So what is a Transgender?

Trans = Between / Gender = Sex

Simply defined:
A transgender is a person who is somewhere between Male and Female or visa versa.

Less Simply defined:
In many cases it is to do with the Chromosomes. M/s X and Mr Y Chromosome.
We all have X (female) chromosomes, and start our lives as a female egg.
In order to form a male (XY) at conception, the Y (male) chromosome from the father must try to change the egg from female to male. Some Y's do a better job than others, depending on the performance of critical genes such as TDF which form the male testes. If the Y doesn't have enough of this gene, the testes may not form properly, or quickly enough, and vital androgenising hormones aren't sent to the brain at critical times during development. In later life this can lead to Gender Identity Disorder, or aka "Gender Dysphoria" I like to call it "Gender Identity Confusion" and it may also be caused by non-descended testes at birth (as in my case), or a disorder in the mother's endocrine system such as a hormone secreting tumor, or even by maternal stress!

As you can imagine the scope of transgenderism is as wide as the world is big, from occasional crossdressers to true transexuals, with an overwhelming need to be female.

Popular Mythconceptions

Sexual Orientation, (if you dress like a girl you must be gay!)
Being transgendered has little or nothing to do with a persons sexuality, in most cases it is a spiritual, and not a sexual need. In fact it is well documented that almost 95% of transgenders are heterosexual.
Trannys are all sick perverted deviants!
Well what can I say, I have met many transgenders in my travels, and I can't think of a more generous, decent and loving group of people.
Like, we have a choice?
No way!! It is something you are born with, and not a matter of choosing to be this way.
I think this is the most mis-understood aspect of transgenderism.

Where do I fit in the scheme of things?
Hmmmm, I am in there somewhere, just don't know where exactly!
My personal need to identify as female is constantly changing, though it usually follows a cycle.
In the past I tried to deny myself, and it all came back, stronger than ever.

In the time since I found the net, I have learned a lot about myself, with the help and support of my wonderful friends I am developing my female self, and learning to get out and socialise without the usual fears.
I have also learned much about why I feel the way I do. I had always denied the strength of this side of my nature, passing off my crossdressing as a mere fetish. I see now that it is an expression of my true nature. I used to thrill at crossdressing, seeing it as the ultimate lie, creating the illusion of one gender from the other. Now I wonder if it is not the ultimate truth, one I have long denied.

For many years I avoided any literature on Transgenderism, I guess I was in denial.
Now I have the knowledge, and found the strength to reach out and seek help, I have sought counseling and have even tried a course of hormones, however I realised it was not for me.
I do advise anyone in the same situation to find a reputable TG counselor, recommended by a TS Support group.

My Rave!
I do get angry with the general medical community, with their terms such as "Gender Identity Disorder". What, in their humble opinion is "order"? I realise they must have their terms, it is a condition which must be treated, but I prefer to say we are transgendered, and have Gender Dysphoria. Or there is also my favourite, G.E.M or "Gender Enhanced Male" *giggles*

Here are some links to sites with information on crossdressing and transgenderism.

Coping With Crossdressing An article explaining the effects that Crossdressing and Transgenderism can have on family and personal lives.

Dr Anne Lawrence Dr Anne Lawrence is a transexual doctor with a wealth of information about her own transition and all transgender issues, such as counseling, and hormone replacement.

Gender Dysphoria Explained An interesting essay, explaining Gender Identity Disorder,and it's effects by Dr Anne Vitale PhD.

TG Gallery Chat Rooms. (formerly Debbies Den) A great place to find like-minded people

Susans Place transgender resources

The Australasian Good Tranny Guide.
A great guide for the transgendered, that covers all aspects,
with links to support groups, doctors, and even where to shop.

The Seahorse Society of N.S.W.
A support group for Crossdressers and Partners, based in Sydney

INTERNATIONAL GENDER TRANSIENT AFFINITY
The IGTA is a civil and human rights data gathering and
network building organisation for transgendered people.

Home please My Wonderful Friends

This page hosted by Get your own Free Home Page