BACKGROUND: Some gray and white matter regions of the brain are sexually dimorphic. The best MRI technique for identifying subtle differences in white matter is diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether white matter patterns in female to male (FtM) transsexuals before commencing cross-sex hormone treatment are more similar to that of their biological sex or to that of their gender identity.

METHOD: DTI was performed in 18 FtM transsexuals and 24 male and 19 female heterosexual controls scanned with a 3 T Trio Tim Magneton. Fractional anisotropy (FA) was performed on white matter fibers of the whole brain, which was spatially analyzed using Tract-Based Spatial Statistics.

RESULTS: In controls, males have significantly higher FA values than females in the medial and posterior parts of the right superior longitudinal fasciculus (SLF), the forceps minor, and the corticospinal tract. Compared to control females, FtM showed higher FA values in posterior part of the right SLF, the forceps minor and corticospinal tract. Compared to control males, FtM showed only lower FA values in the corticospinal tract.

CONCLUSIONS: Our results show that the white matter microstructure pattern in untreated FtM transsexuals is closer to the pattern of subjects who share their gender identity (males) than those who share their biological sex (females). Our results provide evidence for an inherent difference in the brain structure of FtM transsexuals.

Abstract reprinted from: Rametti G, et al., White matter microstructure in female to male transsexuals before cross-sex hormonal treatment. A diffusion tensor imaging study. J Psychiatr Res. 2010 Jun 8.

Read the original abstract here.

I remember when I was first learning about transition and being surprised at the idea of gay trans men who had previously identified as lesbian. Now, my concepts about gender and sexuality are much more fluid and I chuckle at the naïveté I had. Looking back, I think I just found it astounding that gender and sexuality weren’t the immutable foundations I thought they were. I was only just beginning to understand my gender evolution, and the idea of having to manage gender transition plus a shifting sexual orientation seemed hugely challenging. And yet this is what many trans guys experience, a concurrent evolution of gender and sexual orientation.

This 2009 research paper covers basic herbal and nutritional support for transgender and gendervariant folks specifically on the transmasculine spectrum. Historically, transpeoples’ access to health care is limited for multiple reasons and information regarding the long term side effects of hormone therapy is miniscule, so it is profound to be able to support the health and well being of transgender folks with herbs and nutrition, which tends to be more accessible and affordable.

OUTLINE:

• Overview: definitions & medical treatment
• Holistic support for Surgery
• Endocrinology Basics
• Hormone Replacement Therapy: herbs for support (male spectrum)
• Emotional/Spiritual Support
• Resources & bibliography

Read the complete research paper here from the Ohlone Herbal Center in Berkeley, California.

Also see: Chinese Herbs for Transgender Men

Any views expressed in this article are the views of the authors and are not necessarily the views of TransGuys.com’s publisher or contributors. See full Disclaimer.

For many transgender men, being able to stand to pee (STP) is an important rite of passage that can help relieve some of the emotional and physical dysphoria of being trans. Adopting this socialized male behavior can be liberating and make one feel more whole and complete.

Of course it’s certainly acceptable to opt for a stall instead of the urinal, and lots of cis gender men sit to pee, especially at home. However, they have the option of whipping it out at a urinal when the need arises. The simple fact is that not all men’s rooms have a suitable stall. You’ll often find it in a sorry state of disrepair, with the door precariously hanging off a single hinge, or worse, no door at all. This can be extremely distressing for the trans man who doesn’t STP.

Thankfully, there’s a wide range of products that trans men can use to STP. These range from do-it-yourself solutions that cost nothing to more elaborate pack ‘n’ pee prosthetics. This is a fairly individualized art and learning to STP usually requires a little training at home and sometimes trying out several products before you find one that gets the job done.

There are a few downsides to trans male STPing, such as the expense of buying STP devices, jockstraps, sock jocks, suspensories and other harnesses, having to keep your STP device clean and preventing urinary tract infections, and for some, switching to briefs. Also, depending on physiology, skill and focus, STPing can be unhygienic. Don’t believe it? Just ask the Mothers Against Peeing Standing Up whose mandate is to “prevent unnecessary urine stream fragmentation.”

So, why do men STP anyway?

Well, squatting in a urinal would surely get some looks.

There’s a Baptist Pastor who claims that men in the Bible are specifically identified as people “who piss against the wall,” distinguishing them from women. It’s dictated by scripture people: STP is a god-given right!

Even though many cis gender men sit, and the men’s room is not a particularly discriminating venue, there’s a certain segment of society that thinks sitting to pee is effeminate and not what “real men” do. In Standing While You Pee: The Last Bastion of Masculinity? Klaus Schwerma asks,

Is standing-while-peeing an act of masculine identification, a symbolic exercise of power, an exercise of patriarchal power against women, a demonstration of the claims of masculinity and (phallic) male fantasies? Is standing while you pee an expression of masculinity?

Feminists have weighed in on the subject of STP too. Ten years ago, women in Sweden, Germany and Australia pushed to have all urinals removed from public restrooms. This was due in part to concerns about hygiene but “more crucially because a man standing up to urinate is deemed to be triumphing in his masculinity, and by extension, degrading women.” Oy!

Unraveling the ties between STP, masculinity and feminism is outside the scope of this article though, so let’s proceed.

How to STP

Perhaps the first place to start is seeing if you can STP without a device. Nathaniel of transboys.info has preserved a helpful brochure on the subject. Check it out here: How to Pee Standing Up.

Learning to STP with a device takes some practice, and it’s a good idea to master the technique before strutting up to a public urinal. Start by practicing in the shower or while standing in your bathtub. When you’re leak-free and confident, move your training to the toilet. For those who aren’t using an STP packer, think about how you will carry your device, how you will discreetly setup with it, and how you will clean it when you’re done. Be patient. As  vlogger and blogger charlesasher explains, learning to STP can be frustrating.

STP Devices

DIY STP Devices

The “Coffee Lid” STP is a free, simple and convenient solution. Simply take a large plastic coffee can lid or equivalent (ie. lids from yogurt, cottage cheese, etc.) and trim the edges off so that you’re left with a flat disk. For smoother edges and more comfort, you can sand the edges with fine grain sandpaper. When you’re ready to use it, roll it into a funnel and simply pee through it. Urine will bead up on the plastic so a vigorous shake will render the disk dry enough to slip it into your back pocket. Free, simple, convenient, though not entirely urinal friendly and perhaps better suited to STPing in a stall.

The Medicine Spoon is a cheap and effective plastic device you can buy at any pharmacy. You’ll find several designs with different sized spoons and tubes and varying plastics, but they all work the same way. You pee into the spoon end. Cut the other end off to provide a hole for the stream. The Medicine Spoon is small enough to fit into your pocket, cheap and is the basis for most STP packer designs, meaning: master the spoon and you’ll master most STP packers.

If you’re good with your hands, consider making your own STP packer. You’ll find complete instructions and helpful tips in the video Make an Ee-zee Pee-zee STP Packer as well as Charles’ Take on STP Devices:

Click here to view the embedded video.

Buy FTM Packers Online

Trans guys on YouTube have posted a ton of videos on DIY STP methods and designs using a variety of materials such as latex tubing, laboratory pipettes, and silicone baking sheets. Watch this Playlist of DIY STP videos for more details.

Also check out these guys’ pages for other DIY STP ideas:

• BMX3r.com: Describes STPs  made with medicine spoons, the Uspoon, TravelMate and Whizaway devices.
• FTM.dreamwidth.org: Simple and unique medicine dropper.

Commercially Available STP Devices

The Magic Cone is a disposable, biodegradable, waterproof cardboard cone that’s quite portable. 3 for $3.95 or 9 for $11. Note: You can get lower bulk pricing on the Magic Cone when you buy direct from the manufacturer.

The TravelMate is similar to a medicine spoon. This is a reusable, inexpensive and popular STP device that’s often used to make STP packers. Winner in the 2001 Medical Design Excellence Awards competition. $8.95 each or 3 for $23.00.

The GoGirl is an unfortunately named STP that’s very portable and inexpensive. The soft silicone  does call for extra care during use to prevent leakage. $12.95 Want a free one? Read on…

The SNEE-KEE is a reusable and portable plastic STP.  Skin tones aren’t available yet. $12.95

There are a number of STP devices that work well and are easy to use but aren’t particularly portable. You can carry them in a knapsack, but not in your drawers. As such, they offer limited value to trans men. They’re included here for completeness, and also to help give you ideas about making your own devices.

• Lady J – $7.99
• Urinelle (disposable) – $8.85
• Whizzy (disposable) – 10 for $10.95
• SheWee – £7.50
• pStyle – $12
• The PEE-ZEE – $12.75
• Sani-Fresh Freshette – $19.99
• The Whiz Easy -  $24.95 (Canadian orders, UK orders)
• The Freshette – $34.95

Read a comparison review of the pStyle, Whiz Easy and GoGirl.

STP Packers

The Stand to Pee by Home Grown is a medicine spoon with latex tubing that will fit into your packer. It’s not clear on the website but it appears that the packer is not included. Ships from Australia. $30.

The FTM STUD is another STP packer design that comes in two dick sizes, as well as three varying sizes for the spoon. Unlike other similar STP packers, the FTM STUD’s spoon is coated with a special rubber coating for comfort. The FTM STUD uses latex tubing for a softer appearance to your package. $40 – $45. (Unavailable until July 1, 2010)

The Pissin’ Passin’ Packer by DJ Knows Dick is a popular STP packer that features a medicine spoon, tubing and packer. $50

The Mango Pack and Pee is another popular STP packer with a unique spoon shape, tubing and packer. $69.95 – $74.95 (Unavailable until July 1, 2010.)

Do you STP?
Get the STP T-shirt!

STP Packer Reviews

• Read The Trans Consumer Mango review.
• Watch charlesasher’s video review of the Mango, the Pissin’ Passin’ Packer by DJ Knows Dick and the FTM STUD.

Conclusion

Whether or not one STPs is certainly no measure of the man, but for those who want to, or find themselves in situations where they have little choice, the wide range of STP products available can help solve the logistical problems while also alleviating some of the anxiety that many guys feel around public bathrooms.

We’d love to hear from you if you have suggestions for STP designs or techniques, comments on the devices you’ve tried, and especially if you’re aware of more International options for buying STP devices and STP packers. Please leave us a comment below!

Want a FREE GoGirl? Simply leave a comment below and include “GoDude!” with your comment and you’ll be entered in a draw for a free GoGirl GoDude. Contest details. Contest ended July 22.

Further Reading

• FTM Guide: Men’s Room Etiquette and Safety
• safe2pee: Bathrooms for Everyone
• Trans-Can-Scan: The British Columbia Trans Bathroom Directory
• The Packer Showdown

Unless otherwise noted, all prices are in USD. Convert to your currency with xe.com.

UPDATE, 07/23/10: This contest is now closed. Congratulations to our winner, Derrick!

TransGuys.com is giving away a GoGirl STP device.

The GoGirl is a soft, flexible, portable silicone device that allows you to pee freely and direct the stream where you want it to go. The silicone also makes for easy cleanup — just shake, rinse and/or wipe it off, then boil it for disinfection later. The pliable material allows you to fold/scrunch it up and stuff it in a bag or pocket for later.

Entering is Easy:

Just leave a comment on the Ultimate Guide to STP article and include “GoDude!” in your comment.

Good luck!

Contest Rules

Registration Deadline: July 22, 2010. Drawing will be held on July 23, 2010.
Prizes: One (1) winner will each receive one (1) GoGirl STP device.
Eligibility: Entries much be received between 12:00 p.m. PST on June 21, 2010 and 11:59:59 p.m. PST July 22, 2010 (”Contest Period”). Only one (1) entry per person/email address; entries with duplicate email addresses or multiple entries using different email addresses for a single individual will count as one entry.
Selection of Winner: Winner will be randomly selected by TransGuys.com on or about July 23, 2010 (from among eligible entries submitted during the Contest Period). Winner will be notified by e-mail on or about July 22, 2010. Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received.

Stacked up against Twitter and forums and social networks, mailing lists seem pretty old school. However, the appeal of the simple text format and direct delivery of mailing lists remains strong. If you’re looking to connect with other trans-positive folks and get support around transition-related issues, there’s surely a trans mailing list for you. Part 3 of TransGuys’ Finding Community Online series highlights a selection of mailing lists for trans men and their supporters.

While this list is extensive it’s by no means complete. If you know of other helpful trans-positive mailing lists for the guys, please share by leaving a comment below.

Also see:

• Finding Community Online Part 1: Twitter
• Finding Community Online Part 2: Forums and Social Networks

Article Contents:

1. Mailing Lists for Transgender Men (Guys Only)

a) General FTM Mailing Lists
b) Local Mailing Lists (North America / International)
c)  Surgery and Health Mailing Lists

2. Mailing Lists for Transgender Men and SOFFAs

a) General FTM Mailing Lists
b) Faith-based Mailing Lists

3. Transgender (FTM, MTF) and SOFFAs Mailing Lists
4. SOFFAs Mailing Lists
5. Currently Inactive Mailing Lists
6. Mailing List Etiquette

1. Mailing Lists for Transgender Men (Guys Only)

a) General FTM Mailing Lists

Trans Guys
This is a place for Trans Guys (FTM, FTX, MTM, genderqueer, etc.) to come together and talk about Trans issues, meet other Trans guys, and discuss life in general. Note: This list is not affiliated with TransGuys.com.

FTM Early Transitioning
This group is for persons who are in the female-to-male transitioning process, particularly the early stages when much is happening and much is still unresolved. Men who are farther along in transition are welcome, also, so that we may have the benefit of your experience.

Greenboys
This is a list for those born female-bodied or intersexed at birth, who embody some sort of masculine gender expression which may include but is not limited to: ftm’s, butches, tomboys, genderqueers, tg, daddies, etc.

TMaleB2B – The T-Male Brother to BBS Transmen Group
A group associated with The Transitional Male website (T-Male) who have been part of the T-Male Brother to Brother Support Bulletin Board.

POC Transition
This group caters to the special needs of members of the POC-FTM community. This group is dedicated to sustaining discussions needed as one moves forward with plans for T, Top surgery, meta, phallo, and post-op outcomes.

b) Local Mailing Lists

View Local Mailing Lists for Transgender Men in a larger map

North America

Vancouver Guys
Vanguys is a local British Columbia list for FTMs and FTM-questioning.

VanIslandudes
Vanislandudes is a listserve for male-identified transmen on Vancouver Island, BC, with occasional meetups in Victoria.

Fairfield County Transmasculine Society
For people who were born or assigned female at birth and feel that this is an inaccurate and/or incomplete gender identity. Connecticut Transmen, FtMs, genderqueer, butch, stud, gender neutral, third-gendered, AG, intersexed, gender questioning, gender variant, boy dykes–this group is for you.

FTMinKY
Discussion and information list for FTMs and guys born intersexed, living or working in and around the state of Kentucky.

SeaBoyz
Discussion and announcement list for the Seattle area FTM community.

Tarheel Transmen
Social support organization for the FTM community in North Carolina.

The New Boyz Club
Olympia-Based group for FtM (Transgender/Transsexual), pre/post-op, pre/post-hormones, gender queer with emphasis on becoming male, or questioning transitioning Female-to-Male.

Diego Boyz
Resource for the San Diego County FTM communitity (i.e. transitioned and transitioning transsexual men, transmen, transmales). Includes announcements for local events and news relevant to the San Diego County transmale and broader trans communities, as well as a discussion forum for local community issues.

Alamo Boyz
FTM, Female to Male transsexual, transgendered in Texas. An online and real life peer support group. We welcome FTMs from all over Texas to join and contribute to the growing network of information from FTMs for FTMs.

St. Louis MO FTMs
A space for FtM’s, Transmen, and those questioning to talk about anything and everything, in the St. Louis, MO region. This is a place for support, and friendship.

East Coast FTMs

SDFTM-SO
The San Diego Chapter of FTM (Female-to-Male) International welcomes FTMs or gender questioning individuals assigned female at birth, who feel that gender assignment is no longer complete or accurate. The group has monthly support meetings and monthly social gatherings for allies and significant others.

ABQ FTM Group
This group is a online communications board for the real life transmen support group in Albuquerque, NM.

DCATS – [Washington] DC Area Transmasculine Society
Listserve and monthly meetings, general support, local medical care references.

International

FTM UK
The UK FTM network is an informal list, open to all UK based female to male (FTM)transgender and transsexual people, or those exploring this aspect of their gender.

Transmen Scotland
Support group for all female to male transmen, transgender and transsexual people. The group is based in Scotland and meets monthly in Edinburgh and Glasgow. Membership is open to all female to male trans people in Scotland.

FTM Sveriges öppna grupp
Sweden’s FTM transgender group.

New Zealand Transguys
Discussion and contact group for people born or living in Aotearoa/New Zealand, assigned “female” or “intersex” at birth, but who identify outside of that, including but not limited to: transgender, transsexual, ftm, f2m, tangata ira tane, mtm, male, taane, genderqueer, trannyboy, transman, 3rd gender, bi-gendered etc.

FTM Brasil
An informal discussion group open to all Brazilians who identify themselves as trans men (FTM transsexuals) or are exploring this aspect of their identity.

c) Surgery and Health Mailing Lists

FTM Surgery Info
An extensive resource for info, photos, research regarding surgery options for Female-to-Male transgendered persons. (Note: Surgeons are also on this list.)

FTM Surgery Support
FTM Surgery Support is a companion group to the FTM Surgery Info group. FTM Surgery Support offers open discussion of emotional, physical, psychological and financial issues facing FtM (Female to Male) transgendered / transsexual / transman / ftm / masculine identified / questioning individuals who are considering, undergoing, or have completed any FTM surgery.

FTM Metoidioplasty
This is a peer to peer discussion group on metoidioplasty procedures for FTMs.

FTM Phalloplasty Info
This is a peer to peer discussion group on phalloplasty procedures for FTMs. Welcome to all FTMs who are seriously considering phalloplasty surgery, as well as those who have completed a phalloplasty.

The Deciding Line
This group is a safe space for guys of trans experience to discuss choosing between a metoidioplasty, phalloplasty, meta then phallo and or other procedures.

Meltzer Support
This is a support group for patients of Toby Meltzer, MD. If you are interested in having surgery with Dr. Meltzer, this is the group for you.

FTM Fit
This is a place for FTMs, transmen, and anyone on the transmasculine spectrum to discuss fitness and nutrition. Working out and eating right can go a long way in making your transition a successful and healthy one!

2. Mailing Lists for Transgender Men and SOFFAs

a) General FTM Mailing Lists

FTM-trans (Yahoo!)
Founded in March 1999, FtM-trans is the oldest general-topic FtM peer support forum online. FtM-trans is now run by a team representing FTMInternational and FTMAustralia. Offering assistance, fellowship and info to FtM/MtM male-spectrum, transgendered, transsexual, intersexed, genderqueer and questioning individuals in a safe and supportive environment. Teen and untransitioned FtMs welcome; trans-identified Butches and Drag Kings welcome; questioning or genderless persons on the FtM-spectrum welcome; SOFFAS (family and friends of listmembers) welcome.

FTM Trans (Google)
This group is for all people who may fit under the umbrella term of FTM (female to male), or anyone assigned female at birth and does not identify that way, Any FTM, ally, or questioning person may join. The purpose of this community is for support/questions/etc.

Transmen
This is a support group for transmen, including FtM, female to male identified folks and the SOs that love them. Friends, family members, those allied with the transgender/transsexual community, professionals, are all welcome.

FTM Boi’s
A place for FTM’s and SOFFA’S (significant others, friends, family, and allies) to talk about transition and the effects it has on the body, and relationships with others.

FTM Personals II
This group is created by and for FTMs and admirers. Anyone on the FTM spectrum (Boi, FTM, F2M, M2M, Transman, Genderqueer, TG Butch, etc) those who would like to date them can post a personal ad of any length. Non-FTMs are especially welcome!

FTM and SOFFA
This is a new list as of May 2010 providing online support for FTMs and their SOFFAs.

Florida Transguys
Regional contact list for transmen (FTMs) and SOFFAs in Florida and surrounding area, regardless of transition or questioning status.

MN Boyz
Support and networking for female-to-male transexuals, male-IDed or alternatively gendered female bodied, intersex, and SOFFAs in the Minneapolis-St Paul and Greater Minnesota area.

Bay Area Boyz
The BABOYZ mailing list serves the FTM/SOFFA communities of the San Francisco Bay Area in California by providing an announcement board for local events and for legal news relevant to trans* communities, as well as a discussion forum for local community issues.

Transmen Asia
Support group for Asians Transmen (FtM) their Significant Other (SOs).

FTMI Ohio
FTMI chapter providing outreach and advocacy for FTMs, SOFFAs and all female to male’s on the gender variant spectrum in Ohio. This Yahoo! Group exists as a discussion forum for the business of the FTM-I_Ohio chapter.

b) Faith-based Mailing Lists

Jewish FTM
Jewish awareness, Jewish identity, Judaism and Jewish spirituality for transmen, transgender male, transitioning, ts, f-to-m, ftm, f2m, mtm, tg, third gender and intersex individuals, partners and family members. A moderated, safe and respectful community for spiritual support and growth.

TransJews
Transgendered(TG)/Transsexual(TS)/Genderqueer Jews and SOFFAs list. Discussing how Judaism affects our gender experiences and vice-versa. All levels of observance, backgrounds and viewpoints welcome.

emergence – For Christian Transsexuals
This is a discussion list for Christians who happen to be transsexual to discuss the challenges that face us as we try to serve God.

TranSpirituality
Spirituality for transmen, transgender male, transitioning, ts, f-to-m, ftm, f2m, mtm, tg, third gender and intersex individuals, partners and family members. A moderated, safe and respectful community for spiritual support and growth. Your faith and your journey are honored here.

3. Transgender (FTM, MTF) and SOFFAs Mailing Lists

Greater Boston Transgender Community
Serving the CD/FTM/GQ/GV/MTF/TG/TS/TV community of greater Boston, Northeastern Massachusetts (MA), and southern New Hampshire (NH). This list is for announcements, chat, and coordination of area events with a transgendered focus. Membership is open to all trans-supportive persons.

Southern Arizona Gender Alliance (SAGA) Chat
SAGA organizes educational, social, and support programs for transgender, transsexual, and gender-variant people and their allies in Southern Arizona.

Southern Comfort Conference Lounge
The Southern Comfort Conference, held each year in Atlanta, is the largest convention for transgendered people in the world. For a week each September, hundreds of kindred spirits attend-to meet, share, experience and enjoy the company of others. This list is dedicated to anyone who has attended a SCC, or who is thinking about going (you should!) It’s a place to keep in touch, to make plans, to share pictures and experiences, etc. Ride sharing, room shares, general questions or requests are welcome. It’s open to any adult who identifies themselves as gender different-TG, TS, TV, CD, MtF, FtM-or significant others.

TG POC
Discussion-oriented listserv for Trans People of Color as well as our significant others and allies.

EthnicFTM
EthnicFtM offers a space where members are free to discuss general FtM concerns, as well as all concerns specific to the Ethnic and Religious minorities that we belong to. Respectful SOFFAs, friends and health care providers are welcome.

Genderqueer Revolution
Online discussion group for a national organization dedicated to empowering people of all genders, helping people to embrace the gift of gender, supporting and cultivating genderqueer, gender-gifted individuals and communities.

Trans Natural
Community resource for information about herbs, nutrition, and holistic health for trans/genderqueer folks and those who love them.

TGV Advocacy
Discussion group for political, social and cultural advocacy and issues affecting transgender, transsexual, intersex and all other gender variant people. It’s also a forum for discussion about articles that have appeared in the “transgendernews” Yahoo! Group.

Canadian Transexuals Fight For Rights (CTFFR)
This list is a source for transgender-related news stories.

Trans Action Canada
A group dedicated to the health, welfare and legal/justice issues of the Canadian trans community. Note: Lots of forwards and cross posts with the CTFFR list.

Transgender Michigan
Founded in 1997, TransGender Michigan is dedicated to improving the lives of transgender individuals in Michigan. Our goal is “To strive for social justice and equality for transgender individuals and significant others, family, friends, and allies (SOFFAs) through education, support and advocacy.”

Trans Inclusiveness GA & FL
Trans Inclusiveness FL & GA is a discussion and social group established to provide a safe location for transsexuals (FTM & MTF), gender benders and allies to receive support and incouragement as each one makes the journey along this path who live in Florida and GA.

Trans* & GenderQueer Parenting
This is a community for parents and prospective parents who are transgender, transsexual, gender variant or genderqueer. We pass no judgment on peoples’ gender identities. If you are FTM, MTF, genderqueer, butch, a cross-dresser, etc., or the partner of someone who is trans, you are welcome to join this group.

TransFamily Couples
Offers support, discussions, and news for transgendered individuals and/or their spouses and committed partners.

4. SOFFAs Mailing Lists

FTMSOs
This list is for SO’s of transgendered persons on the masculine end of the gender spectrum. This generally means SO’s of FTM’s/Transmen or those considering transition. Here, SO’s can talk about our own issues and get support from others. This list is open to SOs with *ANY* gender or sexual orientation or background.

SOs, Friends, Family and Allies of FTMs
Group for SOFFAs or Significant Others, Friends, Family of FTMs. FtMs and other trans folk welcome.

The Womens Circle – Peaceful Sisterly Support and Rapport
This list is a safe and flame-free space for past, present and future women partners/lovers/girlfriends of FtMs (female-to-male TG or TS spectrum or questioning persons) to exchange advice, offer support and discuss the intricacies of life with an FtM in an atmosphere of privacy and security.

Women Partners of FTMs
This list is a safe space for women who are in relationships with FTMs and female-bodied people who are questioning their gender identity and expression.

AFLOAT
For ”Allies, Friends, Loved Ones, and Tribe,” the partners, parents, children, families, and friends of FTMs. Find support and discussion unique to your experiences and needs.

TransFamily Spouses
Offers support, discussions, and news for spouses and partners of transgendered individuals.

Parents of FTM Transsexuals
This group is designed to give space and a forum to parents of FTM Transsexuals. If your daughter has come to you and disclosed that she is wanting to become a man, this is your place. No matter what stage of transition your child may be in, you’re welcome to join in. Hopefully, this will be a safe haven for you to vent and console, connect and find relief that you are not alone.

5. Currently Inactive Mailing Lists

• F2M Support Online
• FtMSurvivors – FtM Survivors of Sexual Abuse
• FtM Crossdressing – FTM Transmen Crossdressing
• Not100M – FTMs who aren’t 100% male inside
• Keystone Transmen
• The Centurion FTM Surgery Site
• Jewish FTM Family Support Group
• IS-IG-IT-TG-TS-interfaith
• South Sound Gender Variant Healthcare Project (GVHP)
• TransFeminist
• tgcrossroads – Serving the Trans/SOFFA community
• The Boyz Club – For male lovers and partners of FtMs, and FtM partners themselves

6. Mailing List Etiquette

When participating in any mailing list, please remember to:

• Pay attention to the list guidelines: Each list has its own set of guidelines that are typically emailed to you when you join. Read and abide by these guidelines.
• Search the archives: Before posting a new question to the list, do a search of the archives to see if the topic has come up before. You might find just what you need!
• Be constructive: Before posting, consider the value you are adding to the list. Avoid getting personal. Always keep your cool and respond with respect.
• Trim your posts: This is even more important now because many people read mailing lists on mobile devices.

Do you know of other mailing lists that should be listed here? Please share the mailing list name and link with your comment below.

Last updated: July 26, 2010

Background: During testosterone (T) therapy, T is partly converted to 17β-estradiol (E₂) and 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Effects of age, testosterone dose, and body composition on total and free E₂ and DHT levels are unknown.

Objective: We evaluated age and dose-related differences in E₂ and DHT levels in response to graded doses of testosterone enanthate in young and older men.

Methods: Fifty-one young (aged 19–35 yr) and 52 older (aged 59–75 yr) men completed treatment with monthly injections of a GnRH agonist plus randomly assigned weekly doses of testosterone enanthate (25, 50, 125, 300, or 600 mg) for 5 months.

Results: During testosterone administration, total and free E₂ levels increased dose-dependently (dose effect, P < 0.001) in both young and older men. Total and free E₂levels and E₂:T ratios during T administration were higher in older than young men, but age-related differences in free E₂ and free E₂:T ratios were not significant after adjusting for testosterone levels, percentage fat mass, and SHBG. DHT levels and DHT:T ratios were dose-related but did not differ between young and older men. Mechanistic modeling of free hormone data revealed that the conversions of T to E₂ and DHT were both consistent with saturable Michaelis-Menten kinetics. The in vivoK_m values were estimated to be 1.83 nM for aromatase and 3.35 nM for 5α-reductase, independent of age. The V_max parameter for E₂ was 40% higher in older men than younger men, but V_max for DHT was not significantly different between age groups.

Conclusions: During im testosterone administration, E₂ and DHT levels exhibit saturable increases with dose. The rate of whole body aromatization is higher in older men, partly related to their higher percentage fat mass, SHBG, and testosterone levels.

Abstract reprinted from: Lakshman KM et. al., The Effects of Injected Testosterone Dose and Age on the Conversion of Testosterone to Estradiol and Dihydrotestosterone in Young and Older Men, Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism (2010), doi:10.1210/jc.2010-0102

Read the original abstract here. Note that all articles published more than 12 months ago back to 1997 are free to all online. You can also request patient access to the full article.

Also see: DHT for Transgender Men

Any views expressed in this article are the views of the authors and are not necessarily the views of TransGuys.com’s publisher or contributors. See full Disclaimer.

Objective: To describe the timing of changes in fundamental frequency of the female voice following androgen therapy during female to male gender reassignment.

Methods: A 33-year-old female semi-professional singer undergoing gender reassignment and intramuscular androgen injections was examined at monthly intervals to monitor the impact of therapy on the voice. Laryngostroboscopy and acoustic analysis were performed simultaneously to monitor for potential laryngeal pathology.

Results: Pretreatment mean fundamental frequency (MF0) was 228.45 Hz and ranged from 140.26 Hz to 430.64 Hz. Between month 3 and month 4 of treatment, MF0 declined to 116.52 Hz and ranged from 90.75 Hz to 201.07 Hz. Shimmer increased from 3.4% to 7.8%. Noise to harmonics ratio (NHR) also increased from 0.12 to 0.17. The patient has continued to sing semi-professionally despite these changes in laryngeal function.

Conclusion: Androgen therapy exerted a profound change on mean fundamental frequency between the third and fourth months of treatment. In addition, pitch range was reduced in a commensurate fashion. Patients undergoing androgen therapy may undergo a significant change in speaking voice between the third and fourth months of therapy. Moreover, though these changes may exert a profound impact on the singing voice, patients undergoing gender reassignment may still be able to achieve personal and professional success in their singing careers.

Abstract reprinted from: Damrose EJ, Quantifying the impact of androgen therapy on the female larynx, Auris Nasus Larynx (2008), doi:10.1016/j.anl.2008.03.002

Read the full journal article here.

Also see: Testosterone and the Trans Male Singing Voice

Special thanks to TransGuys.com reader picji for sharing this! (via Drik via Joshua Klipp)

Any views expressed in this article are the views of the authors and are not necessarily the views of TransGuys.com’s publisher or contributors. See full Disclaimer.

I was a little surprised to find a personals ad from a trans guy in a “women seeking women” forum earlier this week. Each to their own, but it’s not what I’d do. I identify as male and I don’t expect (or desire) “women seeking women” to have any romantic or sexual interest in me. Furthermore, I’d feel as though I were invading their space by posting there.

What do you think? Please leave your comments below.

One of the most desired effects of testosterone by transgender men is a deepening of the voice. This change is very helpful for assuming the male gender role. However, there’s an uncertainty to voice changes: testosterone doesn’t always drop the pitch low enough, and the changed voice can be persistently hoarse and weak. This can cause both personal and professional difficulties, but for singers, the “unpredictable and irreversible”¹ nature of testosterone’s effects on the voice is a terrifying prospect. The loss of singing ability is not inevitable for trans men though, and there are strategies for easing the transition of the FTM singing voice.

One of my biggest misgivings about starting on testosterone was my singing voice. Beginning as a teenager, I’d performed professionally as a vocalist and guitarist for more than 10 years. Singing was as fundamental to my identity as gender. Would it have to be sacrificed at the expense of transition?

In Body Alchemy: Transsexual Portraits by Loren Cameron, there’s a portrait of author and educator, Jamison Green. He’s posed with a hand drum, and in the accompanying text he explains that he lost his singing voice once he started hormone therapy.² Here was one of the most visible trans men admitting one of my greatest fears about testosterone! It wasn’t encouraging, so I set out to find some stories that were.

The first sign of hope I found was in Joe Stevens of the queer folk duo, Coyote Grace. Listening to Joe’s smooth, high lonesome vocal on “A Guy Named Joe” was clear indication to me that there could indeed be singing after T.

A Guy Named Joe, Coyote Grace

Click here to view the embedded video.

By the time I found Joshua Klipp in late 2007, his music had already been featured on television and radio across the United States. His song “Little Girl” gained instant notoriety not only due to Joshua’s powerful performance, but also because it marked the first time in music industry history that a song featured a trans man’s pre-T voice alongside his testosterone-changed voice.

L1FE, Joshua Klipp

Click here to view the embedded video.

Scottish folk singer Simon de Voil was the subject of the feature documentary Funny Kinda Guy. The film follows Simon through his early transition as he “irreversibly sacrifices his female singing voice to hormone treatment.”³ Although he couldn’t sing confidently for three years, Simon says that since then his new voice has “really grown into itself.”⁴

Clearly, it’s possible for trans men to continue to sing after starting HRT, whether that’s around a camp fire with friends or on stages around the world. While there’s a serious lack of research in this area, we can look to the science of voice for guidance about how to ease FTM vocal transition.

How Testosterone Affects the Larynx

The larynx, or voice box, is a hormone-dependent organ. In teenage boys, increased testosterone production causes the vocal folds (vocal chords) to thicken, lengthen and mature. The cartilage of the larynx grows, further influencing the tone of voice. It also tilts slightly, resulting in a bump on the throat—the Adam’s Apple. This is a process that happens over time as the teen matures.

Trans men conversely, are often started on the highest recommended dose of testosterone, bringing about changes that would normally occur over several years in a much shorter time. Testosterone therapy makes the vocal folds grow thicker but they are restricted in length by the size of the larynx (which is typically smaller in trans men than in bio-males.) Cartilage growth is said to only happen during puberty⁵, and early cartilage ossification caused by testosterone further limits the growth of the trans male larynx.

In his groundbreaking study however, Alexandros Constansis revealed that his 39-year old larynx had indeed grown wider within the first year of HRT.⁶ Working with a group of FTM singers, Constansis noted that the most common characteristic among study participants was what he called “entrapped vocality.”⁷ The symptoms—persistent hoarseness and the inability to access and control certain areas of vocal range—were attributed to an inadequately enlarged larynx, due to age and the early onset of laryngeal cartilage ossification. (In some people, this ossification actually improves their singing voice, as the “hardened” larynx is better able to support the vocal folds.)

A professional singer himself, Constansis approached his own HRT conservatively, opting for a low starting dose that was gradually increased over a one year period. He reasoned that “abrupt changes are rarely beneficial to the vocal instrument”⁸ and suggested that the vocal difficulties experienced by teenage boys could only be aggravated in trans men due to the quickened hormonal changes.

It took about 3 years for my voice to finally settle where it is now. During those years there were several times when I thought ‘Okay, this is my new voice’, and then it would continue to change in subtle ways. I sang professionally for years pre-T and I still sing professionally now. I don’t have quite the range & sustainability that I once had, but anything I lost, I gained in terms of finally being able to own and identify with my voice now. I have no regrets! — Radford Bishop

Recommendations for Trans Male Singers

Throughout his paper, Constansis advocates that trans male singers who are starting testosterone proceed slowly, beginning with a low dose that’s gradually increased over time. While this is likely to slow virilization, it also produces more gentle changes to the larynx, and may be a more significant factor than age with regards to growth of the laryngeal structure.⁹

In addition to independently pursuing vocal exercises and maintaining good vocal health, trans male singers may also benefit from speech and voice therapy. A Speech-language pathologist (SLP) or vocal coach can develop a custom vocal training program that’s centered around their clients’ goals. They can also identify limitations of the changing voice, helping clients recognize the symptoms of vocal fatigue. While it’s important to continue singing through the first year on T—cracks and all—it’s even more important to avoid doing damage to the developing voice.

For trans men who have already had several years of testosterone therapy, vocal coaching can still be beneficial. Learning proper techniques for breathing, and opening the diaphragm and larynx, can substantially improve singing abilities.

If you choose this route, look for a SLP who has experience working with transgender people. Not only should they possess in-depth knowledge of speech/voice science and speech masculization treatments and therapies, but the ideal SLP also understands transgender basics (terminology, trans sensitive-protocols, etc.)¹⁰

I had been singing all my life, singing is a big part of my family, and songwriting became an integral part of my mental health. When I realized that transition was my path, my voice was the only concern. I set out to find some information about it, and found none. My doctor had nothing conclusive, and most of the transguys I found said that they no longer sang… Not encouraging. But my gut told me that if I could carry a tune before, I could carry one after, and hopefully the tonal quality would be easy on the ears, and I had to move forward. When the voice dropped, the fun began. What I learned is that you just have to keep singing. I had 23 years of muscle memory built up, and that’s a lot for any brain to re-learn. It takes time, but it’s mostly about finding where your new notes are, which can be fun, funny, frustrating, embarrassing – but you only have to do it once, and in the grand scheme of things, it’s a relatively short period of time. Keep singing. If you stop singing, then you won’t sing. Simple as that. The world needs our trans voices, and so do our brothers and sisters, and everyone in between. Sing out! — Joe Stevens

T-Voices

Click here to view the embedded video.

I made a personal decision that I would not let the fear of losing my singing voice obscure my path to transition. Instead, I chose to get excited about how the confidence gained from pursuing my true male identity would positively impact my vocal performance skills. I started with a low dose of testosterone: 50mg every two weeks, increased by 50mg every three months. I knew that testosterone would deepen my range, and I was also prepared for some temporary loss of control. I would need to retrain the muscle memory in my larynx, since shaping the vocal folds and flexing the laryngeal muscles in a familiar way would not necessarily produce the same tone as I was used to. I was advised that practice and patience would help my voice adjust.

Now after 20 months of HRT, the tonal quality of my voice sounds “whiskier” and sometimes I think this has sacrificed clarity but it’s also more rock ‘n’ roll sounding. I didn’t expect the loss of projection that I’ve experienced, but it’s returning with practice. Overall, the most difficult aspect of changing my singing voice has been gaining confidence with it again. It’s a mental adjustment that encompasses more than just my voice—it’s about confidently expressing my new (and not yet fully familiar) identity. All good things in all good time.

Learning to sing again post transition isn’t easy, but it can be done. Strengthen and stretch your vocal cords at a comfortable pace. Most importantly, however, be patient and kind with yourself and your voice.
– Joshua Klipp

Photo credit: Amos Mac, 2009

The “unpredictable and irreversible” effects of testosterone on voice can inject significant doubt into the decision of whether or not to pursue HRT. If testosterone is in your cards, remember that the “no guarantees” clause applies both ways: it’s not inevitable that you will lose your singing voice! Gradual administration of T, speech-language therapy, vocal exercises, maintaining good vocal health, and regular practice will all help ease the transition. And who knows? This woman claims that testosterone is the reason behind her incredible 8-octave range. Maybe you’ll be just as lucky!

More Trans Male Singers

• Geo Wyeth, Novice Theory
• Katastrophe is a San Francisco based rapper and producer.
• Alexander James Adams is an American singer, musician and songwriter in the Celtic and World music genres.
• Michael Woodward sings lead for Too Much Information.
• StormMiguel Florez is a Mexican American singer/songwriter.
• Alex Davis, Los Angeles native singer/songwriter.

Choirs with Trans Men

• Transcendence Gospel Choir of San Francisco was the first trans choir in the world and features trans men.
• One Voice Mixed Chorus used to have a trans choir. Presumably, there are still trans men in the main choir.

Additional Resources

How the Body Works: Speech and Voice – video

Anatomical Tutorial During Trans-Nasal Endoscopy – video

Changing Speech, Shelagh Davies and Joshua Goldberg, Vancouver Trans Health Program, 2006 (420K PDF)

Transgender Speech Feminization/Masculinization: Suggested Guidelines for BC Clinicians, Shelagh Davies and Joshua Goldberg, Vancouver Trans Health Program, 2006 (844K PDF)

Voice And Communication Therapy for the Transgender/transsexual Client: A Comprehensive Clinical Guide, Richard K. Adler, Sandy Hirsh, Michelle Mordaunt, editors, 2006

The Changing Female-To-Male (FTM) Voice, Alexandros N. Constansis, Radical Musicology, Vol. 3, 2008

Voice problems in female-to-male transsexuals, J. Van Borsel, G. De Cuypere, R. Rubens, B. Destaerke, International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders 2000, Vol. 35, No. 3

Effects of Testosterone Replacement on a Male Professional Singer, Austin King, Jon Ashby and Charles Nelson, Journal of Voice – December 2001 (Vol. 15, Issue 4)

How To Protect Your Singing Voice

Speech-Language Pathologists with Transgender Experience

Shelagh Davies – Speech-Language Pathologist, Clinical Associate Professor in the School of Audiology and Speech Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.

Sandy Hirsh – Speech-Language Pathologist, co-author and editor of Voice and Communication Therapy for the Transgender/Transsexual Client: A Comprehensive Clinical Guide. Sandy is based in Seattle, WA, USA but provides distance training using Skype video conferencing.

Anita L. Kozan – Dr. Kozan’s doctoral work focused voice care for singers and actors. She is a specialist in the development of the voice for persons who are transgendered, and her chapter on the singing voice in Voice and Communication Therapy for the Transgender/Transsexual Client: A Comprehensive Clinical Guide has been recognized as the first of its kind. Her private practice is in Minneapolis, MN, USA.

Footnotes

1. Medical Therapy and Maintenance for Transgender Men: A Guide for Health Care Providers
   R. Nick Gorton MD, Jamie Buth MD, Dean Spade Esq., p. 59
2. Body Alchemy: Transsexual Portraits, Loren Cameron, p. 38
3. Funny Kinda Guy
4. Simon de Voil
5. Changing Speech, Shelagh Davies and Joshua Goldberg, p.6
6. The Changing Female-To-Male (FTM) Voice, Alexandros N. Constansis, para 17
7. The Changing Female-To-Male (FTM) Voice, Alexandros N. Constansis, para 29
8. The Changing Female-To-Male (FTM) Voice, Alexandros N. Constansis, para 9
9. The Changing Female-To-Male (FTM) Voice, Alexandros N. Constansis, para 29
10. Changing Speech, Shelagh Davies and Joshua Goldberg, p.20

Acknowledgments

Thanks to Radford Bishop, Joe Stevens, Joshua Klipp and Lucas Silveira for contributing to this article. Special personal thanks go out to Joe and Lucas for providing me with very helpful advice and inspiring me to keep singing.