There are already many good websites, organizations, and books which deal with the typical questions of early transition and that is why we don't repeat them here on Transster. Please consult any of the following resources for introductory information about FTM transsexualism.

There is no clear cut path to being a transsexual, what follows are some basic resources to help you research your options. We are not attempting to oversimplify the process, but just show those interested what we at Transster.com feel are helpful resources when you are considering or beginning your transition.

The Harry Benjamin Standards of Care

This is the document that most legal, medical, and psychological experts refer to when considering issues of transsexuals. You can read it here.

Suggested Reading

Medical Therapy and Health Maintenance for Transgender Men My Gender Workbook Masculinizing Hormonal Therapy for the Transgendered True Selves: Understanding Transsexualism: For Family, Friends, Coworkers & Helping Professionals Body Alchemy: Transsexual Portraits Gender Outlaw Stone Butch Blues

Find a Therapist and/or Doctor for Hormones

When beginning or considering making the transition from female to male, consulting a therapist is usually the first step. The following websites have regional lists of therapists that treat transsexuals. Usually you need a letter from a therapist diagnosing you with gender dysphoria before a general practitioner or endocrinologist will prescribe hormones to you. Your therapist may be able to recommend such a doctor to you, or you can check out the links below to locate one. These sites contain contact information for gender clinics and doctors with experience treating transmen. Dr. Becky's Therapist List Gender.org The Transitional Male Trans-Gender Expressions Ray Carannante, LMSW - A therapist in New York City specializing in gender issues

Name Change Resources

US and Canada Birth Certificate Name Change Information

Online Peer Support Groups

There are many newsgroups, mailing lists, online communities etc. where you can virtually connect with transmen or other individuals questioning their gender identity. You can find some of these groups by searching for "FTM" or "transmen" at http://groups.yahoo.com/.

For surgery discussions check out http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ftmsurgeryinfo

Basic Websites for Early Transition and Those Considering Transition

The following websites make especially good starting points for those interested in the concerns of early transition from female to male. They contain many other links so we don't feel the need to list them all here.

FTM Australia Gender Identity 101: A Transgender Primer The Transitional Male Hudson's FTM Resource Guide FTM Informational Network Trans-Info Project Lbear's Home Page Trans-Health.com Transgender Training and Advocacy Successful TransMen No-op/Pre-op Pictures of Transmen's Cocks FTM Phalloplasty Info Hub Mango Products

Trans Youth Specific Information

transProud - For Trans Youth The Antijen Pages

Significant Others, Friends, Family, and Allies

TransFamily of Cleveland - Good for families in other locations too Our Trans Children - Great booklet by the trans-inclusive PFLAG Transensual Femme - For Femme partners of transguys

Legal Help

In the US the Sylvia Rivera Law Project provides free legal services to transgender, intersex and gender nonconforming low-income people and people of color.

International, National, and Local Organizations

Oftentimes you can find organizations that meet in your area for information, social, and support groups. Sometimes contacting your local gay and lesbian community center may help put you in touch with local transsexual groups. Here are a few to get you started.

IFGE - International Foundation for Gender Education FTM Network Site for the international support group in the UK FTM australia Ingersoll Gender Center - Links contain international resources FTM International

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