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 has a deficiency in 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. Other factors at birth, can lead to Gender
Dysphoria such as non- descended testes (as in my case),
or a disorder in the mother's endocrine system, (like a benign
hormone secreting tumor), or even by excessive maternal stress!
As you can imagine the scope of transgenderism is as wide as the world is large, from the occasional crossdressers to true transexuals, with an overwhelming need to be female.
Personally I see myself as a guy with an added extra, feminine vanity. |
Popular Myth-conceptions
Where do I personally
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, and this
understanding has lifted the shame that I once felt. 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 had counseling and have even gone
as far as a 6 month course of hormones, however I realised it was
not for me. I strongly 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, psychologists
with their terms such as "Gender Identity Disorder".
What, in their humble opinion is "order"?
I prefer the term Gender Dysphoria, it tells me that I'm not quite in euphoria, or there is another 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 by Dr Anne Vitale PhD a transexual psychologist and counselor, explaining Gender Identity Disorder, and it's effects.
TG Gallery Chat Rooms. (formerly Debbies Den) A great place to
find like-minded people
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.
© 1999 Rene Sydney
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