Questions from Female-to-Male Transsexuals
and Transgendered and Questioning Females
You have questions,
we have answers.
The Gender Identity Center of Colorado
provides help, support and information
for transgendered or questioning
females.
by Matthew Kailey
What does it mean to be a transgendered female?
A transgendered female is a person born female, who identifies full or
part-time as a male or questions the correctness of her birth gender.
A great deal of attention has been paid to transgendered males,
especially to well-known male-to-female transsexuals such as Christine
Jorgenson and Renee Richards. It is sometimes difficult for the
transgendered female to identify with the media images of
transgenderism, since they tend to be TG and TS male-to-females.
There are thousands of TG females in this country ranging from those
who have had complete gender reassignment with hormones and surgery to
those who simply feel most comfortable emulating the clothing,
mannerisms and lifestyle of males.
Is a tomboy a transgendered female?
Sometimes. There are many girls who were
tomboys as children who are quite comfortable being female and have
no desire to identify as a male. Many, but not all, transgendered
females were tomboys when growing up, preferring boys'
games and wanting to be one of the guys. Some were quite feminine
and preferred traditional female activities, while others
participated in a mixture of activities.
Are transgendered females lesbians?
Some TG females identify as lesbians. However, most lesbians are
not transgendered. The majority of lesbians are happy with their
birth gender and do not want to be male. A TG female, regardless
of her sexual orientation, is one who is uncomfortable with or
questions the correctness of her birth gender. She does not feel
at home in her female body and desires to identify as a male,
either full or part-time. Some TG females are sexually attracted
to women, some to men. Most TG females, regardless of their sexual
orientation, desire to be male in their relationships with others.
What options are available for transgendered
females?
There are many options, ranging from hormone therapy and surgery
to simply living a lifestyle that is congruent with the gender
identity. All options should be explored with a qualified therapist.
What help is available?
The Gender Identity Center provides support, education and outreach
for transgendered and questioning females. A monthly support group
is available, as is information and referral to doctors and therapists.
The Center maintains strict confidentiality guidelines.
Remember, you are not alone.
There are others who share your
feelings and your experiences and want to help. At the Gender
Identity Center, you will meet compassionate, caring people who
understand what you are going through. You will find support,
friendship and help for yourself, and, if you choose, for your
loved ones. For more information on female-to-male transgenderism
or other issues with regard to gender identity, contact the GIC.