Transgendered

Transgendered (trans) people feel that the gender they were born with doesn't fit who they really are. For example, a person born as a woman may feel like a man (female-to-male) and a person born as a man may feel like a woman (male-to-female). Some trans people don't identify as either gender, but both. They may refer to themselves as "co-gendered", "bi-gendered" or "gender queer."

Trans people can be gay, straight or bisexual. For example, a trans woman can be attracted to men, women or both and a trans man can be attracted to men, women or both. Their gender identity doesn't reflect their sexual orientation, as the two aren't related.
Not all trans people choose sex reassignment surgery (SRS). Some may choose to take hormones instead. Those who have surgery however, are called Transsexual. Transvestites or Cross Dressers are people who wear the clothes of the opposite gender, but they don't identify as that gender.

If you're struggling with your gender identity, you may be wondering what to call yourself based on these terms. Your friends and family may be wondering what to call you too. Don't rush to label yourself right now. You've got lots of time to figure yourself out.

You may feel more comfortable identifying as the opposite gender. You may feel very uncomfortable with the parts of your body that are specific to the gender you were born with. You may want to change your appearance and spend time with people who acknowledge this.

During adolescence, most trans youth become aware of their feelings and thoughts, but don't do anything about them because they fear being teased or alienated at school. If you're confused about whether or not you're transgendered, that's not unusual. In time, you'll know for sure.

Some people may tell you that you're too young to call yourself transgendered and that you're going through a phase, but they may not have enough information to know the difference. Be sure that you do.

Yes, you're normal! It's perfectly natural to acknowledge who you really are to yourself and others. That's part of the process of accepting yourself. Of course you'll meet people who don't agree with you for a number of reasons, but don't let that discourage you. Many trans youth deny their feelings and thoughts based on this, but that's never helpful. In fact, it could be extremely harmful.

Just like gay, lesbian or bisexual people, trans people can "come out of the closet" too. Coming out is the process of accepting yourself as a trans person and figuring out how open you want to be about your gender identity. You're not obligated to tell anyone, but most trans people feel better when they're able to express themselves. Unfortunately, not everyone you know will think that being trans is good. Often it's hard to know who can handle it and give you support. Some people may accept you. Some people may ignore you or tell other people without your permission. Telling your family can be difficult too. Some families may be accepting, while others may not. It's important to have someone to talk to because you shouldn't keep your gender identity a secret. The guidance counsellor at your school may be able to help. You can also check out the groups and organizations on the back of this pamphlet.

Trans people can pleasure their partners in many of the same ways that gay and straight couples can. This can include kissing, hugging, stroking, intercourse and stimulating the genitals using tongues, hands, fingers and sex toys.

Deciding whether or not to be sexual with someone is a big decision. You may feel overwhelmed at the thought of having sex, especially if it's your first time. However, it's still important to communicate with your partner about whether or not you feel ready to have sex as well as what your needs and expectations are. Also, it's important to talk about sexually transmitted infections (STIs), whether you're at risk, and how to protect yourselves.

Everyone should know the facts on HIV, the virus believed to be the cause of AIDS and how it's transmitted, as well as how you can prevent yourself from becoming infected. You and your partner should discuss your risk factors for HIV and other common STIs, and decide what safer sex methods you should use.

People who are at risk are those who:
● Share needles if using IV drugs
● Have intercourse without using condoms
● Have oral sex without the use of a barrier
● Share sex toys without using condoms

Some trans people "come out" to close friends and family only, while others change their name, their pronouns and their appearance. Some even take hormones and have surgery to medically alter their appearance. Before you consider any of these options you should meet with a supportive mental health professional and other trans people.

Medical transition, the taking of hormones and having one or more surgeries, is a huge step. Most trans people who choose to transition medically need identity and body to match. To medically transition, you must first see a therapist and, in most cases, be diagnosed with Gender Identity Disorder. In most provinces, if you're under 18, you'll need your parent's permission to change your name or undertake medical transition. Ultimately, you know yourself best. Pay attention to that in order to discover how you want to see yourself and how you want others to see you.

Developing a healthy self-esteem is important for young people, especially trans youth. Some people feel that being trans is unnatural. This type of attitude may force trans youth to hide their gender identity and it can even make them think about hurting themselves through alcohol, drugs or suicide.

Trans youth may also feel isolated, fearful, and depressed, especially if they have no one to talk to about their gender identity, but there's supportive groups and organizations out there who can help. Meeting other trans people and reading materials on gender identity will enable trans youth to feel better about themselves.

Make contact within your community. One way you can do this is through the Internet. However, it's important to point out that although the Internet can be a safe and convenient way to meet people, it can still be dangerous and you should therefore be cautious about what you disclose.

Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay and Transgender at Memorial University of Newfoundland
(LBGT-MUN) 864-7619

PFLAG Canada 1-888-530-6777
(A national organization that offers support to families of LBGT people)

Related Organizations

Newfoundland & Labrador AIDS Committee
St. John's 579-8656
Toll-free: 1-800-563-1575
Gander 1-888-271-2437
Corner Brook 1-800-563-1575

Hours:
Monday, Tuesday, & Friday: 9:00-5:00
Wednesday: 12:00-5:00
Thursday: 12:00-8:00

Transgender Care: Recommended Guidelines, Practical Information and Personal Accounts. Isreal (1998).

Transgender Warriors: Making History from Joan of Arc to Dennis Rodman Feinberg (1997).Press.