What are /r/ftm's favorite Products & Services?

From 3.5 billion Reddit comments

For anyone not wanting to support them, Transtape is literally just KT tape.

I've been using KT Tape Wide which is 4 inches. Still in precut straps, but I've found they work just fine and you can trim them a bit shorter if you need.

I’ve never had any scrubs fit me right before until the Adar Addition Go (contemporary fit style) in a size XXS…and I took a gamble ordering these since they don’t have free returns. I tried FIGS men’s XS short in a slim style (smallest size they have) before these and they were way too big. The Adar have a very similar feel to the FIGS at a much lower price. AND they included a free matching mask with mine that have adjustable ear loops :,)

The only thing is that the pants are long as well as the top, but that’s a given—I can easily get the pants hemmed and loosely tuck in the shirt.

Adar Addition Go Scrubs

If you have trouble with injections, try this : Bionix Health at Home Shotblocker Pain Relief Solution https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B2GI3TG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_gDGqCb05PFPC9

It's called a shot blocker. It pokes your skin around where you do the shot, so it hurts less. It works really well!

Also, ask your pharmacy if they have automatically retracting needles. They are amazing. It makes the taking it out part instant and painless.

For me, I don't really mind the shots. They give you better, more consistent t levels than the other methods - I didn't see many changes on the gel, they only really started on the injection.

But hey! Cis men get their t from their balls, but we get to SHOOT IT INTO OUR MUSCLES once a week. Pretty bad ass if you ask me.

These are my everyday shoes, they were a bit weird to walk in at first but I got used to them in probably two ish days. I got the docs from journeys at my local mall, I got them a half size bigger then my size (I’m 6 1/2 men’s so I got a 7 in men’s). Here’s the shoes . The inserts I got off amazon, they have blocks to chose your height. Here are the inserts . Let me know if you have questions! Just thought I’d share:)

OP maybe add this link to the post?

https://www.amazon.com/Hung-Jury-Testimonies-Genital-Transsexual/dp/0615692354

That book completely changed my perspective on Phalloplasty and I am so stoked to get the surgery now; before I had fed into all the negativity surround it and was maybe not going to get it. It’s Hung Jury which is a collection of testimonials from trans men who have actually had phallo and it’s great

Oh jesus christ. I am so, so sorry that your mother is pulling this manipulative and abusive bullshit.

And that's exactly what it is: manipulative and abusive bullshit. I don't know if anyone's recommended you check out r/raisedbynarcissists yet, but please consider doing it. You'll find a huge community of people with parents who have Borderline or Narcissistic Personality Disorders (among others), sharing stories and getting support for situations very much like yours. This whole "I'm going to kill myself because of you" scheme is a common one. My grandmother is Borderline, and she royally fucked my family with these kinds of threats and other abusive, manipulative behaviors.

One thing that's helped me significantly (both to understand how my grandmother's mind works, how to deal with her, and how to navigate the fuckery she's made of the family) is reading books like "Understanding the Borderline Mother" and "Stop Walking on Eggshells." I've also been in therapy with someone who specializes in dealing with borderline people, even though I'm not borderline myself. I 100% advocate doing research and seeking advice from therapists about your situation.

And please know that nothing your mother does is your fault. You don't deserve this kind of treatment, and you shouldn't let her convince you that everyone would be better off without you. Because she's absolutely and completely wrong.

I read The First Man Made Man, I would recommend instead reading his autobiography. THIS is the link to the amazon page. In my view the former is very sensationalized and (like you said) has outdated terminology that makes it both confusing and frustrating to read. Dillon had a super crazy and interesting life and I don't think it was fair to reduce it into a cheesy novel :(. It's written by a woman who doesn't quite get the transgender experience, even if the book is very recent.

Reading recommendation: "True Sex: The Lives of Transgender Men at the Turn of the Twentieth Century." Several stories about trans men in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Been meaning to get myself a physical copy.

i dunno much about them but they're little wedge thingies that you put in your shoes that give you a bit of height.

https://www.amazon.com/4-Layer-Increase-Insoles-Cushion-Inserts/dp/B079JWJB8K/ref=asc_df_B079JWJB8K/?tag=&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312069310759&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=9400109100277268710&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvd...

something like that i imagine. if you search for shoe height inserts this is one off the first things that comes up for me

https://lifehacker.com/5903554/keep-your-hand-from-getting-crushed-during-a-handshake-by-touching-the-other-persons-wrist

As for the question... depends on if the cis dude in question knows I'm trans. It tends to piss me off in that case. The presumptuousness would be bad enough, but so far the advice in these cases has been shit-grade to boot. So much for "expertise".

I've also been on the receiving end of "manliness advice" from guys who don't know my history and are just trying to help out the socially awkward guy. The delivery is different. And so far usually better advice, interestingly.

Hey my dude! Hope you're managing okay.

The other commenters are absolutely correct -- the cramps may be caused by the Plan B. Here's some more good news: If you take Plan B within 24 hours of unprotected sex, it is 95% effective. You're likely in the clear : )

From here, I have a few points of advice:

1. Keep a big o pack of pregnancy tests at home, if you can. I keep these in my bathroom.
2. Consider a birth control. I would tell every trans guy to get on NuvaRing if I could. It treats and prevents atrophy, and prevents pregnancy. Extremely low maintenance, too.
3. Don't beat yourself up! Shit happens. There's nothing to be ashamed of.

I had an abortion when I was nineteen. It was absolutely the best choice I could have made for the situation I was in. No regrets, no shame. Nobody is excited to get an abortion, it just becomes a necessity for some people.

Also, pregnancy tests are the most accurate with your first pee in the morning. Continue to take a test for the next few weeks or so. If you do end up needing an abortion, it's ideal to schedule it as quickly as possible. Your options become more scarce the longer you wait.

Best of luck, my dude <3 Confide in a friend if you can. Don't try to carry this stress all alone.

So for a binder, I'd recommend the gc2b gift card so he can choose exactly what he wants. They are the best binders I know of. Cost about $33-$36 plus shipping.

For a packer, if he doesn't have one at all, I think the MASHO from Amazon is a good starter. It's very modest and was my first packer, but now I just use it to sleep and work out with. Cost $16 plus shipping

I do not understand the point of knowing vote scores at all and use AdBlock Plus Element Hiding Helper to hide them.

I know that's, like, against the the core principles of reddit or something but whatev. Post like the votes aren't there, and if you can't ignore them, literally make them disappear.

https://adblockplus.org/elemhidehelper

Big ol’ ditto on Cica. Here’s a set that you can cut into strips and I think will last you long enough to see a pretty big difference. Amazon listing for 2x Cica silicone 5x6 sheets

If you can’t afford it, DM me and I’m happy to send some your way 💕 (I’m sorry you don’t like you scars, but I want to echo everyone else that they will not read as top surgery scars to 99.9999% of people. And those of us who might be aware of what they are all love and support you)

here's a blog post i wrote like five years ago, i might rephrase it a bit today but still agree with it: https://web.archive.org/web/20110811225856/http://www.thespectrumcafe.com/?p=1748

i guess the spectrum cafe bit the dust cuz i had to search the wayback machine to find it.

There are SO many weird stock photos out there man, it's practically a gold mine. Think there's a few subreddits dedicated to 'em too, r/wtfstockphotos is the only one I can remember off the top of my head though.

My particular favorite is probably this one

I always hesitate to post pictures of myself because I don't pass at all and I need to lose weight and also I just got off of work but here's me in a hat. And a cookie monster T-shirt. It's the height of fashion, y'all.

https://instagram.com/p/zxLKaDIGG4/

There are treatments. This is a genetic condition with some similarities to what is going on with you:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pectus-excavatum/symptoms-causes/syc-20355483

It seems like your latest practitioner did not give you enough information about your condition. Maybe they want to wait and see a few weeks of you not binding so they can make a more accurate prognosis?

One thing that has been making me feel better about this has been reading about transgender people through history. Here's one book I've been reading that's really good Transgender Warriors We can be proud at least to be living our truths even in this world full of adversity.

Got a new haircut yesterday. I don't think it's ever been quite this short before. I am really liking it though, no upkeep!

http://www.imgur.com/6ZyxLSX.jpeg

Also I started an Instagram: https://instagram.com/p/ziQCYFvPMN/

One of the best things I've ever seen on this topic: https://tapas.io/episode/560743

Your hobbies, interests, etc. do not determine your gender. If you are into "feminine" things, that does not somehow mean you aren't a trans man, any more than a cis guy liking those things would somehow mean he was a trans woman. Dysphoria - IMO - is caused by the brain expecting one set of sex characteristics, but instead the other is there, which causes distress. Has nothing to do with hobbies.

It may reassure you to know lots of cis dudes feel "not manly enough" too. If you hop on over to MensLib and poke around a bit, you'll find plenty of posts by men who have struggled with not perfectly fitting some of the frankly unrealistic standards of masculinity out there.

IDk if my link will work. But I'm currently pre-t but in the process of getting a referral :)

https://onedrive.live.com/redir?resid=CE5B902850B3BD69!8729&amp;authkey=!AIUy-cVnGs0TsIc&amp;ithint=folder%2c

super jelly/ excited for everyone on T! you all look amazing!

My doctor told me that the ovaries actually play an important role in bone health and other important stuff like that.

EDIT: I found a source https://tinyurl.com/yck6fl7g Femine terminology warning, I don't like it either :/

It depends on your state. I unfortunately have the feeling that in Ohio you will have few or no options. I remember that you are a student and have a low paying job? (Sorry if that is too personal!) In that case you can probably get Medicaid, which is free, and which covers 100% of everything that's covered, so no co-pay, no anything. If you do that and can get your doc to code your T-related care as treatment for hypogonadism, you can probably get everything related to that covered 100%.

Edit: Here you go. It looks like Ohio uses healthcare.gov, so just go there, fill out the application (I found it surprisingly easy and brief), and it will tell you your options. I'm a very poor student, so it didn't even give me options, just told me I was getting Medicaid (It's called washington apple health here, probably something different in Ohio) - just a heads up if that happens to you, I was annoyed at first to not get to choose but it ended up being a great thing, Medicaid so far gives me better coverage than the expensive plan I previously had.

Unfortunately, this is something that’s so poorly studied/addressed at the moment that all of my info is by word of mouth from online and conference spaces, or from discussions with my doctor without stuff like scientific studies to back it. Here is the WebMD page about Synarel at least (CW for gendered language).

It wasn't advertised it's just the usual from amazon they were out of stock for a while so I'm guessing that's why but only the medium (small on amazon) was out of stock so I'm guessing the small (x-small on Amazon) is still the same but IDK

&#x200B;

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B019YMETC4/ref=ppx\_yo\_dt\_b\_asin\_title\_o00\_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1

I just bought this bad boy and it’s a game changer. I can’t speak for any other body types but as a thin guy with a large chest for my frame (~technically~ a C cup but in practice B cups fit because I’m otherwise thin) this does the job great and looks like a completely normal tank top. Just make sure you use their size chart for this specific product, the measurements vary by product. And it’s Asian sizing so don’t be upset if the size on the chart that fits you is two or so sizes up.

No problem. Make sure take you wash well "down there" to keep smegma from building up. One thing that helped me was a foam athletic cup just to keep make underwear away and make it not rub.

ended up ordering this sports bra from amazon in size XS and it gets me just as flat as my XXS gc2b binder! It's much more comfortable too but I feel like if it shows through a shirt it looks a lot more obviously like a sports bra than some kind of vest or something. It's good enough though- particularly for the price!

Hey all!

I wanted to share my voice progression using the Voice Pitch Analyzer. It's dropped to a passable level, and I'm really excited since my voice was a huge cause of dysphoria and being misgendered. I always thought my voice was low, but clearly not low in a passable way.

I've been on T for about 3 months and some change, and I like seeing progress in the form of data/measurements/numbers. Also, just putting this app out there for those who haven't heard of it (I saw it in an older /r/ftm thread.) who might like seeing data as well.

Have a good day folks!

I’ve fortunately never had a very large hip size and even at pre-HRT I was wearing 30x30 but let me see if I can find some!

Here’s one wearing the same shirt. I lost 30 pounds after this: https://tinyurl.com/ybp5dx56

Here’s one taken a month after the picture in the original post: https://tinyurl.com/ydhpz8gw

A tip from me is to focus on your core while working out. Buff up that core and work on your shoulders and your hips won’t show up so much. You can look through my post history to when I got my top surgery done and there’s quite a few photos showing off my lack of hips!

unsure of what context you’re going for asking this-but i’m ngl a lot of these make me physically cringe, im not on t, but i usually call everything my “dick”.

i don’t think “hole”/“front hole” is that bad, especially in a gay setting since a lot of guys call their asshole their “hole”.

in the past i’ve seen people use the word “slit” in fanfic/smut settings, and looking at a list of other words to call ones “front bottom”- i honestly don’t mind the word “sheath”, it has more scaley porn origins in my mind but it’s not as bad as some of the words used.

In a pinch you can use a plastic soda bottle, but if you have time to order it they make travel size sharps containers. Example here.

I would also HIGHLY recommend you do not pack your T in your luggage and instead carry it on. The temperature in cargo can go below freezing and besides that the TSA has a reputation for stealing meds, especially high value meds like testosterone.

They’re kinda like sports socks or soccer socks. They stop right below the knee. Amazon has tons.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074MW1MTW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_YHY8ZGW511WXXKFV185H?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1

do we have the same mother,,, anyway, underworks has a compression top that’s straight up a t shirt. it’s slightly looser around the middle than their tank tops, and might be able to fly under the radar

https://www.amazon.com/Underworks-Microfiber-Compression-V-Neck-T-shirt/dp/B00BF2J71K

Waxing sucks, I prefer magic shave powder It takes less time and isn't painful.

outplay has some real good swim tops. I got the Sullivan in high compression and it flattened me out pretty well while remaining comfortable before I got top surgery.

BSHETR Men's Jockstraps Athletic Supporters 4-Pack Cotton Work Out Underwear https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WH9KH2L/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_J0V4F1QMFVY0JN3GXM88?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1

i got large, fits perfectly and keeps everything in place

I got my needles and syringes through Amazon. $30 for a 2 year supply.

The exact needles I got are no longer available, but these are close.. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VMR55FC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_ZGSAT7GW23M04ZNVECTT?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1

They come in different sizes, but I use the 18g to draw the t into the syringe, and then switch to a 22g to inject with. Also, make sure to get the luer lock tip.

These are the syringes I use- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QJYGS13/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_ZK1S7EPSY70GSSQBJYQ6?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1

Read Hung Jury, it is a collection of firsthand accounts from transmen with phalloplasty, not a bunch of your straight cis friends. Then decide what you want to do.

I have found Masho and Mr. Limpy packers (and a few others, I think) on Amazon, but for some reason they don't show up when I did a search on Amazon's actual website, I had to use Google...

Masho: https://www.amazon.com/TOMAX-MASHO-FTM-Packer/dp/B00GEH3ULY

Mr. Limpy: https://www.amazon.com/Fleshlights-Limpy-Packers-Packing-Penis/dp/B019YMEONI?th=1

There may be other stuff that doesn't show up in a normal Amazon search, too. I found these by going to Google and typing "site:Amazon.com masho packer" etc.

Try Underworks. They have a something they market as both a sports bra and a binder if that helps your dysphoria any. They use a female model for the picture so your parents won't suspect anything and they sell them on amazon so they're easy to get. I know a lot of guys who use them. Just use the size chart on their website and not Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00I54XBWM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_MQsPCb5EZRQ9C

I was using this https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=de.lilithwittmann.voicepitchanalyzer&amp;hl=en and it said I was in the male range, which confirmed what other friends were saying about me but I wanted something a bit more objective.

Just because you came out to a few people doesn't mean you have to alter your pace for anything. You do you and be comfortable doing so. Take your time and ease into everything if that's what you feel most comfortable doing. I'm sorry your dealing with the imposter syndrome and while I don't have any experience with it, here's an interesting NY Times article about it.

For the hips, perhaps you could look into compression shorts? I know I suggest them often but in my experience they've helped considerably. I have wide hips and while the shorts don't magically fix the problem, it allows me to wear some shirts I otherwise wouldn't. Walmart compression shorts are decently priced.

I wore a hat yesterday! It gave me hat hair. It was this hat (old pic).

Today I'm wearing my same old same old

I like the look of tactical crossbody bags… small messenger bags are a good look also.

I use a bag I got about 10 years ago, though… can’t find it online since it’s so bloody old, but it’s about like this: Swiss Gear Boarding Bag

I just had surgery yesterday! I would highly recommend to take cough drops and button ups to the hospital. That’s about all I needed there. For after so far what I’ve used the most is pillows. I bought a wedge pillow and am constantly using 5 regular pillows and a mastectomy pillow. This is the exact one I got it’s amazing and has a pocket on the front for phone/remote. You could probably make one cheaper! Long phone cord, silicone bendy straws are must haves! Laxitives I would also highly suggest (pain killers will make you constipated). My doctor sent home gauze and tape with me so you may ask before you buy that yourself! Also I bought some face/body wipes and some one time use body sponges since I can’t take a shower for the first 48 hours! I’ll add more if I find anything else useful! If you have ANY questions. Don’t hesitate to reach out!!

Honestly for everyone I've known who's had chest surgery of a variety of types (me, my sister got augmentation, my mom had lumpectomies), one of those extendable grabber tools (like this one ). I found bending over difficult for a while as well as stretching out my arms.

u/humerusmilo 's list was good too.

Joggers! They have elastic waists so you can buy sizes a little smaller and they’ll still be slim through the leg. Especially if you’re shorter like me, you can wear them a little higher up where your waist is a bit slimmer. There’s also a brand on Amazon called 526Jeanswear, they have a “stretch super skinny” jean that has a TON of stretch to it but are SUPER slim on the legs, I have like 5 pairs haha. 526Jeanswear super skinny stretch jeans

I did that with my inner conch because even though I had wanted a ring the stud grew on me and I ended up liking it better, but with my septum it's hard to stick with the basic horseshoe I had when I see things like this somewhere. (Well I do have a similar one, but not that one from amazon.)

Lol I do think stretched ears look good with septum piercings. I thought about piercing my lobes and doing that, but down the line I want to get my ears pointed a lot more and I generally don't like how that looks as a combination. It seems like one or the other is best. Plus I want to get a coin slot (if they're possible together) and that definitely doesn't look good together from what I've seen, imo.

Have you checked out Amazon? You can get a queen size, 20 lb blanket for more than half that here, and it gets really good reviews. Just looking to make your goals a little more attainable!

I do some voice training and I think my pitch as changed (or at least I am more comfortable at speaking with a lower voice, cannot be 100% sure that it wasn't "reachable" even before the training). On youtube you can find a bunch of tutorial to do that, plus you may want to download the app https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=de.lilithwittmann.voicepitchanalyzer&amp;hl=en to track progress.

Don't overdo it (exercises are meant to be a few minutes every day, not two hours straight) and stop if you feel pain in your throat (you don't want to ruin your vocal cord). Pair it with some stretching of your neck.

On the internet you can also find a bunch of stuff about which speaking patterns are more typically seen as "manly", you may try to also work on those, I think people notice that more than the pitch sometimes.

Link to the app: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=de.lilithwittmann.voicepitchanalyzer

It seems to be Android only though. You record a 1 minute clip of your voice reading a paragraph, and it analyzes your range.

That might be a question better asked with the nurses at your doctor's office. Depending on the ICD code they use for the visit, your insurance company won't know that it was for transition (ex. some places bill it as an appointment for an endocrine disorder). Their coverage of the prescription is the same kinda thing. This can be a good thing, as many insurance companies will not pay for transition care depending on the plan and the state (evidence ). If you'll need help paying for meds, look into GoodRx . It's a prescription discount thing accepted at most pharmacies.

this

And this

You’ll want to tell the nurse practitioner - they’re your primary care provider in this situation, basically functioning like your doctor. I recommend reading up on what a routine physical commonly entails so that you aren’t caught off guard. For instance, they may want to do a pelvic exam if you haven’t had one in a couple years.

Here you go: https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/annual-physical-examinations

Didn't know there was going to be a solar eclipse in March! That's awesome. Sounds like the stars are aligning. (SORRY I'M AWFUL.) Also, here's a link with a map of visibility of the eclipse for anyone who's interested. I'm going to actually be able to see it even though I live in the US, because I'll be in Spain! Yay!

The play was written by George Sand (Amantine-Lucile-Aurore Dudevant). She was a prominent femminist writer during her time and was known to dress in men's clothes and smoke cigars. http://www.britannica.com/biography/George-Sand

I think looking back there was dysphoria as a kid, but I didn't have the knowledge I do now. But the idea of being something other than a cis woman is scary. I think it may be a religion hang up. I've watched videos of people who were supposedly delivered from their lifestyle, and it makes me wonder if I'm trying to find answers in the wrong places.

>we need competent and understanding healthcare providers (including reproductive health) and an environment that feels safe and not-unfriendly towards gay men raising kids.

I went out of state to get on T. And despite running in very liberal circles, I literally cannot think of a time when I saw or heard about gay men raising kids.

Also, I'm not sure I would even advise a strait couple to move there, due to the economic mess the Brownback administration left the state in... ( https://www.npr.org/2017/10/25/560040131/as-trump-proposes-tax-cuts-kansas-deals-with-aftermath-of-experiment )

Again, Lawrence is great. There's a special solidarity to being in a "blue dot" town. But is that solidarity worth being surrounded by Kansas? I wound up deciding it wasn't, and and most queer (and especially trans) people I know made the same choice as soon as they could, or are waiting impatiently for the day that they can.

Even if you were using binders for the weekdays it wouldn't be a horrible thing. It's after two+ years depending on the person that damage begins to happen, I've been wearing them on and off for 3 years and have seen no damage so far except for slight chapped nips which can be taken care of with lotion. I also have about a B cup.
walmart has sports binders that are almost t-shirts that are just tight enough to bind you down to the point that your nips won't be showing through clothing. they're super cheap and come in a three-pack, putting a link to them here so you can see what they look like. while you can still see the boobs, it's a helpful option because it's not going to hurt your breasts at all. it's when you start binding with a ton of sports bras, or even one or two of the really constricting ones, that you might see some damage. i'd recommend getting an underworks tritop or a gc2b tritop and see if they might help you out some. good luck!

I figured he was out of network, bc my insurance covers out-of-network at 50% too but I have an out-of-pocket maximum for out-of-network costs that, while it is much larger than my in-network max, is still a cap on how much I would have to pay. Definitely find this information out for your plan, in my experience I haven't heard of an out-of-pocket max being as high as $25K. Honestly if it's less than $9300 you should really consider using your insurance!

I've been rock climbing for over 10 years now, with a few breaks in college when I had no transportation. But since recovering from my top surgery in April, I've been getting into bouldering again more seriously and I have a lot of upper body strength to play around with.

One of my favourite semi-useless strength tricks to do is double-dynos on the campus board at the climbing gym (jumping up a set of rungs using only your arms, no feet). One of the only benefits to accidentally losing 8lb after starting a new anti-depressant is it makes stuff like this much easier since I'm pulling around less weight!

Here I am demonstrating said party trick.

Going to be really lazy and just link to my insta: https://instagram.com/sejtoasts/

Three photos I wanted to use for this are: new Venture Bros hoodie my best friend got me for my birthday (love it), my timeless Quantum Leap shirt, and my porn wig

The generic is testosterone cypionate. Also, check what your doctor wrote on the prescription - if it wasn't for a 10mL vial, have them change it. If it was 10mL and the pharmacy still would only give you one month's worth, ask for clarification.

I know some people around here have gotten goodrx.com coupons to work for them, although that might not help with the one-month thing. Why not an online/mail order pharmacy? Strohecker's has been serving the trans community for years and is very reputable. Costco's online pharmacy also has t [you do not need to be a Costco member to use the pharmacy].

The good news is that usually it takes a while to get all the ducks in a row. Once i decided i really wanted lower surgery, it took a few years to sort everything out. I just kept many pokers in the fire at once.

For me, once i started rolling forward, it was easier to deal -- i was making good forward process to reach my goal, and that felt really good! I could also see the end was in sight, which also provided relief.

Based on what you describe here i'm seeing several things you can do all at the same time:

• researching insurance options, processes, and making any adjustments to plan necessary. The approval process sounds like it can take a bit of time too -- i defer to others for details (i paid out of pocket)

• saving money, maybe even digging deeper into spending habits, investment/money-storage strategies, and making adjustments as needed. Sites like https://www.mint.com can be useful.

• scanning your social network for potential caretakers you can work out a trade with.

• staying up-to-date on surgical techniques you're interested in. Eg. my preferred surgeon when i started saving up was not my preferred surgeon by the time i scheduled my appointment! And remember there are many methods for phalloplasties, scrotoplasties, urethroplasties, vaginectomy/colpecliesis, etc. to choose from, even from the same surgeon.

• researching your preferred surgeons, collecting stories of experiences and logistics.

• finding health providers in your local area for follow-up care -- esp. any trans-friendly urologists

• research common surgical complications for your preferred techniques, and start game-planning your strategies -- emotional and logistical -- for handling them

• After you schedule your appointment there is often a decent chunk of time to deal with logistics of travel, lodging, care-plan, etc.

You usually do have to be off testosterone when you have your eggs frozen, and you have to have a couple menstrual cycles. You then take injections of synthetic ("female") hormones to cause your body to produce multiple eggs. You can read a bit about the procedure here.

For anyone interested, the link OP provided has a gentleman listed, Robert Eads, under the 'Notable trans men' section. Mr. Eads died in 1999, but a documentary was made about him called Southern Comfort. I haven't yet watched it but I will. I am just posting to provide anyone interested with the link to watch Southern Comfort.

Here is Robert Eads wiki page.

Thanks /u/King_Max_Cat21 for this post!

Is there any way you can maybe get a sports bra? I have 2 recommendations. The first one is the one I use, the magicotton from Underworks. It's completely gender neutral looking and it even has a small tag that has the size B/C/D in it so it's definitely a sports bra. It gets me really flat and it has the bonus of being good for exercise. The only con is that it's better for smaller guys. It only fits up to a 44 inch bust, so if you're a heavy-set guy it likely won't fit since they're true to size.

The other one I haven't used, but I hear good things about is the Champions Women's Plus-size Vented Compression Sports Bra found here. This one is better for more heavy-set guys. It's also pretty good at getting you flat from what I hear. It's a sports bra, so your mom is gonna have to grasp at straws to take it away from you.

Hi im not trying to hijack your post or anything but you can also buy one of these cheap medicine dose things and just cut off the rounded end and that could make for an stp as well. I just saw diy stp and thought maybe this might be helpful as well. I added a link to the thing im talking about below.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001GBH6RM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_imm_ZFTT46599QZAQJGB7K7Q

I have used a wetsuit vest in the past. It’s better than a tshirt and sports bra but it’s not a binder so it won’t get you as flat as one. But it holds things pretty decently. Here’s the link to the one I used. Use their size chart. It’s accurate.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071D7WQF8?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

I ordered an underworks swim binder for this summer to try out. Hasn’t come in yet though so I don’t have a review on it yet. Best of luck!

This is the only one I found that isn’t out of stock. The one I used personally is this one, but currently out of stock. If it counts for anything, there’s plenty of people that use ace bandage post-op, so that might be an option for you if the post-surgical binder is pricey or you can’t find one in stock. Congratulations, and good luck!

It's not going to grow back thicker, even after the first time. It should grow back, I don't see why it wouldn't. If you're really worried about that though you could use something like this. It doesn't completely get rid of the hair. It just shortens it

Haven't had surgery yet, but I bought a wedge and I already love it. Seems like it will be super useful, and I've already fallen asleep on it twice, lol.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MW65LG6/ref=cm_sw_r_u_apa_glt_fabc_AKVE20Q17H9M9VT9TNMJ?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1

That binder is unsafe due to the clasp preventing even compression additionally they don’t tend to bind very well, $30 should be enough for an underworks they also sell on Amazon the binder youve brought you can return the one you’ve got, underworks is a reputable brand and they sell a few different binders definitely look into them and return the other one I know this might feel like a kick in the teeth but an underworld binder should arrive soon and you’ll be thankful later

I use some jojoba oil to moisturize and baby shampoo to clean it. I use this beard trimmer/razor. Also congrats on your beard!

I do long canoe/backpacking trips so lots of walking. I use a foam athletic cup like this as it is cheap, light and keeps my underwear away from myself. When I am on trail I don't pack because the cup gives a bulge. I hope this helps :)

Idk if this will help but I shoot in my thigh and I use these ones off Amazon they fit my 1mm syringe but syringe tops appear to be mostly universal, please look into if they would work for yours though

25 Gauge by 5/8” - 200 Bulk Package https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078YH18MQ?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Dispbl Sterile 100Pack 21g 1 inch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B081LLT8ZJ?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

The wedge pillow is seriously worth its weight in gold. It made both sleeping and getting into/out of bed really easy and comfortable. I got this one but I think if you poke around amazon you can find cheaper ones. The 12" height is key though!

There is this packer on amazon: https://www.amazon.com/TOMAX-MASHO-FTM-Packer/dp/B00GEH3ULY !!!! I fucking love the thing. And if you could get something not on amazon I might recommend a gc2b binder, I love mine. Also, thrift stores are good places to get clothing. Savers is a life saver. So is Walmart. Good luck, dude.

Edit: i think it may come in something other than white. I can't check because it not available at all right now. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00IYRRXZG/ref=pd_aw_sim_121_of_17?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;refRID=489HRVYGRZT7V8S9VGCT&amp;th=1 is in stock and comes in 'chocolate'. $13

Awesome, good luck! I'm home recovering from that right now. The whole experience was much less painful than I expected, but I found the drains to be a nuisance. If you have drains and can overnight yourself a little belt from Amazon to hold the drains, I'd recommend (i'll put a link for the one I used at the end). Also, the usual recommendations: have tons of washclothes, baby wipes, pillows, a loofah thing on a stick for the shower, put everything you'll need for a few weeks at waist level or below around the house so you can feel at least mildly self sufficient, even though other people will be doing almost everything for you the first few days. Some people seem to be posting pics of themselves, like, at the beach the next day. That is crazy. I spent the first 4 or 5 days sleeping almost upright in a chair or on the couch. I'm 10 days out and walking a few feet to Chipotle yesterday after my doc's appointment was a major accomplishment. Give your body lots of time to recover and be lazy for as long as you can, with lots of binge watching of tv shows and movies. Cheers! Here's the drain holder I used: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JH0OJDI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1

Packers, absolutely https://www.amazon.com/TOMAX-MASHO-FTM-Packer/dp/B00GEH3ULY/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=hpc&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1513158990&amp;sr=1-4&amp;keywords=ftm https://www.amazon.com/Limpy-Fleshlight-Flaccid-Bulge-Stuffer/dp/B019YMESMA/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=hpc&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1513159008&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=mr%2Blimpy&amp;th=1

I don't think 3 in 1s are on Amazon though.

I checked on amazon and apparently you can buy just the tote for $33.

Victoria's Secret Black Love Sequin Tote Bag https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075BQVDFT/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_VvQyAbETMDK95

Try googling to see if there are cheaper deals.

This is the cheapest Underworks binder, iirc. Slightly more expensive Amazon version.

If you look in the buy/sell thread, people often sell old binders for cheap. Check this sub often or search "free binder"/"binder giveaway" and sort by new.

Try to buy a binder from a reputable brand, especially if you're on the larger side.

Absolutely. You can buy the Underworks tri-top chest binder on Amazon, which is one of the two most popular binder brands in the US and also my favorite binder. Get the half-tank option. Underworks FTM Extreme Tri-Top Chest Binder Top 983 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M2CV9PR/?&amp;ref=flgs_ip_share

One binder is $36 on Amazon. Make sure you select the single binder, they also sell 3-packs for $85. Go to the Underworks website to do your measurements to determine your size.

I just bought these shorts in a size Medium, and my measurements are 30"waist, 42"hips. They fit perfectly, and look awesome with my white tank binder and a hawaiian shirt (I am 1 longboard away from being the biggest douchebag in history).

&#x200B;

In generally all the "slim fit", "stretch" and "athletic fit" Amazon Essentials have been bomb. Their slim-fit joggers are light weight and honestly alleviate 99% of my hip/thigh dysphoria when I wear them. Their basic T's are also awesome weight and fit!

As for tops, I've been a big fan of Wolfpack for a while. Their stuff is geared towards traditionally femme-shaped bodies, but creates an awesome masc silhouette. They have a bunch of light button-downs I suggest checking out!

Sure! I got one pack from Amazon, but then found out it was cheaper to get it from walmart, but that'll depend on where you live. I'm in Canada so all the prices I mention will be in CAD. https://www.amazon.com/Rogaine-Minoxidil-Regrowth-Treatment-Thinning/dp/B0012BNVE8 Also, it's a lot cheaper to get the three pack than get a single every month. It's $30 for each in the three and I paid $119 (plus tax) for it whereas you'll end up paying $50-$60 if you get a single each month. Hope this helped!

but YOU see them! that's the important thing. I don't like fancy underwear cause anyone sees them, I like how I look in them. (insert cool emoji) yeah by far briefs are 100% easier to wear in skinny jeans, let me try to find the brand real quick that I bought and you can test'em out for you. they're on amazon, and I think they're fairly cheap.

found them,here.

A few comments on some of your stuff:

VPN- TunnelBear is free (2 gb) to use and easy to use. I wouldn’t define it as secure though but it will suffice to keep you private on the WiFi network.

Buses- if you have a bus service near you learn how to use it. It will be really helpful. If not, consider getting a bike.

Work (for escape purposes) for ppl under 18- when I was an older teen I did a Lot of volunteer stuff out of town to stay away from hostile, transphobic, and narcissistic parents. Look into volunteer jobs you can do at trans friendly places. It’s wonderful to have affirming people around you.

You can find it on whatever platform your phone is on. It's on the Play Store for Android and the App Store for iPhones.

Edit: I derped for a second and forgot to link the actual link as well. I have an Android so I can only link to the Play Store, but the link is here.

Hey dude, I have found this app called "Home Workout - No Equipment" to be really useful, here's the link for Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=homeworkout.homeworkouts.noequipment There's an iPhone version too https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/home-workout-no-equipments/id1313192037?mt=8 It gives you exercise routines to do step by step (you pick a muscle group and difficulty level for the session) and it tells you #of reps and then times your rest breaks for you. Also you can track progress with it and it will remind you to work out. All around great app for not having to go to the gym or have any equipment/experience. Hope this helps and congrats on upcoming surgery!

I use Voice Pitch Analyzer on my Android phone: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=de.lilithwittmann.voicepitchanalyzer &nbsp;

I use Praat on the computer: http://www.fon.hum.uva.nl/praat/

&nbsp;

(Sorry for the links; I'm on mobile)

I don't have a go fund me because I feel bad about asking for money when I can't actually make my own money due to Agoraphobia. I do however have a live wallpaper for Android phones that my father and I designed. It's pretty cheap and most of it goes to my surgery (otherwise it goes to my dad for actually making it) If you've got a minute please check it out :) Thank you

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=uk.co.candycode.LGBTQLWP

yeah, i believe i've had something similar. (not medical advice) it's probably: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sebaceous-cysts/symptoms-causes/syc-20352701

but maybe mention it to your doctor at your next appointment?

I went from Axiron (I think it's not available anymore, it was topical under the armpit stuff) to Reandron. My body reacted better to Reandron but it took a while to get the right interval between shots. I'm on 8 weekly rather than 12.

I'm no endo but maybe as you're only 3 weeks in your levels are starting to come down from the big peak from the loading dose and you're starting to feel funky because of that. I wasn't sure from your post if you have had bloods done and know that your levels are lower or that you just feel 'off'. Here's a graphic as I'm not exactly sure how to explain what I mean (https://tinyurl.com/ybxdlyro).

Hello fellow Tennessean!

Yes, it's possible to play sports in a binder. I played football and basketball in high school while binding. As others have said, make sure you listen to your body. I cannot stress this enough. I would recommend bringing a sports bra or two to change into just in case a binder gets to be too much.

As for shirts/tanks, I recommend the wonderful muscle tank. They often have wider shoulder straps and they don't cut so deep into the armpit area, meaning your binder isn't exposed when lifting your arms or anything. They're pretty affordable but if you have any old shirts, you can always cut the sleeves off of them and bam! Basically a free muscle tank! When I played football, I'd cut the sleeves off my old white graphic tees, that way there's a design on the front that helps distract from my chest. :)

Tor!! The Tor Browser Bundle is wonderful for getting around internet censorship/surveillance, albeit it a bit slow. Definitely try this, and if the site itself is blocked then I can download it and reupload it to a file-sharing website and send that link to you, so it won't be caught.

It basically goes through a network(the tor network) of proxies before going to the website server that the user wants to access. This makes it anonymous(that's its whole deal, anonymity) and able to circumvent things like this. Hope I helped!

For the curious, here's some info on the app.

Beyond the app, my voice has gone so outta whack that I'm having to learn how to pitch my voice lower to avoid cracking. The past week has been fun for my roommates who laugh whenever I get excited and I want to raise my voice like I used to, but I just hit a wall!

I'm wondering how y'alls experience has been like with changes to your voice? Have you run into any dilemmas/funny situations with it?

Skylar wrote a good post about this.

When you turn 18, use your state's health insurance website and apply for your own. Many states use the government website, but not all of them. If yours doesn't, that site should direct you where to go. If you only have a part-time job you might qualify for Medicaid, which can be free. Also depending on your state, this might cover transition care. You might also check with your university to see what their healthcare is like. Some universities offer health insurance plans as well.

We all understand the desperation but honestly it's just not worth it. This period sucks. But it will pass. Do right by yourself and be safe with your body.

1) Do you live in any of these states? If yes, it is illegal for your plan to have categorical exclusions for trans health services. If no, see #2

2) Do you live in a state that participates in the federal healthcare.gov marketplace, as opposed to a state marketplace? If so, you may be protected by Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act, which applies to any insurance company that receives federal funding (i.e. offers plans through the healthcare.gov marketplace, which Cigna does). The guide linked in the FAQ that you read uses the protections of Section 1557 to make the argument for coverage- in theory you could use the same argument if you meet the conditions of either #1 or #2 here. If you meet neither, your appeal process may be a little more tricky; however, you can still follow the argument set forth in the insurance guide on the FAQ.

I don't have personal experience with Cigna, but I haven't heard anything that would lead me to believe they are notorious pains in the ass regarding appeals (I have Aetna, which I know is a PAIN to appeal with, but my plan is trans-inclusive so I didn't personally have to deal with that).

So, I'd recommend looking for a surgeon that is in-network and go from there. After a consultation, they'll submit the pre-authorization materials for you and if you receive a denial letter from Cigna, you can go ahead and appeal it. Either way, you'll have you decision from Cigna before you have surgery so you can choose to fight your insurance or pay out of pocket, either with the surgeon you consulted with or a different surgeon of your choosing.

Haha, yeah, the music's the best part! I like to zone out and just click/tap. The other one I like is Race the Sun, although I don't know if there's an app version.

In 3 weeks or so you'll definitely be peeing standing. ;-)

I've known for the past 3 - 4 years (and been an egg even longer) so I feel your pain. I'm 22 though, so you're in that "so early" phase to me, honestly. Being pre-everything is hard, but you can transition a good deal even then, regardless of parents and regardless of how much your therapist sucks.

You should look into getting a new cheap therapist (because why not? worth a gamble and you could always go back to shit therapist no. 1 if all else fails) because yours sounds like they just want to delay because you're 17. And or look into informed consent clinics. https://tinyurl.com/ya9mxz8x <-- google search for "informed consent clinic hrt arizona"

The age for informed consent varies from place to place, but if your parents are willing to sign off on T, I would assume they would grant you permission here as well.

Last note is on your job situation. As proven by your post, you most certainly can talk on here, so for the sake of getting a job, pretend you know whoever you're talking to intimately. Feel free to PM me if you have specific concerns about public speaking or assertiveness. I did impromtu speaking in speech and debate in HS and continue to coach.

You got this boo. We believe in you, whatever you do.