a Transgender specialist or therapist anyway. Transgender therapy focuses on two modes of handling a transgender individual - the first is the anxiety and depression associated with these feelings. Typically, WPATH dictates that at least 3 months of therapy should be required before a formal diagnosis. A Transgender Therapist will work with you to understand these feelings, and to provide the appropriate resources in handling feelings associated with being transgender, [Anxiety & Depression]. Medical exams may be requested to rule out any cerebral defects or abnormalities [such as a Brain Tumour] in order to rule out a possible physical cause.

Following the criteria by WPATH and guidelines, the therapist then may decide whether or not transition would be the best option. If transition is decided, and all other external, or physical causes for the behaviour or feelings is ruled out, a blood test and a meeting with an endrocrinologist or another specialist in hormone therapy will be requested. It is extremely important to note, that not all Transgender individuals feel the overwhelming need to transition. Some do not, some may only receive HRT and never follow through with SRS. Therapy should always be the first step however, as obtaining hormones or SRS is virtually impossible without a written note.

It is important to research as much as possible, a therapist may deny a transition if the individual is not familiar with Trans issues, HRT, or other information relating to such. Research different regimens of HRT, SRS, Therapy, Support groups, LGBT Centers, risks and dangers, et cetera. Following therapy, a blood test is needed to further decide on the right hormone regimen and to rule out possible contra-indicators, medical family history should be provided, and screening for certain diseases or indicators of underlying conditions is important in what type of HRT an individual will receive. It is imperative that an individual be honest - as the wrong HRT regimen can increase risks for certain diseases or conditions including Deep Vein Thrombosis, Stroke, Cardiac Failure, or other conditions.

When looking for a Transgender Therapist or LGBT Specialised Therapist, it is important to note that many different centres have varying costs. Some centres have even been known to provide free therapy, though almost all are willing to work with an individual and their payment plan to ensure affordability. Thus why research is important. There are other ways to receive hormones or HRT - However, such methods are not recommended, without proper blood screening, it is possible to administer the wrong, or too much or little of the appropriate regimen and lead to physical complications, harm, or even death.

Therapy may continue during HRT to assist in handling the changes in the body, and transgender related anxiety or depression. Routine blood screenings are usually needed over a period of 2-3 years to check hormone levels, and ensure there are no complications developing from the regimen. SRS, or Sexual Reassignment Surgery is an option as well for Transgender Individuals who are transitioning, this option should be considered last as this surgery is permanent and irreversible. It is imperative to note, that not all Transgender individuals will seek out SRS, deeming it not necessary, SRS and labioplasty are also very expensive - there are only a handful of qualified surgeons world-wide capable of performing the surgery.

SRS has advanced quite well - to the extent with now set guidelines on how to perform the surgery, it is possible for example, that not even a gynaecologist could tell the difference between a woman's vagina, and a trans woman's vagina at a glance, [the vagina in a trans woman will be slightly shallower [less deep]]. However, as far as SRS has advanced, it is not without risks or serious complications, and must be an option considered lastly and thoroughly.

It is extremely important to note that the effects of HRT on the body vary from person to person. Breast development in MtF typically does not exceed C-Cup, in which case, some Transgender Individuals will pursue breast augmentation [Implants]. HRT redistributes fat in the body, the effects of HRT, and how well the body responds to treatment depends on height, weight, and other biological factors. Typically, those who have more fat, may see better results as the body has more to work with.

HRT will not affect bone-structure, hair-growth along the face, legs, buttocks, back, or armpits may become softer and lighter in colour. For some individuals, hair growth may slow or stop completely on the face, back, and/or buttocks. In other cases, laser hair removal may be optimum to permanently remove the hair. For those who may have a significant adam's apple, a tracheal shave may be an option worth exploring. Other surgeries can be performed along the face if necessary to reduce masculine or feminine features, it is important that these options are reserved later in transition as they are irreversible. In all, affects from HRT may be seen as early as 2 months - undergoing HRT will put the body through a ''second puberty'' - and typically lasts 2-3 years.

In simple, things to be considered or good places to start can be applied into a list;

• Research, Research, Research - Know everything you can
• Look for a Transgender Therapist, or one who specialises in LGBT issues/Look for support groups as well
• Start considering how far you want to transition - Take HRT regimen/Work on voice if necessary
• If you haven't come out already, start to - buy clothing, make-up, et cetera.
• Be Patient - the process is not instant, every step counts
• Consider surgeries if desired, Tracheal shave, plastic surgery, botox, breast augmentation, SRS and labioplasty

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HORMONETHERAPY

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Once Therapy has concluded and decided that transitioning may be best for an individual, it is possible for Medicare or one's health plan to actually pay for the treatment. Although DSM5 lists Transgender Identity as ''Gender Dysphoria'', this is due in part, that in order to receive treatment, the condition must be formally recognised and listed. Now, health plans have in the past tried to deny to supplement or pay for HRT - deeming it as ''cosmetic''. This is now usually superceded by the Therapists, or primary healthcare physicians by writing down ''Hormone Imbalance'', in which case the health plan will pay what is expected on it.

Research into HRT is extremely important, and advisory against self-medicating hormones should be equally noted. There are far greater risks and dangers associated with improperly handling, using/taking, and regulating hormones on ones-self. It is important to understand the risks associated with these medications, and ensure that proper blood screening is provided. Some clinics even offer free blood screening, [this may vary greatly in region to region].

Many transgender individuals want immediate results, it is important to understand that hormones will not have an immediate appearance on the body. Typically, the first signs appear on average at around 4-6 months, however, this largely depends on numerous biological factors associated with the user of HRT. HRT effectively puts the body through a ''Second Puberty'', for MTFs, this means that the body will abruptly begin to stop or slow testosterone production, for FTMs, estrogen will be greatly affected. Mood Swings, depression, anxiety, and other behavioural responses associated with regular puberty will be experienced and lasts for 1-2 years.

The first signs of HRT will involve the hair and skin, and may produce as early as 2 months for some. Depending on MTF/FTM, the breast area may become increasingly sore and tender to the touch - [this pain is experienced in adolescent girls when reaching puberty]. Hair may soften and lighten, or in the case of FTM, darken. Once HRT induced puberty begins and enters into the middle and late stages, one's body will experience redistribution of fat and restructuring of several areas on the body. The face and body will become more feminine or masculine depending on MTF/FTM - due to HRT, some conditional risks [such as Congestive Heart Failure, Stroke, DVT] associated with the opposite sex may increase to the opposite sex's levels. An example, DVT is a condition that commonly affects women more than men, for MTF, the risks of this condition may increase to what is expected of women's levels of risks. It is important to visit and take blood screenings to ensure these risks are managed.

It is suggested, that therapy continue through-out transition to deal with the related emotional swings typically associated with puberty. After about 8-12 months, a person may begin to cool down emotionally as the body adjusts to the new hormones. Below is a diagram listed with abbreviations such as HRT, HRTII, MTF - these are quick guides or information to further understand HRT and its affects, and help you on understanding what to expect.

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PASSINGANDANXIETY

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Passing may sound like an odd term at the start - essentially, Passing is literally passing as your preferred gender. Usually, transgender individuals pass relatively easily, many people have walked around, spoke, or seen transgender individuals and never even known. Passing depends on several factors such as body language indicators ['ticks'], expression, affects of HRT on the body, voice, make-up and even how one thinks or speaks. However, some individuals do not pass so easily, this is in part to having to, until now, being sheltered and intentionally trying to suppress one's expression, thoughts, and feelings.

Passing and tips to pass are helpful to these individuals, it becomes essential to learn how to unchain and no longer suppress these. Anxiety is extremely rampant among the Transgender Community, it is understandable, however, in order to tackle post-transition anxiety - one needs to understand that the past is the past. It is imperative to note that what happened in the past, must remain there, transitioning is merely opening yourself up into who you are - if you can't let go of the past, you will never be able to successfully move forwards.

There are transgender individuals who've transitioned, and have never grasped this - although they have become who they are, they suffer from consistent anxiety. This is also why it is extremely important to seek a specialist capable of handling LGBT issues. Anxiety from fear of being ''found out'' - may sound odd, but it does exist. The thing that needs to be considered here, is that one shouldn't fear of being ''found out'' - You are you, there are no more walls or facades, take time to think about that.

Transitioning is hard, it is very hard - What makes it hard? An individual suddenly, and rather abruptly, must face emotions long suppressed. This is how Anxiety works, when a person feels an emotion they do not wish to feel or handle, they try to shove it aside. Attempting to bottle this emotion can trigger anxiety, the brain mistakes that there is danger and throws you into fight or flight mode, the body begins flooding adrenaline. You suddenly feel extremely anxious, you're losing your mind, you feel like you're going crazy - or you're about to die. Your thoughts race, and every little sensation suddenly is amplified, you may feel paranoid, feel every ache, start to try and control your breathing. You may ask yourself, ''Why am I feeling this? Why did that hurt?'' - This is an anxiety attack.

How often does this happen - and after a few hours you feel fine? That should be your first indicator. When did you feel this? Was it after you thought something? After you did something? That should be another indicator that it is anxiety. It is very possible to suffer from run away anxiety - where you have an anxiety attack in response to emotion, thoughts, pain - then eventually, you start having anxiety over why you're having anxiety - this becomes a vicious cycle and can develop into Generalized Anxiety Disorder.

The main cause for anxiety attacks, is that the brain misinterprets that you are in real danger, the body begins to pump in adrenaline, leaving Fight or Flight up to your decisions. The reason one feels every sensation, their breathing, the blood pulsing in their head, the butterflies in ones stomach - is a cognitive response known as meta-conscious. Meta-consciousness is a typical symptom of anxiety, characterised by a sudden onset of extreme self-awareness over surroundings, body, thoughts. This is why people suffering extreme anxiety may pass out from hyperventilation, they attempt to control breathing, breathe too shallow in fear that they are going to suffocate, and deprive the body of oxygen. Of course, once you pass out, breathing resets and everything goes back to normal.

Once you take your mind off of your anxiety, the attack subsides and you're left feeling the affects of unused adrenaline and stress. This is where GAD may kick in, you may begin to suddenly ask yourself why you feel fatigued, why you have a headache - this can cause a second anxiety attack, this time over your own anxiety. Thus, run away anxiety - The problem lies in the adrenaline, there is no danger present, and thus the body does not use this adrenaline, following an anxiety attack you may feel the symptoms of minor adrenaline fatigue. Anxiety takes a physical toll on your body, clenching muscles in the back and around the neck puts pressure on nerves and blood vessels, this can lead to tension headaches, twitches, burning sensations in the scalp, flustered face [red face], hot flashes once blood returns.

If you experience an anxiety attack, exercise - exercising is, very good for people with anxiety or depression. It is especially good for anxiety attacks, running, walking, any type of physical exertion causes the body to use up adrenaline, and the brain to release endorphins. This causes reactions within the body, and releases stress. Exercise is also a good way to prevent further anxiety attacks that correlate to run away anxiety.

It is imperative to learn how to stop anxiety attacks, and anxiety - passing and transitioning will be much easier for you. This Guide will be extremely helpful to you, in attacking your anxiety, and ensuring that it no longer runs your life. The first step to tackling your anxiety, is to stop bottling emotion. Often this is very hard, you may have emotions bottled for over a decade - it may be hard to cry, or even remotely try to feel them, but it is a must.

Nobody likes sadness or hurt, they are very unpleasant emotions - emotions associated with being Trans are no different, they make you feel uncomfortable - you don't want to feel them, you may be afraid that if you do, you'll lose control, people will see you cry. This thinking is detrimental, you may think anxiety protects you, but that thinking needs to cease. The important thing to know, is that you are in control, if you can honestly ask yourself if you're going crazy, you're probably not. Your body is overwhelmed with stress and you're in the row of an anxiety attack.

Understanding that anxiety isn't a good thing to have, is a good start to curbing your anxiety attacks. As the guide linked mentions, the more you try to ignore an emotion or thought, the harder it is. The more energy it requires to push it off to the side each time. In order to pass and handle transition you must face these thoughts and feelings, they are apart of you, and it's natural to feel them - it doesn't make you weak, or crazy. Simply observe them if possible, meditation and learning how to be introspective - [Looking into yourself], will give you a greater understanding of your thoughts and feelings.

''I am sad'' - Why are you sad? - These are observant questions that may prove useful when you feel an emotion, it's like a pep-talk to yourself, without even really doing it. Every time you feel an emotion, ask yourself why you're feeling it. What had happened to make you feel that way, be open with your emotions. Find someone to talk to, talking with someone about how you feel can be extremely helpful in tackling the feelings, and anxiety associated with it.

Once you begin to transition, this will become important, you will need to dismantle every wall, facade you've put up over the years, and light the fire under those thoughts and feelings you've attempted to suppress. This is what is known as gender expression - be you.

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RESOURCES

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There's now an IRC Channel!

Channel: #NSTrans on Esper.net

These are links I have compiled over passing, and other tips that may be helpful.

Anxiety Help Guide
Anxiety Resource Guides
Anxiety Guide
Anxiety Resource
Anxiety Resources

Make-up
Make-up
Make-up

FTM Clothing Tips
FTM Clothing Tips
FTM Resources
FTM Passing Tips
MTF Passing Tips
MTF Passing Tips
MTF Passing Tips
Passing Tips

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This is an extensive list of resources and links I have compiled for those looking for help or guidance.

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RESOURCES FOR THOSE FEELING DEPRESSED OR SUICIDAL
TRANS LIFE LINE

Suicide rates for Transgender individuals are exceptionally high. It is hard, however, that is why this thread now exists. So you can reach out and find others, or resources, or help in coping with these feelings. Take some time before ever doing anything permanent, and take a look at the links above.

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People to contact if you need to talk:
Feel free to Telegram these people if you need someone to talk to, or have questions or concerns. All information is provided in the mutual understanding of confidentiality, and will not be subjected to any further breach of this understanding without the express consent of those involved. Please note, that we are not therapists, psychologists, or counsellors, we're merely people willing to devote our time to give you someone to talk to, we do not replace these specialists.

Geanna
Androgyne

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Grenartia
Androgyne, Pansexual, Christian

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Furry Alairia and Algeria
Bi-gender, Bi-sexual [Androphilic Leaning], Furry [Deer]

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Nature-Spirits
Gay, Genderfluid, Non-Binary

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Val Halla
TransFemme, Bisexual, Also British.

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Common Misconceptions
More Misconceptions
Even More Misconceptions

GLAAD Trans Resources
Human Rights Campaign Trans Resources
Pflag Trans Resources
Susan's Place Trans Resources
Trans Student Resources
Trans Equality Resources
Unitarian Universalist Association Trans Resources
Glad Trans Resources [PDF]
CDC Trans Resources
Michigan State University Trans Resources
GLSEN Trans Resources
TYFA Trans Resources
Welcoming Resources - Trans Resources
Trans Student Graphics
Wikihow Tips for Transitioning [MTF]
Wikihow Tips for Transitioning [FTM]
CAMH HRT Resources [MTF][PDF]
TS Road Map HRT Resources
Trans Health HRT Resources
Wikipedia MTF HRT Information
Wikipedia FTM HRT Information
Michele Omara MTF HRT Information
Transgender Care HRT&Medical Information
Advocates For Youth Where to Start
Human Rights Campaign Coming out in the workplace
Wikihow tips for coming out
LGBT Youth - Coming Out Guide [PDF]

Trans WebComics

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Validation
The Incredible Adventures of Stephie
Chaos Life
SPG The Comic
TRANSform and roll out
TransGirl Next Door
What's Normal Anyway
Venus Envy Comic
Misfile
TransGirl Diaries
Trans Schizophrenic
Closet Space
Rain LGBT
Wild Flowers
Roostertails Comic

YouTube Vlogs, Timelines, Resources

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Male-to-Female Vloggers

Letsflybutterfly
Bunny Bennet
Princess Joules
GiGi
Autumn
Jordan
Female-to-Male Vloggers

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East
Mark
Kim
Benton

MTF 14 Month Transition

Ted Talks: Gender fluidity: A parent talks about and challenges the gender binary. She doesn't really distinguish between gender and gender expression, and a couple of times says "sex identity", but her overall message is good.

Ted Talks: My princess boy: A parent talks about gender expression and acceptance.

Ted Talks: Born that way?: A parent and gender scholar talks about how the gender binary is reinforced in our society.

Ted Talks: Why am I so gay?: A gay man talks about the queer experience and identity, as well as queer activism. He's cisgender, but I think his words apply to the trans* community as well.

Ted Talks: Hey Doc, some boys are born girls: A transman talks about the transgender experience.

Gender Talk: Amateur Talk-show hosted by Transgender Individuals, and revolving around Transgender Identity and issues pertaining to such.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=suSIM0EQnYY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7yZo0qtNs_k
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qn5q9i1mvjs
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvAClyCwZvU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TtMkIq4q3bw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=imC94W79-iQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7yZo0qtNs_k
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=brHoyB9sNoM

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Others links of Interests, Information, or Use

Transman Importance of Top-Surgery
Trans-Ally and Action

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Clarification on terms:

Trans-Woman: A trans-woman, or trans-female is an individual who, at birth was assigned as a male - but identifies as female.

Trans-Man: A trans-man, or trans-male is an individual who, at birth was assigned as a female - but identifies as male.

Androgyne: Being, or existing in a state between Male and Female, as a combination of both to varying degrees. Also called Gender Neutral, or Bigender

Agender: Being, or existing in a state that is outside, or void of gender introspection of either Male or Female.

Non-Binary: Being, or existing in a state that is outside of the binary of Male or Female, but not void of gender introspection.

HRT: Hormone Replacement Therapy - Medication or treatments used to rebalance hormones within the body to the levels of the gender preferred, and in doing so, create reactions within the body to make one appear more female or male.

SRS: Sexual Reassignment Surgery - Surgery used by Trans* to re-design genitalia to that of the opposite sex.

Vaginoplasty: Surgery, [used in SRS], that forms a working vagina

Labioplasty: Surgery, [used in SRS], that forms the labia

---

Personal Note - I plan to continue expanding on the OP with updated resources, links and information. As always, be civil with each other.

---

Planned Updates:
Perpetual Improvement!!~
MOAR coffee
MOAR LINKS
MOAR INFO
Reformats for Functionality and Aesthetics

Updates:

Edit 61: Added the channel name and server for those who already have IRC and don't want to click on the box ~ Euro
Edit 60: Yo dawg, I heard you like messed up syntax so we fixed your syntax - Earthlings love syntax. Fixed pesky [b] code
Edit 59: Added Gren to People to Contact section
Edit 58: Added Edit 58
Edit 57: Added Val Halla to People to Contact section
Edit 56: Updated update list because I forgot to update the updates when I was updating for updating updates.
Edit 55: Updated Furr's Contact thing
Edit 54: Added 'People to Contact'
Edit 53: Replaced Transgenderism with 'Transgender Identity'
Edit 52: Had to spell colour the American way because BBC code doesn't like me
Edit 51: Expansion of Terms, will continue to update.
Edit 50: Exchanged colour formats
Edit 49: Updated HRT section with new click boxes!
Edit 48: Removed Poll
Edit 47: Added Chat into Contents at the top
Edit 46: Added Chat and Redirect
Edit 45: Changed 'Transgenderism' to 'Transgender Identity' to remove possible negative connotations in association with -ism and Transgender
Edit 44: Fixed duplicate '41 Edits'
Edit 43: Added further Comics, [i]Validation, and The Incredible Adventures of Stephie
Edit 42: Fixed syntax (again, bloody align tags - it's like CSS for NS, a bit less of a headache, but still annoying, stupid code should know what my mind wants)
Edit 41: Added MTF Vlogger, Letsflybutterfly
Edit 40: Fixed syntax - Expunged, Dispelled, and Terminated the rebellious peasants.
Edit 39: Added Spirit's Ted Talk's contributions, along with Gender Talk Radio - increased size of Content Table Tabs, added YouTube and Radio to resources.
Edited 38: Added Gren's link over Trans-ally
Edit 37: Edited to update updates because of forgetting to update updates while editing for edit 36 -Confused are we?
Edit 36: Added Nathi's link and section in resources
Edit 35: Shifted Nathi's Mod Edit upwards
Edit 34: Added IRC
Edit 33: Fixed syntax
Edit 32: Fixed Term anchor
Edit 31: Added Nature-Spirit's anchor/table of contens code batch, who was nice enough to do so - fixed a cup of tea, because Irish; Added SPG Comic, and TRANSform (and roll out) comic, added Chaos Life comic, added Bunney Bennet to YouTube list of MTF Trans Vloggers, added and fleshed out terms
Edit 30: Added Fabulous Rainicorns addition to comic section
Edit 28-29: Fixed Format issues
Edit 27: Added Rainbow Banner Signature Code
Edit 26: Fixed title error on Closet Space comic
Edit 25: Spoilered sections from Gren's idea to allow more aesthetic and usability.
Edit 24: Added NFP's comic link
Edit 23: Fixed Syntax
Edit 22: Fixed a cup of coffee, moved RESOURCES tag down
Edit 21: Fixed Syntax
Edit 20: Categorised links from Grenartia - left cupcake for Nathi, Added Transgender tips for Beauty and Passing, Fixed formatting for aesthetics and usability.
Edit 19: Edited in Grenartia's links, removed size emphasis on Modedit (~Nathicana)
Edit 18: Edited Firstly clause over purposes for thread following an issue with a poster.
Edit 17: Added more vloggers [FTM]
Edit 16: Moved gif position further down
Edit 15: Added aesthetic graphic [gif] that cycles every 5 seconds
Edit 13 and 14: Fixed syntax errors
Edit 12: Added further information on HRT in HORMONES.
Edit 11: Added clause in ''Expressions'' of Real World Applicational use of 'Transgender'
Edit 9-10: Fixed formatting ~ added hr tags
Edit: 8: Added another Transition Timeline Link
Edit 7: Added ''Expression''
Edit 1-6: Fixed spelling mistakes

[The Conez Imperium]

Very nicely designed thread. Just curious, if Humans can have sexual preferences for both sexes. Is it possible for a person to have the mentality of both sexes?

[Geanna]

Very nicely designed thread. Just curious, if Humans can have sexual preferences for both sexes. Is it possible for a person to have the mentality of both sexes?

Supposedly possible - this theory breaks the typical binary association between Female and Male Gender identity and their correlation to several factors such as the brain, physical, and biological characteristics. Physically, if we're to incorporate male and female sex - people have been born into inter-sex, literally having both sexual reproductive organs. The direct correlation of genitalia, and its relationship with retrospective gender perception is debated, as such many of these remain as theories - the study resulting in the discover that Zhou et al(1995 IIRC) was that Transgender individuals, do through brain structure, possess similar sized or relative structures similar to the opposite gender. However, this is still debated - further more extensive studies are needed.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?te ... id=7477289

[Dumb Ideologies]

Very nicely designed thread. Just curious, if Humans can have sexual preferences for both sexes. Is it possible for a person to have the mentality of both sexes?

In terms of gender identity, I can confirm that yes they do

My female identification is a bit stronger than my male identification though, so I'm probably not the best example. But yeah, it's certainly around, even if the easiest place to find out about it is the much-maligned tumblr

[Geanna]

Very nicely designed thread. Just curious, if Humans can have sexual preferences for both sexes. Is it possible for a person to have the mentality of both sexes?

In terms of gender identity, I can confirm that yes they do

My female identification is a bit stronger than my male identification though, so I'm probably not the best example. But yeah, it's certainly around, even if the easiest place to find out about it is the much-maligned tumblr

I've met plenty of androgynes out of the internet. It's interesting how when you look for them, suddenly they're everywhere.

[WestRedMaple]

Very well-written and informative OP, but I do find one point of disagreement:

Sexuality and Gender: Sexuality and Gender are two different things. Gender focuses on the identity of one towards themselves, or retrospective gender perception. Sexuality is how one identifies when being attracted, typically sexually. Transgender individuals can in fact be, Heterosexual, Homosexual, Bisexual, Pansexual, or even Asexual. This is where many people get confused.

If a TransWoman is attracted to women, She is Lesbian [Homosexual]
If a TransWoman is attracted to men, She is Straight [Heterosexual]
If a TransWoman is attracted to men and women, She is Bisexual
If a TransMan is attracted to women, He is Straight [Heterosexual]
If a TransMan is attracted to men, He is Gay [Homosexual]

The sexuality in homosexuality, heterosexuality, bisexuality, etc is not based on gender, but rather on sex. Being sexually attracted to someone based on their gender is a thing, but not a thing described by those words.

That's also how agender people can be heterosexual, bisexual, homosexual, etc.....because those words are based on sex, rather than gender(which agender people lack).

Example: a male, sexually attracted only to females, is heterosexual. The gender of any of those people is not really relevant to the concept.

[Edgy Opinions]

I'm surprised that there's no non-binary or genderqueer poll choice.

[Edgy Opinions]

The sexuality in homosexuality, heterosexuality, bisexuality, etc is not based on gender, but rather on sex.

That is what cis people often say it is, but really, trans men attract me just as much as cis men even if there's no recognizable sign of transition.

Perhaps you should look for gynophilia and androphilia, that refers to attraction to genitals (and, perhaps, the related phenotype with it).

[Arcanda]

I used to be very feminine before I turned older.Long hair, very polite, well.Strangers often thought I was a girl, and I prefer not to talk about how was school for me.Lol.I always considered myself male because I was born this way and I was never being attracted to changing, but I did ask myself questions about my true identity when people thought I was female ^^

Sexuality and Gender: Sexuality and Gender are two different things. Gender focuses on the identity of one towards themselves, or retrospective gender perception. Sexuality is how one identifies when being attracted, typically sexually. Transgender individuals can in fact be, Heterosexual, Homosexual, Bisexual, Pansexual, or even Asexual. This is where many people get confused.

If a TransWoman is attracted to women, She is Lesbian [Homosexual]
If a TransWoman is attracted to men, She is Straight [Heterosexual]
If a TransWoman is attracted to men and women, She is Bisexual
If a TransMan is attracted to women, He is Straight [Heterosexual]
If a TransMan is attracted to men, He is Gay [Homosexual]

Well, first, I apologize for my ignorance.But if a transwoman, who has changed to man, is attracted to women, wouldn't that make *him* heterosexual ?

[Geanna]

Very well-written and informative OP, but I do find one point of disagreement:

Sexuality and Gender: Sexuality and Gender are two different things. Gender focuses on the identity of one towards themselves, or retrospective gender perception. Sexuality is how one identifies when being attracted, typically sexually. Transgender individuals can in fact be, Heterosexual, Homosexual, Bisexual, Pansexual, or even Asexual. This is where many people get confused.

If a TransWoman is attracted to women, She is Lesbian [Homosexual]
If a TransWoman is attracted to men, She is Straight [Heterosexual]
If a TransWoman is attracted to men and women, She is Bisexual
If a TransMan is attracted to women, He is Straight [Heterosexual]
If a TransMan is attracted to men, He is Gay [Homosexual]

The sexuality in homosexuality, heterosexuality, bisexuality, etc is not based on gender, but rather on sex. Being sexually attracted to someone based on their gender is a thing, but not a thing described by those words.

That's also how agender people can be heterosexual, bisexual, homosexual, etc.....because those words are based on sex, rather than gender(which agender people lack).

Example: a male, sexually attracted only to females, is heterosexual. The gender of any of those people is not really relevant to the concept.

Indeed - being that the thread was built around focusing on Transgender issues and topics specifically [an umbrella term in reality] - I wanted to try and clear up one of the most confusing things I have long heard from people, involving sexuality and being transgender. Things along the lines or in regards to the misconception that a TransWoman who is attracted to another woman is straight. People become confused throwing the Transgender title out there.

In reality, Gender-wise, applying TransWoman or TransMan I don't see appropriate since the individual was always female or male. If you're a TransWoman - you were always female. If you see what I mean. People have the tendency to think, ''Well you had male parts - but you like women, so doesn't that really make you straight?'' No - it makes you lesbian, you were always female. Basically, there's an issue in separating Gender and Sex - I suppose I could better word it and will work on that section more thoroughly.

[Geanna]

I'm surprised that there's no non-binary or genderqueer poll choice.

Damn! I knew I forgot to add some! Thanks *leaves cake*

[Edgy Opinions]

Well, first, I apologize for my ignorance.But if a transwoman, who has changed to man, is attracted to women, wouldn't that make *him* heterosexual ?

Trans women are those who identify as women. So, a femsexual trans woman is lesbian.

Trans men are those who identify as men. So, a femsexual trans man is hetero.

Non-binary folks are those who identify with a gender other than just male or just female, or with none of them. A femsexual non-binary person generally can't pick between describing themself as hetero or homosexual, albeit some do according to their own personal purposes.

[Val Halla]

Considering that I am gender irrelevant (or whatever the technical term is), here is how I think of it. Misgendering a transgender person is just the same as misgendering somebody who is not transgender. But hey, this is the internet, my opinion is irrelevant.

[Edgy Opinions]

I'm surprised that there's no non-binary or genderqueer poll choice.

Damn! I knew I forgot to add some! Thanks *leaves cake*

Please let me pick 3 or 4 choices now - I'm trans, non-binary, genderqueer, and identify with a specific non-binary gender.

[Edgy Opinions]

Considering that I am gender irrelevant (or whatever the technical term is), here is how I think of it. Misgendering a transgender person is just the same as misgendering somebody who is not transgender. But hey, this is the internet, my opinion is irrelevant.

While it might hurt as much if we disregard the average differences about people's individual narratives, the intention would still be different.

A man would have his masculinity questioned. A woman would have her femininity questioned. Trans people would in that situation be implicitly called fake, liar, disturbed, among other bigoted things.

And all of that has different weights according to different prejudices. Some people suffer more than others with that. Trans people in general have to deal with a lot of transphobia in their lives even before they come out. So there's that.

[Geanna]

I used to be very feminine before I turned older.Long hair, very polite, well.Strangers often thought I was a girl, and I prefer not to talk about how was school for me.Lol.I always considered myself male because I was born this way and I was never being attracted to changing, but I did ask myself questions about my true identity when people thought I was female ^^

Sexuality and Gender: Sexuality and Gender are two different things. Gender focuses on the identity of one towards themselves, or retrospective gender perception. Sexuality is how one identifies when being attracted, typically sexually. Transgender individuals can in fact be, Heterosexual, Homosexual, Bisexual, Pansexual, or even Asexual. This is where many people get confused.

If a TransWoman is attracted to women, She is Lesbian [Homosexual]
If a TransWoman is attracted to men, She is Straight [Heterosexual]
If a TransWoman is attracted to men and women, She is Bisexual
If a TransMan is attracted to women, He is Straight [Heterosexual]
If a TransMan is attracted to men, He is Gay [Homosexual]

Well, first, I apologize for my ignorance.But if a transwoman, who has changed to man, is attracted to women, wouldn't that make *him* heterosexual ?

I unintentionally created some confusion here - Basically - a person or individual who has transitioned from Male to Female, is a Transgendered Female/Woman. If they are attracted to women, then they would thus be homosexual/lesbian in this case.

I don't really like using the term Transgender Female/Male, because you were always Female/Male. I'm working on how to better word that.

[Fanosolia]

Well that explained a bit to me and I'll read more into the misconspections when I can. I'm actually surprised there's a hormone replacement thearpy, just the fact that's possible.

And ways in the poll. I picked male because that's what identify as but also picked the explain one because I don't see feminine or masculine that well. Well, I do to a point, but not in the way that some items/action are male or female only.

[Arcturus Novus]

This is the most thorough and informative OP I've seen in my 3 years of being on the site. Kudos, Geanna.

Also, I'm incredibly happy to see non-binary listed as one of the poll options. Not many people acknowledge NB genders.

[Edgy Opinions]

I unintentionally created some confusion here - Basically - a person or individual who has transitioned from Male to Female, is a Transgendered Female/Woman. If they are attracted to women, then they would thus be homosexual/lesbian in this case.

I don't really like using the term Transgender Female/Male, because you were always Female/Male. I'm working on how to better word that.

Transgendered implies action, transgender is an adjective.

I very much prefer just trans, though, because transgender is not choice for umbrella term.

[Geanna]

I'm going to create a new section separating Gender, Sexuality, and Sexual Orientation since I created some confusion. Sorry

[Geanna]

This is the most thorough and informative OP I've seen in my 3 years of being on the site. Kudos, Geanna.

Also, I'm incredibly happy to see non-binary listed as one of the poll options. Not many people acknowledge NB genders.

Haha, thanks!

[Edgy Opinions]

@Geanna, you might find helpful in your edits:

viewtopic.php?f=20&t=325989&p=23024766#p23024766

viewtopic.php?f=20&t=284655&p=22954015#p22954015

[Dread Lady Nathicana]

A brief note - I added my approval of the thread to the OP, and cleaned out the recent hiccup someone opted to toss in. Hopefully, things will progress more smoothly. If there is a problem, or someone is coming in here to stir things up, please report it in Moderation. Thank you.

[Edgy Opinions]

@Geanna, you might find helpful in your edits:

viewtopic.php?f=20&t=325989&p=23024766#p23024766

viewtopic.php?f=20&t=284655&p=22954015#p22954015

This one, too: viewtopic.php?p=22866400#p22866400

A brief note - I added my approval of the thread to the OP, and cleaned out the recent hiccup someone opted to toss in. Hopefully, things will progress more smoothly. If there is a problem, or someone is coming in here to stir things up, please report it in Moderation. Thank you.

Noted.

[Arcanda]

Well, first, I apologize for my ignorance.But if a transwoman, who has changed to man, is attracted to women, wouldn't that make *him* heterosexual ?

Trans women are those who identify as women. So, a femsexual trans woman is lesbian.

Trans men are those who identify as men. So, a femsexual trans man is hetero.

Non-binary folks are those who identify with a gender other than just male or just female, or with none of them. A femsexual non-binary person generally can't pick between describing themself as hetero or homosexual, albeit some do according to their own personal purposes.

I used to be very feminine before I turned older.Long hair, very polite, well.Strangers often thought I was a girl, and I prefer not to talk about how was school for me.Lol.I always considered myself male because I was born this way and I was never being attracted to changing, but I did ask myself questions about my true identity when people thought I was female ^^


Well, first, I apologize for my ignorance.But if a transwoman, who has changed to man, is attracted to women, wouldn't that make *him* heterosexual ?

I unintentionally created some confusion here - Basically - a person or individual who has transitioned from Male to Female, is a Transgendered Female/Woman. If they are attracted to women, then they would thus be homosexual/lesbian in this case.

I don't really like using the term Transgender Female/Male, because you were always Female/Male. I'm working on how to better word that.

Ah, okay then.My bad.