Trans Solidarity Project

Category: Resource & Information

  • Essential Apps for Transgender People in 2026

    Essential Apps for Transgender People in 2026

    Mobile apps make life easier. Messaging, shopping, productivity – it’s hard to imagine life today without them. 1.4 million new apps are released each year on the Apple Store and Google Play, and it is estimated that 98% of American adults own a mobile phone. These are some of the best mobile apps for transgender people in 2026.

    Don’t like apps? Here are my website recommendations.

    Wait, what exactly is an app?

    Mobile applications are software designed for devices such as cell phones, smartwatches, and tablets. Most apps are downloaded via the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, but you can get them anywhere on the internet.

    Every app is different. Some are communication-based, like Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat. Others help with money, like CashApp and Rocket Money. Even cities make apps to help folks navigate their public transit – like New York’s MTA and Chicago’s Ventra.

    Reddit: Find Your Community

    Reddit is a forum-based social media platform that hosts thousands of subreddits. Each subreddit is distinct; some are for news, others are for advice, and plenty are for memes.

    If I had to pick one social media app to recommend to trans people, it would be Reddit. Discord would be a close second.

    Transgender people have been communicating via forums since at least the 1990s – there’s a lot of history there. Reddit is the modern extension of underground and anonymous trans culture like Transvestia, Drag, Transgender Tapestry, and FTM International.

    Best Transgender Subreddits to Follow

    There are hundreds of trans-related subreddits, so this isn’t a complete or exhaustive list. Here are my curated choices.

    SubredditTarget AudienceDescription
    r/transAnyone, All-AgesNews and advice. 205,000 weekly visitors.
    r/asktransgenderAnyone, All-AgesQuestions and advice. 522,000 weekly visitors.
    r/MtFTransfeminine, All-AgesAdvice and venting. 379,000 weekly visitors.
    r/ftmTransmasculine, All-AgesAdvice and venting. 228,000 weekly visitors.
    r/NonBinaryNonbinary, All-AgesAdvice and venting. 109,000 weekly visitors.
    r/TransLaterAnyone, Ages 30+Positivity and advice. 85,000 weekly visitors.
    r/mypartneristransCis partners of trans people, Questions and advice. 29,000 weekly visitors.
    r/transgamersAnyone, All-AgesVideo games. 21,000 weekly visitors.
    r/transpositiveAnyone, All-AgesPositivity. 45,000 weekly visitors.
    r/traaaaaaannnnnnnnnns2Anyone, All-AgesTransgender memes.94,000 weekly visitors.
    r/transgendercirclejerkAnyone, All-AgesParody memes. 44,000 weekly visitors.
    r/egg_irlAnyone, All-AgesTransgender memes. 72,000 weekly visitors.
    r/ennnnnnnnnnnnbbbbbbyAnyone, All-AgesNonbinary memes. 7,000 weekly visitors.

    Again, these are just my top picks. There are subreddits for every interest. Trans and like programming? Voice recommendations? Thinking about meta or phallo?

    Always practice internet safety. Reddit is anonymous if you want it to be. Subreddit moderation varies drastically, so some places may be high-quality, and others can be triggering.

    Find Romance: Taimi and So Many Dating Apps

    If you search “transgender app,” all of your search results will be about dating. Even though trans people are disproportionately victimized by hate crimes and discriminatory legislation, we’re also sexual hyperfixations. Thousands of apps cater to chasers, individuals who fetishize transgender people.

    Trans people have a complicated relationship with chasers. They’re easy hook-ups, but generally disliked because chasers objectify trans identity and push our boundaries. I’m not getting into any of these apps in this post.

    Most mainstream dating apps are trans-inclusive, allowing you to specify your gender identity and chosen pronouns in your profile. Out of the most popular dating apps, Taimi, Her, and OkCupid are my top picks.

    Taimi: LGBTQ+ Community and Dating

    Taimi has been around since 2017, originally branded as another app for queer men like Grindr until its rebrand in 2019. Today, Taimi is THE LGBTQIA+ dating app. On the corporate side, Taimi has partnered with various pride events and political campaigns to increase visibility on the harms of anti-queer laws. 

    The main drawbacks of Taimi revolve around its freemium structure. All major dating apps are freemium, but Taimi can be a bit excessive in trying to sell itself compared to its competitors. Taimi also has a LOT of user interface clutter and notifications.

    Her: Queer Social Networking and Dating

    Her was released in 2015 as a dating app for queer women. It’s the sapphic app, designed for lesbian, queer, bisexual, and women-loving women. Her was originally designed in 2013 as “Dattch” to be the lesbian version of Grindr – until Her, lesbian dating sites didn’t cater to actual lesbian experiences. 

    The app is also designed for nonbinary individuals, transgender men, and transgender women. Her also doubles as a general social media platform, providing users the ability to network events and groups. Unlike IRL lesbian spaces, Her prides itself on active moderation to prevent transphobia on its site.

    Like Taimi, success with Her varies with location. Rural areas beyond major cities are deserts, made worse by the fact that Her has fewer regular users than Taimi. Despite moderation, Her struggles with bots and scam accounts like Grindr.

    OkCupid: Mainstream but Trans-Inclusive

    OkCupid has been around for a long time – since 2004, to be exact. It’s owned by the same company that controls Tinder, Hinge, and Plenty of Fish. Compared to other dating apps, OkCupid has a slow pace and uses questionnaires to match users based on values and interests. That pace puts off people who just want to swipe – but that’s part of why OkCupid is a great mainstream alternative for trans people. 

    OkCupid has been actively trans-inclusive since 2014 and was the first major dating app to expand gender and sexuality options. In 2014, the site had 22 gender options and 13 sexual orientations to choose from – and they’ve only expanded from there.

    Since OkCupid is a general dating app, you’ll come across lots of non-LGBTQIA+ folks. However, OkCupid’s design means you’ll be introduced to more people (even in rural areas) who are trans-friendly.

    Stay Safe: Location Sharing and Emergency Apps

    Digital safety is important. Don’t give out your location or personal data without thinking, and take this section with a grain of salt. That being said, it is worth considering sharing your physical location with your immediate loved ones.

    Transgender people face one of the highest rates of violence. And when we experience violence, our deaths are too likely to be overlooked and misreported.

    Life360: Real-Time Location Sharing

    Life360 is the most popular GPS safety app in the United States. Out of the box, it provides free location-sharing and other useful features – like alerting others when you arrive or leave a designated location, notifying your group when its AI detects you got in a car crash, and the ability to send SOS alerts.

    Life360 is considered well-protected from hackers due to its encryption. Like all location-sharing apps, there are legitimate privacy concerns, and Life360 has come under fire before for selling user data. The app primarily sells data to third-party data brokers for targeted advertising and analytics.

    Covert-Alert: Voice-Activated Emergency Protection

    Covert Alert is a voice-activated location-sharing app. The app is entirely hands-free and is triggered by user-chosen keywords to enter “Protection Mode.” From there, Covert Alert will notify your loved ones of your immediate location and what kind of emergency you’re experiencing based on your keyword.

    The free version allows you to choose up to five individuals in your emergency contact list and records up to fifteen minutes during emergencies. Protection Mode is activated regardless of whether your phone is unlocked – as long as the app is installed, enabled, and can hear you, it’ll work.

    Most of the time, Covert Alert isn’t tracking your location – it only pings your location during Protection Mode. However, it IS always listening. Officially, Covert Alert states that personal data is never collected. As of the time of this article, Covert Alert has publicly kept up with that promise, and there are no known reports of Covert Alert violating user privacy.

    Circle of 6: Quick Support from Trusted Contacts

    Circle of 6 was originally designed to combat sexual violence on college campuses, but it’s used by all demographics today. Users are able to connect with up to six trusted individuals within the app. Functionally, it’s similar to Life360 but comes with a few different features, like:

    • Call Me: Request your Circle to call you ASAP to get you out of an uncomfortable situation.
    • Come Get Me: Send your GPS location to your Circle for a ride.
    • I Need to Talk: Indicates to your Circle that you need social support.

    The main downside to Circle of 6 is that it’s less emergency-based. It’s great for helping de-escalate crises, but there are specific scenarios where Life360’s constant tracking or Covert Alert’s voice activation are better.

    Google Maps: Built-In Location Sharing

    If all else fails and you aren’t concerned about location privacy, Google Maps allows you to share your location constantly with others via a copy-and-paste link. The link will share your location as long as you set it – whether that’s for the next hour or indefinitely. You can also shut off your location link at any time.

    To find this option:

    1. Open Google Maps on your cell phone.
    2. Click your profile in the upper right corner.
    3. Find “Location Sharing.” It should be on the same page as “Manage your Google Account,” “Your Profile,” and other shortcuts.
    4. Click “Share Location.”
    5. Choose how long you want to share your location.
    6. Choose how you want to share your link. It’s a URL, so you can copy it to your clipboard or export it to any app.

    Out of all of the location apps, Google is the largest. They’ve faced the most criticism for selling data and privacy concerns. While Google doesn’t require you to use your government name, your profile can still be traced.

    REFUGE Restrooms: Find a Trans-Inclusive Space

    Public restrooms suck. REFUGE Restrooms is a location-based database that lists transgender-friendly restrooms. It’s based on user submissions as well as the old Safe2Pee database.

    REFUGE becomes more useful when more people use it. If you live in a rural area, there may not be a ton of listings – but you and your friends can change that. And since the app lets users rate and comment on listings, you can trust they’re legitimate.

    Check out REFUGE Restrooms

    Finch: Take Care of Yourself

    There are a lot of self-care apps out there, but Finch is probably my favorite. Unlike other self-care apps, all of the important stuff is free and gamifies habits with a virtual pet.

    At its core, Finch provides breathing and grounding exercises, journaling, mood tracking, and plenty of reminders. Finch also allows customized goals and reminders – so you can use the app to remind you to take a binder break or take your HRT.

    If you need reminders but don’t like the self-care aspect, I’m currently using TickTick and Google Calendar. I’ve bounced around from various productivity apps, like Notion, Obsidian, To Do, Google Tasks, Evernote, and Habitica. Use what works for you.

    Binder users might like Binder Reminder, an Android app that sends periodic reminders to take breaks. Unfortunately, like most small trans apps, it was abandoned in 2019 – so your devices may not be compatible with its outdated software.

    Everywhere Is Queer: Support Transgender Businesses

    Everywhere Is Queer is another database app that allows users to find LGBTQIA+ spaces. Its focus is queer businesses to help people shop smarter within their communities. Unlike REFUGE, EIQ is app-only, so you have to download either their Android or Apple software to use the map.

    Like REFUGE, Everywhere Is Queer is user-managed, so the app becomes exponentially more useful when there are more people around you using it.

    Keeping Memories & Transgender Archives

    Throughout the years, there have been multiple projects to create a solid space for transgender people to collectively track their transitions. Unfortunately, none of those projects lasted – but if one proves me wrong, I’ll happily add it here.

    Transcapsule

    Transcapsule was everywhere a few years ago. Its developers promised to create an app by transgender people for transgender people, allowing them to document their transitions with photo uploads. 

    Transcapsule also claimed it would use data to further trans-specific research – although this wasn’t well-elaborated on. Data was meant to be completely anonymized and shared with disclosed partners vetted by the app.

    Its Indiegogo crowdfunder managed to raise its full goal of $4,075, but there haven’t been any updates on the project since a dev post in 2022. The website linked on Transcapsule’s Facebook page and Indiegogo listing automatically downloads some piece of software and doesn’t actually take you anywhere meaningful.

    MyTransHealth

    Designed as a healthcare database, MyTransHealth sought to link transgender people with affirming providers. The page’s last update was in 2019, and the linked website doesn’t work. Today, better resources exist, like the LGBTQ+ Healthcare Directory and OutList.

    Looking for more healthcare resources? Check this out.

    Solace

    Solace was developed to help transgender individuals navigate transitioning. It can be confusing when you don’t know where to start or what options are available – so Solace hoped to bring people curated information for their convenience. 

    The app hosts relevant news, reminders, transition tracking, and verified information on gender transitions. Solace was last updated in 2022 and works on Android versions 7.0 and up.

    Genderfluent

    There are plenty of voice-training apps that advise users how to speak in a more masculine or feminine pitch. Genderfluid is one option and doubles as a milestone tracker since you can see progress over time.

    Use any voice training app with caution since their software isn’t always great at assessing how voices get gendered IRL. 

    r/transvoice recommends Vocaroo, a website that allows you to record your voice from any internet browser. In general, check out r/transvoice for good resources and tips on voice training.

    Trans Memo

    At its core, Trans Memo is an HRT management app. It sends out regular reminders to take medication based on type. Trans Memo even tracks what side injections should be done on, since HRT injections need to rotate to avoid scar tissue buildup. 

    Trans Memo also tracks medication refills to remind users how much of their HRT is left before needing to go back to the pharmacy. Unlike other apps on this list, Trans Memo is still being updated – its last update was April 9th, 2026.

    Know any worthwhile apps that could help trans folks? Share your thoughts and comment them!

  • Estrogen HRT Explained: Injections, Pills, and What Actually Works

    Estrogen HRT Explained: Injections, Pills, and What Actually Works

    HRT, also known as hormone replacement therapy, is the use of synthetic hormones to mimic traditional sex hormones. The use of estrogen HRT has been foundational and approved as the best form of treatment for transgender people for nearly a century.

    Want to know more about HRT? Read about the general basics here or check out advanced information here. Or read about testosterone-based HRT here.

    What is Estrogen HRT?

    Estrogen is the primary sex hormone that produces “feminine” attributes, such as breast growth and body fat redistribution. Estrogen is prescribed to individuals assigned male at birth as part of their gender transition and monitored by their healthcare team to replicate natural estrogen production levels in cisgender women.

    Does estrogen HRT require hormone suppressants?

    Actually, no. Anti-androgens are not strictly required, although they are commonly prescribed as part of transfeminine hormone replacement therapy. 

    Individuals with low natural testosterone levels can be adequately suppressed by estrogen alone through a negative feedback loop. Natural testosterone can also be suppressed by high estrogen levels in estrogen monotherapy, but this is only possible with injectable estrogen.

    Combined use of anti-androgens with estrogen provides more effective and reliable results by pushing one’s testosterone levels into a cisgender female range. Many transgender women use anti-androgens such as:

    • Spironolactone
    • Cyproterone Acetate (CPA)
    • Bicalutamide
    • GnRH Agonists

    Finasteride and dutasteride are also used in feminizing hormone replacement therapy to block dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the primary hormone that causes male-pattern baldness.

    Isn’t estrogen also prescribed to cisgender women?

    Yes! HRT isn’t just for transgender people and was actually created originally to support cisgender bodies. As humans age, bodies aren’t always able to produce enough sex hormones – so synthetic hormones became commonly used as gender-affirming care to help cisgender women struggling to maintain adequate estrogen levels.

    I’ve heard of progesterone hormone therapy. What’s that?

    Progesterone is another hormone that some individuals use alongside estrogen. Progesterone is the hormone responsible for pregnancy, the menstrual cycle, and gestation.

    There is anecdotal evidence that progesterone improves breast development, body fat redistribution, and mood – but there isn’t much official research supporting its use.

    Estrogen HRT Methods

    There are multiple standard ways to use estrogen for HRT. The chosen administration method depends on:

    • Personal convenience
    • Lifestyle
    • Side effects
    • Hormone stability
    • Insurance concerns
    MethodFrequencyStabiltyProsCons
    Oral1x per dayVery stableNo needles, consistent levelsHigh upkeep
    Topical1x per dayVery stableNo needles, consistent levelsHigh upkeep, transfer risk
    Injectable1x per week, two weeks, or four weeksPeaks and troughsFlexible dosingHormone fluctuations, needles
    Pellet1x per three to six monthsModerate fluctuationVery low maintenanceHard to access
    Nasal1x per dayStableMinimal transfer riskHigh upkeep, expensive

    Oral Estrogen

    Pill-based and sublingual estrogen is the most common hormone therapy route for transgender women and nonbinary individuals. Typically prescribed as 17-β estradiol, oral estrogen is swallowed or dissolved under the tongue once per day. Examples of oral estrogen include Premarin, Estrace, and Estratab.

    Oral estrogen is the most accessible and cheapest form, costing around $10 to $30 per month out-of-pocket. Like topical and nasal therapies, oral estrogen provides extremely stable hormone levels due to daily upkeep.

    Unlike oral testosterone, oral estrogen is completely safe to use long-term. Oral testosterone is toxic to the liver, but estrogen is considered cardioprotective despite slight clotting risk.

    Need help paying for prescriptions that insurance won’t cover? Try GoodRx.

    Topical Estrogen

    Estrogen can be safely administered via dermal contact via gels, patches, and creams. Transdermal estrogen is applied daily in small doses and absorbed by the body throughout the day.

    The largest disadvantage to topical estrogen is its transdermal nature. You must ensure your hands are completely washed after application to ensure estrogen does not transfer to other humans or animals. Avoid skin-to-skin contact on the application site even after it has dried. Additionally, be mindful of swimming, showering, or applying other creams (ex. sunscreen) on the application site since it will wash or dilute the medication.

    Hormone Stability and Pharmacokinetics

    Pharmacokinetics refers to the effects of the body based on the original administration of a dose, including when it is eliminated and the time for the next dose.

    Since bodies assigned male at birth cannot produce sufficient estrogen naturally, regular administration is required to maintain proper hormone levels. The main disadvantage of injectable and implant/pellet hormones is the pharmacokinetic cycle that causes hormonal dips and peaks. In contact, administration routes such as oral and topical circumvent this by being topped off each day.

    Is topical estrogen less effective than injections or oral?

    No. Empirical evidence shows that topical estrogen is just as effective as other routes. This myth is due to anecdotal accounts where users post their results (or lack thereof) online, creating the illusion that topical HRT is less effective. 

    The effectiveness of HRT is determined by hormone levels and genetics, not the administration route. When undergoing hormone replacement therapy, a healthcare professional will monitor your hormone levels and adjust your prescription as needed.

    In other words, your provider is going to make sure you obtain optimal hormone levels regardless of whether you use oral, topical, or injectable estrogen.

    If you’re intentionally seeking less noticeable or slower results from estrogen, that’s also an option – but you’ll need to find a provider that is knowledgeable in low-dose hormone replacement therapy since it is not the norm. Again, the administration route doesn’t matter; lesser or slower results are caused by a lower estrogen dose for a finite amount of time.

    Injectable Estrogen

    Estradiol injections typically come as estradiol valerate (Deletrogen) and estradiol cypionate (Depo-Estradiol). Medication is self-administered via syringe once per week, although this can vary to every other week, every three weeks, or monthly, depending on prescription and personal preference. 

    Since estrogen can be safely administered via tablet, injectable estrogen is less common among transgender women compared to transgender men. Injectable estrogen is usually preferred when high doses are necessary that oral medication can’t accommodate.

    Injectable estrogen comes in two forms.

    Intramuscular Injections

    Intramuscular injections, also known as IM, use long, thick needles to inject estrogen into muscle tissue. Needles range from 1” to 1.5” and 21 to 23 gauge. Needle length varies based on individual need – the needle must be long enough to puncture the muscle layer.

    That’s a huge needle! Doesn’t that hurt?!
    Actually, IM hurt way less than they look. The needle is visually terrifying, but the size doesn’t cause any additional pain compared to subcutaneous injections.

    Pain is primarily caused when the needle breaks the skin barrier and activates nerves to notify your body of injury. Once the skin barrier is broken, the needle continues to penetrate down into the fat and muscle layers – but neither of those contains nerve endings that cause pain.

    IM injections are performed on select locations, such as the butt and thigh, since they have plenty of muscle mass. The only complicating factor that may cause additional pain during IM is if you hit a vein. If you do, pull the needle out and try the injection again with a fresh needle and injection site.

    Subcutaneous Injections

    Subcutaneous, also known as subq, shots use smaller needles to inject estrogen into the subcutaneous fat layer just beneath the skin. Since subcutaneous injections only penetrate the upper two layers, they don’t require the length associated with IM.

    Subq injections are compatible with self-injectors like Xyosted, a medical pen that delivers medication via a spring mechanism. While IM can be accomplished with self-injectors, it’s difficult and less common compared to subq.

    Both IM and subq injections are meant to be self-administered, although it is possible to find a provider or family member to help if you struggle with needle phobia. Since subq uses smaller needles, many people find them easier to manage.

    As noted with intramuscular injections, the pain associated with subcutaneous shots will be similar since pain is largely induced by breaking the skin barrier.

    Never reuse needles. Make sure you’re disposing of used needles correctly and find a needle exchange program near you.

    Subcutaneous Estrogen Pellets

    Pellets are a relatively new form of hormone replacement therapy where crystalline estrogen is implanted beneath the skin by a healthcare professional every three to six months.

    Estrogen pellets are exceptionally small (about the size of a single grain of rice) and are inserted under local anesthesia. Unlike other forms of HRT, where medication is typically self-administered, pellets must be administered by a provider.

    Similar to IM and subq injections, estrogen pellets will suffer the same dips and peaks due to their pharmacokinetics. They provide immense convenience since you only have to worry about the application every few months, but you’ll have starker estrogen dips.

    Pellets sound cool! Why haven’t I heard more about them?

    Probably because they’re hard to access. Oral and injectable estrogens are the standard forms of HRT, so you have to go out of your way to request pellets.

    Just because a healthcare provider prescribes HRT doesn’t mean they’re knowledgeable or comfortable with pellets – so you’ll have to find a provider that specializes in it.

    Nasal Estrogen

    Nasal estrogen, such as Evamist, is administered once per day and functions the same as topical estrogen. However, nasal estrogen significantly reduces the risk of accidental transfer.

    Due to how new nasal estrogen is, it is rare to find. As of the time of this article, there are no generic versions available in the United States.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

    Is estrogen safe to use long-term?

    Yes. Long-term use of estrogen is generally considered safe, but only under the supervision of a healthcare professional to ensure your hormone levels are optimal.

    There are lots of scary articles out there that claim transgender-related HRT is dangerous. Studies show HRT is safe, although there is a lack of high-quality, long-term data to assess limitations in previous studies, since long-term studies require… time.

    Estrogen does impact your health, but not in any particularly scary way. Metabolic changes and risk of blood clots increase, BUT these changes place transgender women at the same exact risk as cisgender women with naturally occurring estrogen.

    Does brand name matter, or will using generic medication cause inferior results?

    No. Pharmaceutical companies will say otherwise, but brand name does not impact HRT effectiveness. The only thing that matters is the active ingredients and dosage.

    Does injectable estrogen cause faster results than other forms of HRT?

    No. Accounts that injectable estrogen is more effective are entirely anecdotal and not aligned with empirical evidence. Effectiveness of estrogen is determined by dose and HRT level, not administration route.

    When will I see the effects of HRT?

    That depends on dosage and genetics. Some changes, such as skin and mood changes, occur quickly, while other changes can happen years down the line. Look at the women in your family and consider how puberty impacted them to predict how HRT will manifest changes.

    Read my basic guide to HRT for information on effects and timelines.

  • The Hidden Crisis: Eating Disorders in Transgender Communities

    The Hidden Crisis: Eating Disorders in Transgender Communities

    Gender-diverse individuals are disproportionately affected by disordered eating habits. Research estimates that 12% of transgender people have been diagnosed with an eating disorder at some point.

    There are a LOT of stereotypes about eating disorders, and current psych culture is only beginning to move past those stereotypes. While we are beginning to understand how people of color, men, and other overlooked populations are affected by disordered eating, transgender identity is still invisible.

    Gender-affirming care and strong social support are the strongest protective factors in preventing eating disorders amongst transgender people. Affirming care has been proven to be the most effective and ethical way to interact with transgender patients, although that does not mean all providers are equal.

    Content Warning

    This article discusses eating disorders, medical discrimination, and personal experiences of family rejection.

    Crisis Resources:

    If you or someone you love is struggling with disordered eating, remember that support is always available.

    US Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

    Trans Lifeline

    The Trevor Project

    National Alliance for Eating Disorders

    National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders

    If you reside outside of the United States, contact your local crisis hotline for immediate help.

    The Statistics: What the Research Shows

    Studies report that 12% of transgender people have been diagnosed with an eating disorder. Still, researchers estimate that the percentage is even higher since 30% to 50% of individuals screened positive for ED symptoms despite never being diagnosed. 

    In the general population, 9% of individuals report having been diagnosed with an eating disorder at least once in their lifetime, and 16% flagging positive during screening.

    Results revealed that TGD individuals were more likely to exhibit elevated levels of EDs, DE, and BIC compared to cisgender individuals. Fewer differences in EDs, DE, and BIC between TGD groups emerged, although transgender men/transmasculine people had higher levels of restriction (vs. non-binary and gender diverse people) and compensatory behaviours (vs. transgender women/transfeminine people). Binary transgender people reported higher BIC than non-binary/gender diverse people.

    Doley et al., Exploring the differences in body image concerns and eating disorder symptoms between cisgender and transgender individuals: A meta-analysis

    Researchers are well aware that eating disorders affect all types of people, and folks with marginalized identities are exceptionally more likely to exhibit symptoms. That doesn’t equate to diagnoses, though.

    Diagnosis requires being vulnerable for treatment and finding a healthcare professional well-versed in disordered eating – and hopefully other issues, too, like gender identity.

    What is Disordered Eating?

    Understanding disordered eating is the core of understanding eating disorders and discussing who exactly is affected by them.

    For decades, eating disorders were described as white female conditions tied to excessive food restriction or vomiting. It wasn’t until recently that researchers broadened the understanding of “purging” also to include excessive exercise, which is a type of food restriction common in men. 

    Diet and exercise can be great things, but they can also morph into disorders when combined with too much stress. Eating becomes disordered when:

    • You experience obsessive or intrusive thoughts about food, eating, and weight that interfere with daily life, such as dieting, calorie counting, body checking, micro-biting, compulsive exercise, and avoiding food-based social outings.
    • You struggle to eat in front of others or in public.
    • You develop rituals or rules around eating, such as eating foods in a certain order, cutting food into small pieces, purposely making food less appetizing, and avoiding certain foods entirely.
    • You have body dissatisfaction that interferes with daily life and your ability to enjoy life.
    • You frequently experiment with diets and eliminating food groups, such as believing “all carbs are bad.”
    • You use exercise or purge behaviors as an antidote or “reward” for eating.

    Barriers to Diagnosis and Treatment for Transgender Patients

    Getting treatment for eating disorders can be a rough process, even if you’re willing. Healthcare providers are likely to overlook disordered eating habits and symptoms as part of broader gender dysphoria.

    Ideally, treatment settings should be affirming and support one’s gender identity while receiving care. In general healthcare settings, 50% of transgender people reported needing to educate their own provider about transgender health.

    Albeit limited, studies show that almost all transgender individuals receiving eating disorder treatment experienced misgendering, discrimination, and non-affirming care.

    Multiple participants described barriers to affordable care… Other participants described difficulties finding providers who could provide holistic care, as well as a paucity of mental health providers.

    Cultural responsiveness was also discussed as a barrier, with one participant raising concern that research and treatment have been primarily focused on white patients with economic means.

    Other less frequently mentioned barriers included the lack of access to TGD specific ED groups as well as weight requirements for certain types of gender affirming surgeries resulting in the perception of physicians as gatekeepers for care.

    Hartman-Munick et al., Eating disorder screening and treatment experiences in transgender and gender diverse young adults

    Gender Dysphoria vs. Body Dysmorphia: Understanding the Difference

    Gender dysphoria and body dysmorphia are distinct conditions, but they can co-exist. Gender dysphoria is distress induced from a mismatch between one’s assigned or assumed gender and internal identity. Body dysmorphia is an anxiety-based disorder that causes obsession over one’s perceived physical flaws.

    At its core, gender dysphoria is all about one’s internal gender identity and the distress that comes from misalignment – which is why gender-affirming care is so effective at treating that distress compared to previous conversion techniques. Body dysmorphia occurs when someone has a distorted perception of themselves as ugly or defective, but has no connection to gender identity.

    Why are Transgender People at Higher Risk for Eating Disorders?

    Acceptance is perhaps the strongest protective factor against eating disorders in LGBTQIA+ people. In unaccepting environments, disordered eating provides control when transgender individuals may otherwise feel completely helpless.

    I had a rough coming-out experience with my parents. After coming out, I was surveilled constantly so that my parents could ensure I was “trying” to be cisgender for their sake, which included dressing femininely, not talking to accepting friends, and being barred from online spaces. From religious sermons to moral condemnations, I heard every potentially awful thing one fears when coming out over that year and a half before moving out.

    At the time, I felt I could not control any meaningful aspect of my person. I was no longer allowed to use my GC2B binder, I was being forced to grow my hair out, and I was even being forced to wear panties. I constantly walked on eggshells out of fear that the wrong move would create another lecture and outburst.

    Disordered eating provided control over my physical body when I felt I had no other options. I had read somewhere online that food restriction could stop one’s period, and everywhere I looked, thinner bodies were more androgynous. If I weren’t allowed to bind or even consider a future of HRT, maybe I could try passing by losing weight from my chest and hips and working out.

    Every morning, I would eat a half-cup of dry oats with a marginal amount of water – something that was readily available from my mother’s ongoing weight loss journey. 150 calories. Due to my family’s socioeconomic status, I had reduced lunches at school that allowed me the freedom to not eat what I wanted. For most school lunches, I had about 400 calories. After school, I’d purposely skip dinner and tell my parents I had eaten a free meal at work.

    I began jogging more frequently, working out at the gym on my family’s pass, and looked up natural ways to boost testosterone. With my work income, I’d buy supplements from the supermarket like DHEA. I counted every calorie. 

    And I was successful – I managed to stop my period for months at a time, and I felt like I passed more frequently despite how long my hair had gotten. But everything felt obsessive. I vividly remember my AP chem teacher pulling me aside after class out of worry since my grade was slipping, but deflecting because any admission meant a possible phone call home, which meant another lecture. On my worst days, I didn’t eat out as a punishment to myself for being a bad kid to my parents because I genuinely believed I was corrupt.

    After leaving home and starting transition, my disordered eating and self-harm habits stopped. However, a few years later, I had a falling out with a friend that left me completely isolated, and I began utilizing old habits and a spiritual downward spiral. I managed to pull myself back out with a new understanding of my boundaries and habits. Even today, it’s something I’m mindful of.

    Transgender people are more likely to engage in disordered eating because they lack control over their physical and emotional boundaries. Additionally, eating disorders effectively limit and stunt secondary sex characteristics during puberty when transgender youth are unable to have gender-affirming care. Even amongst transgender adults, mainstream passing culture and transgender celebrities prioritize skinny bodies to reflect a thin beauty standard.

    What Does Gender-Affirming Eating Disorder Treatment Look Like?

    For gender-diverse individuals to get effective treatment for disordered eating, they must have access to quality care. Primary care providers, psychologists, and eating disorder professionals must be committed to understanding transgender identity to foster spaces where transgender folks are safe enough to be vulnerable and heal.

    Due to its history, mental health treatment centers have a long way to go before getting the public’s trust as safe environments. Ideal treatment facilities will have publicly available information for transgender patients to view on chosen name and pronoun usage by staff.

    Body-gender congruence through gender affirming social and medical interventions (e.g., hormone therapy) were noted as significant for alleviating body image problems and facilitating eating disorder treatment.

    Heiden-Rootes et al., A scoping review of research literature on eating and body image for transgender and nonbinary youth.

    Treatment providers must understand gender dysphoria and transition goals to effectively help transgender people with eating disorders. Forcing a transgender person to gain weight they are avoiding to avoid appearing androgynous won’t be effective and cause significant distress. Eating disorder treatment needs to be integrated with gender-affirming care, such as HRT and general mental health services, to be optimal.

    Treating ED[s]…can run directly up against interventions for tgnc [transgender/gender nonconforming] people. So…if you have an ED…you are often encouraged to practice radical body acceptance or do a lot of body meditations/somatic work where you are trying to push yourself to be in your body. While this works for many cis people, this is sort of the exact opposite of what works for tgnc people, allowing us to make choices about our body changes and helping us live with the dissonance between our bodies and brains.

    Hart-Munick et al., Eating disorder screening and treatment experiences in transgender and gender diverse young adults

    Reframing Recovery: Why Body Neutrality Comes Before Body Positivity

    We exist in an age where body positivity is highlighted. Contrary to what most might think, body positivity isn’t effective for helping those struggling with disordered eating. Forced positivity and mantras can help some folks, but there is a wide gap between their current reality and a potential future that seems feasible.

    Body neutrality is critical to move people from distortion. You aren’t going to love your body suddenly after a few weeks of treatment. But you can see your body… as a body. Focus on how well it does from a purely functional standpoint on keeping you awake and alert. Separate thoughts of worth (both negative and positive) from appearance.

    Eating disorder recovery doesn’t require you to love your body. The goal is to be functional.

    How to Support a Transgender Loved One Struggling with Disordered Eating

    It is distressing to see someone you love struggle with an eating disorder. As much as you love them, you alone won’t be able to fix them. Here are some practical tips for helping a transgender loved one with disordered eating:

    • Express your concern appropriately. If you have identified potential warning signs, have a delicate conversation in a private setting where they won’t feel embarrassed or defensive.
    • Avoid commenting on weight and body changes in everyday conversation, both positive and negative. 
    • Validate the frustration and distress of gender dysphoria, but don’t reinforce harmful behaviors.
    • Don’t moralize food, like equating sweets or carbs as inherently bad.
    • Recognize that it’s difficult to get help for disordered eating. Eating disorders provide a false sense of control and identity, so giving that up for treatment can be terrifying.
    • Encourage and connect them with affirming professional care. Support their commitment to recovery and offer to accompany them to appointments if they’re especially anxious.

    You are never alone. Even if transgender identities are largely invisible in current eating disorder treatment approaches, there is always help available, and you are worth fighting for.

    References, Resources, & Further Reading

    American Academy of Pediatrics. (n.d.). Policy statements and resources on transgender and gender-diverse youth. https://www.aap.org

    American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed., text rev.; DSM-5-TR). American Psychiatric Publishing.

    Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders. (n.d.). About ANAD. https://anad.org

    Doley, J. R., et al. (2026). Exploring the differences in body image concerns and eating disorder symptoms between cisgender and transgender individuals: A meta-analysis.. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41494283/

    Hartman-Munick, S. M., et al. (2020). Eating disorder screening and treatment experiences in transgender and gender diverse young adults. Journal of Eating Disorders. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1471015321000441

    Heiden-Rootes, K., et al. (2023). A scoping review of research literature on eating and body image for transgender and nonbinary youth. Journal of Eating Disorders. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37740228/

    Maintenance Phase. (n.d.). Maintenance Phase [Audio podcast]. https://www.maintenancephase.com

    National Eating Disorders Association. (n.d.). About NEDA. https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org

    Taylor, S. R. (2018). The body is not an apology: The power of radical self-love. Berrett-Koehler Publishers.

    The Trevor Project. (n.d.). Research and crisis services. https://www.thetrevorproject.org

    Trans Lifeline. (n.d.). About Trans Lifeline. https://translifeline.org

    Erickson-Schroth, L. (Ed.). (2014). Trans bodies, trans selves: A resource for the transgender community. Oxford University Press.

    World Professional Association for Transgender Health. (2022). Standards of care for the health of transgender and gender diverse people (Version 8). https://www.wpath.org

    Food Psych. (n.d.). Food Psych [Audio podcast]. https://christyharrison.com/foodpsych

  • Flying While Trans: What to Expect at TSA

    Flying While Trans: What to Expect at TSA

    Roughly 12 million people fly each day, ranging from short business commutes to long-distance journeys. After aerial terrorism, largely stemming from 9/11, air travel requires intensive mandatory screening. Each country has unique screening guidelines; here is the most pertinent information for individuals who are transgender and encounter TSA.

    CONTENT WARNING: This post discusses airport security and a personal account of TSA transphobic harassment, forced strip searches, and mistreatment. Reader discretion advised.

    What is the Transportation Security Administration (TSA?)

    The Transportation Security Administration was formed by the United States Department of Homeland Security in 2001 to enforce safety regulations. TSA coordinates with local law enforcement to secure American highways, ports, and railroads, but its primary focus is air travel.

    While TSA is an American agency, all countries enforce similar mandatory screenings. Most countries require screening upon entry into an airport for all departing flights and for international arrivals.

    How Effective Is TSA Screening?

    Compared to other US agencies, TSA is relatively young, and its detection rate makes it fairly controversial. Experts state that TSA screening is largely “security theater” to comfort travelers and deter some criminals.

    When tested by the Department of Homeland Security, TSA has routinely failed to detect 90% of explosives and other weapons despite its massive $9.7 billion budget.

    Standard TSA Procedures (What Everyone Goes Through)

    The following procedures are universal to all TSA screenings unless you participate in PreCheck or CLEAR+ (more on those later).

    Secure Flight Prescreening and Watchlists

    Before you ever arrive at the airport, TSA engages in Secure Flight that ranks passengers’ “risk level” based on names and watchlists. 

    The Privacy Impact Assessment and System of Records Notice state that personal information collection is supposedly minimized, but the main purpose of the Secure Flight prescreening procedure is to block folks on either the No Fly List or individuals marked “Do Not Board” via the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

    Checked Baggage Screening

    Upon arriving at the airport, you may need to check in your luggage. All US flights provide free carry-on and/or personal items, but there are different restrictions on what may be brought in those bags compared to checked.

    The majority of checked luggage is screened without conducting a physical bag search, directing the luggage onward to your planned airline. If TSA does conduct a physical bag search, a notice will be placed inside your bag. Luggage lost or damaged during screening can be filed with TSA directly, although luggage lost or damaged during transport is filed via your airline.

    Don’t have checked luggage? Continue on to your nearest TSA checkpoint – unless you need to check in with your airline for a physical boarding pass.

    Can I lock my checked baggage? Yes, although it won’t really matter regarding TSA. TSA officers use universal master keys certified with Safe Skies Luggage and Travel Sentry to unlock commercially available locks for physical bag inspections.

    If they are unable to remove your lock for inspection, TSA reserves the right to cut and remove locks during screening.

    Carry-On vs. Personal Items

    Carry-on luggage refers to bags that are taken with you on the plane, in contrast with checked baggage, which is stored on the plane separately from passengers. Personal baggage falls under the same screening procedures as carry-on; the only difference between carry-on and personal luggage is size.

    REAL ID Requirements and Identification Checks

    As you approach a TSA checkpoint, you will have to present your identification and boarding pass to an officer after queuing. Identification must be certified as a REAL ID, United States passport, or similar. Regular IDs and driver’s licenses now incur $45 fees at the checkpoint to pass.

    REAL ID is fully in effect. The law was passed some time ago, but TSA will now fine all passengers who do not have REAL ID-level certification and will not let you pass until certification is presented or the fine is paid. Passports and certain other documents hold the same validity as REAL ID, so if you have a passport, you do NOT need REAL ID.

    Legal gender information and outward presentation do not have to match for you to be entitled to entry. In other words, your ID’s gender marker does not have to be updated for TSA to allow you through. Agents should not comment on the discrepancy, but they may require you to explain your situation to confirm your identification is legitimate.

    3-1-1 Explained and Carry-on Screening

    Afterwards, you will proceed to a scanning queue. All carry-on luggage must be placed on the conveyor belt to be screened by a TSA officer.

    • TSA requires all electronic devices be taken out of luggage and into a separate bin for screening. This includes laptops, monitors, tablets, e-readers, and handheld game consoles. Non-American airports may not require electronic devices to be removed from baggage.
    • Shoes must be removed, although you can keep your socks on. Shoes will also be placed in a bin for screening, as well as any belts, jackets, watches, etc. Leave nothing in your pockets. Most other countries do not require shoes to be removed unless you have steel-toe boots that will trigger the sensors.
    • Most food, especially packaged items and fruit, is allowed in carry-on luggage. Liquids, gels, aerosols, baby food, and breast milk have additional requirements.
    • All liquids and gels must comply with the 3-1-1 rule unless they qualify for exemption.
      • The 3-1-1 rule refers to how each passenger is allowed ONE quart-sized bag for carry-on liquids and gels. 
      • All items must fit inside a ONE QUART bag. 
      • All items must be 3.4 ounces (hence the three) or 100 milliliters. 
      • Any non-exempt items that do not comply with this rule must be checked luggage. Two exemption categories bypass the 3-1-1 and 100 milliliter restriction.
        • Prescription medication is allowed in any amount, including if it is in a liquid, gel, or aerosol form. However, you MUST have prescriptions for all medication, have all medication in its original packaging, and have a reasonable amount of your trip.
        • Breast milk, baby formula/food, and toddler drinks are classified as medically necessary by the TSA and allowed in any amount. These items will be screened separately to detect potential drugs, explosives, and harms.

    In practice, I have never seen TSA actually require a quart-sized bag. It’s used as a comparison tool to help passengers visualize how many 100 ml items they are allowed to bring. However, other counties do actually care and require liquids and gels be placed in a ziplock bag during screening.

    Proceed through the scanner. Your carry-on luggage will be screened separately while your body is scanned by an agent. Any flagged luggage will be pulled aside for screening by TSA.

    Don’t know what should go in checked, carry-on, or left at home? Here is the full TSA list, which can be searched and sorted into categories.

    TSA Body Scanners and Transgender Travelers

    The United States uses Leidos body scanners (or any machine labeled as “Advanced Imaging Technology”) as well as metal detectors. Assume you will be scanned by a AIT machine unless you have PreCheck or CLEAR+, since those are standard.

    How AIT Body Scanners Work

    AIT machines scan the entire body, bouncing a signal on every inch of the body in the tube to detect “anomalies.” As far as we know, the scanning technology is safe, albeit invasive. AIT scanners are NOT transgender-friendly and detect transgender bodies as anomalies.

    There are concerns about data privacy and AIT scanning since the machines keep a small record of what your body looks like.

    The official statement is that this data is eventually deleted, although it is a valid concern in a world hostile to transgender lives. The only reason we put up with it is that we have been trained to accept a lack of privacy for security theater.

    Why TSA Scanners Are Gendered

    This occurs because AIT scans are gendered into a male and female binary. When you approach the machine, a TSA agent quickly and silently assigns you a male or female scan. The machine is hypervigilant and flags anything “out of the ordinary,” flagging mundane things like paper left in your pocket. All anomalies will be covered with a yellow or red box on the imaging screen to indicate the flagged region.

    AIT will flag packing prosthetics, lack of penis, presence of unforeseen penis, and binders. It doesn’t matter if you pack, bind, or tuck; there is a fairly high chance you will be flagged.

    Being flagged does not mean you did anything wrong. Remember: AIT machines specifically do not know how to handle transgender bodies, and it is a flaw in the current system. 

    In my experience, metal detectors cause no issues. Assuming you have put all metal items in the conveyor bin for separate scanning, you’ll pass through every time without issue. Outside of the United States, metal detector scanners are the norm rather than invasive screens like AIT.

    You’ve Been Flagged. What Happens Next?

    If your body is flagged by an AIT machine, you will be required to undergo a pat-down by a TSA agent. 

    The Department of Homeland Security provides TSA the authority to conduct pat-downs as the next step in screening.

    Pat-downs are meant to be less invasive and typically take less than 60 seconds, where an agent uses the back of their hands to apply minor pressure over clothing to detect hidden items. TSA agents have the authority to require the following:

    • Agents are allowed to require clothing to be adjusted.
    • Agents are allowed to require head coverings or pieces be removed. If the covering is religious, see the following section for additional rights.
    • Agents are allowed to conduct a pat-down across the entire body, including the groin, buttocks, and head.
    • Agents are allowed to force you to adjust your stance, typically with your feet apart and arms raised. If you have a disability or struggle to raise your arms, see the next section.
    • Agents are allowed to conduct more than one pass for their pat-down.

    Your Rights During a Pat-Down

    Not all TSA officers follow the rules and may not be committed to creating a safe environment. The Department of Homeland Security states that all passengers have the following rights:

    • You are entitled to request a specific gender to pat you down, regardless of gender identity or expression.
    • You are entitled to have a witness present, including if you are taken for a private screening.
    • You are entitled to be moved to a private area if a public pat-down makes you uncomfortable.
    • You are entitled to have the TSA agent change their gloves before screening.
    • You are entitled to inform TSA agents of medical devices you may be wearing, areas that are painful to touch, or if you have difficulty raising your arms.
    • You are entitled to have flagged luggage screened privately rather than in the public queue.
    • You are entitled to remove any religious head covering yourself, pat it down, and have it tested for residue rather than having a TSA agent directly remove the covering.
    • You are entitled to ask for a supervisor if you are uncomfortable or if a TSA agent’s conduct seems inappropriate.

    Have a question about TSA procedures? TSA can be contacted via the Cares Hotline at 1–787-2227 or the TSA Contact Center at 1-66-289-9673.

    As a transgender man, I genuinely cannot say whether it is better to pack or forgo it during screening. I’ve been told both are the “correct” procedure because it seems TSA doesn’t have uniform guidance they’re trained on.

    I took my first flight in 2022 to Mexico, departing from Chicago’s O’Hare airport. Immediately before me, I had seen a disabled person in a wheelchair be harassed by the TSA, requiring them to stand to screen. Based on the circumstance and my inexperience, I chose to be proactive and told the TSA agents prior to entering the Leidos machine that I was transgender and likely to flag, since I was unsure if my packer prosthetic would cause issues. The agents called over their supervisor and had a conundrum they didn’t know how to resolve, eventually having me pass through the metal detector and undergo a pat-down. Afterwards, the TSA agents reprimanded me for wasting their time and stated that next time I should walk through the Leidos machine without giving notice.

    Later that same year, I took another flight to New York City, also out of O’Hare. Based on my past experience, I entered the Leidos machine with the same packer I had previously and did not notify the TSA agent beforehand. The scan presented a red flag over my crotch.

    This TSA agent gave me a quick pat-down and decided he did not like the size of my packer (which was a 5-inch Freetom), stating I required private screening. I asked why and explained the flag was due to my packing prosthetic since I am transgender, but TSA agents always assume that every flag must be treated as a worst-case scenario. The agent escalated, stating my lack of willingness meant he would likely call the police to arrest me unless he was “gracious” enough to change his mind. My friend had already passed through the screening, so I was alone. I followed the agent to a private room, where he pulled aside another male agent to be his witness.

    Upon entering the room, the agents stated I had to strip naked and emphasized that any lack of consent meant they would be calling the police. Since I couldn’t think of any other options, I complied and stripped down to nothing but the thin towel they handed me. I handed them my packer. Both of the agents snickered, one of them elbowing the other while mumbling under his breath. 

    They both were baffled by the prosthetic and claimed they had no idea what it was, despite my trying to explain beforehand. The older agent took a cotton swab to the packer and left to analyze it while the other agent stated I had to wait, standing with nothing but the towel, in essentially a two-square-foot closet. After an agonizing fifteen minutes, the agent returned with a negative result. Both of the agents were visibly disappointed, but then took to quickly commanding me to get dressed and leave immediately. 

    In the end, I didn’t miss my flight – but I did develop a fear of TSA from the encounter. At the time, I was doing exactly what a previous TSA agent had directed me to – but TSA’s transgender guidance isn’t uniform, and there are always bad actors who use scare tactics to harm others.

    I have had fewer personal issues binding while screening, although it has been a while since I’ve had top surgery. The chance your chest will be flagged correlates to the size of your chest, so larger chests are likely to be flagged regardless of compression. Smaller chests are likely to pass through with excellent binding compression without being flagged.

    Does TSA engage in racial profiling? There have been thousands of jokes made about TSA’s “random” screenings, where agents require travelers to undergo more intensive screenings even if they did not flag any alarms.

    Officially, TSA prohibits racial profiling and states that agents are not allowed to discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, or disability. Unofficially, TSA agents are given too much freedom to “randomly” search anyone they want.

    If your luggage is flagged by the conveyor scanner, it is pulled to a separate belt and must be manually verified by TSA. They’ll open the luggage and look for the item in question to determine whether it’s allowed through.

    As mentioned previously, medical prescriptions are always allowed in carry-on luggage in any quantity as long as it is a reasonable amount for your travel. Always make sure your medication has its prescription label and is in its original packaging. The name on your medication must match your identification. The same applies to needles, syringes, and sharps.

    If you inject medication, some folks use specific bags or kits to transport their prescriptions. They aren’t required, but are good accessories and increase stealth while traveling.

    If you are worried about your medication being allowed, you can also bring a signed letter from your prescribing provider to present to TSA. As an American engaging with TSA, I’ve never had issues requiring this, but have done so when taking large quantities traveling abroad.

    Always keep prescription medication in carry-on luggage. Checked luggage sometimes gets damaged and lost, and you may not be able to get a refill upon arrival. Furthermore, checked luggage is kept in storage that gets extremely cold; medications like injectable or transdermal hormones must be kept at a relatively consistent temperature to stay viable.

    Once you have completed body and carry-on luggage screening, you’re done. Put your shoes back on and proceed with your luggage to your assigned flight gate. 

    After your initial screening, you will not have to undergo it again upon arriving at your destination IF it is domestic. Similarly, domestic layovers will not require additional screening.

    However, international layovers may require you to be screened again during layovers, depending on the country. The vast majority of the world uses regular metal detectors, so it’ll be quick and relatively painless. You will also have to be screened upon arrival at any international destination as part of the customs and immigration process.

    TSA Alternatives: Are They Worth It?

    There are several official programs allow travelers to bypass the traditional AIT screening procedure, but they aren’t interchangeable. PreCheck and CLEAR+ are two of the most common Trusted Traveler Programs.

    TSA PreCheck costs approximately $80 for a five-year plan and gives you access to a separate screening lane where electronics are kept in carry-on luggage, you keep your shoes, jackets, and belts on, and you go through a simple metal detector. PreCheck also requires background checks and interview appointments to become eligible.

    CLEAR+ costs $200 every year and uses biometric data (such as an iris or fingerprint scan) to quickly verify your identity rather than forcing you to use the document queue – which is what takes the longest when screening. You’ll be taken directly to a screening machine. However, CLEAR+ users may still use an AIT machine.

    TSA PreCheck is available at over 200 United States airports, while CLEAR+ operates at about 50. Not all airports that have PreCheck have CLEAR+, and not all airports that have CLEAR+ may offer PreCheck – which is why our fantastic consumer market advises travelers to purchase plans for both programs. 

    If you have money to spend and travel frequently, PreCheck is useful for transgender travelers since it will allow you to avoid “advanced” AIT screening. But again, it’s not cheap nor easy to register for.

    Passenger Support Specialist (PSS) Program

    Anyone is allowed to request services from the Passenger Support Specialist Program. PSS is staffed with TSA agents who undergo additional training to better assist travelers with specific needs.

    PSS is free to use, but it requires booking in advance. PSS must be contacted at least 72 hours before your flight via TSA Cares.

    Grounding, Emotional Safety, and Post-Screening Care

    Before any trip and engaging with airport security, take time to take care of yourself. Be aware of your physical and emotional needs, checking in throughout the process to remind yourself of your limits.

    Prep grounding techniques as part of your travel checklist. This could be downloading a self-care app like Finch, writing down mantras and emergency contacts, or learning specific breathing techniques.

    All transgender people are important and worthy of dignity. Airport screening can be traumatic for all travelers, but it’s disproportionately unfair to transgender individuals.

    Further Resources for Trans Travelers

    Advocates for Trans Equality: Airport Security

    Department of Homeland Security Office for Civil Rights and Liberties

    FlyRights App

    Global Action for Trans Equality

    IGLTAF Transgender Advisory Group

    International LGBTQ+ Travel Association

    Justia: Airport Security & Transgender Legal Rights

    TKO Society Travel Tips

    Trans Lifeline

    TSA Contact Center

    TSA Cares

    TSA Office for Civil Rights and Liberty

    TSA Disability Traveler Notification Card

  • Understanding the Insurrection Act in a New Era of Escalation

    Understanding the Insurrection Act in a New Era of Escalation

    US citizens have rallied to the streets in outrage after the unlawful murder of Renee Macklin Good by ICE in Minneapolis. With ICE escalating without limitations on its authority, protestors are being further agitated due to the injustice.

    In response, Donald Trump took to social media to threaten the institution of the Insurrection Act to punish citizens who fail to conform.

    What is the Insurrection Act?

    Formally known as the Insurrection Act of 1807, the Insurrection Act was a federal law signed by President Thomas Jefferson to empower future presidents to deploy the Armed Forces and National Guard to suppress “civil disorder, insurrection, and armed rebellion against the federal government.”

    What power does the Insurrection Act grant?

    Normally, the Posse Comitatus Act forbids the United States military from coordinating with civilian law enforcement. Military interference in civilian government is considered inherently dangerous to liberty.

    The Insurrection Act temporarily suspends the Posse Comitatus Act, allowing the President to deploy the military to assist civil law enforcement. This can be for a variety of reasons, such as the enforcement of federal court orders (such as during desegregation) or suppressing government uprisings.

    The Insurrection Act was created only to be used in crises that are truly beyond the capacity of civilian authorities to manage.

    However, the Act doesn’t limit when it can be used and is still entirely too vague – which is why Trump has leaned into threatening it so much.

    Are there thresholds before the Insurrection Act can be implemented?

    Yes. However, these thresholds aren’t infallible. The Department of Justice 1964 Memorandum identifies three thresholds:

    1. A state legislature or governor must request federal assistance to put down an insurrection against their state.
    2. A federal court must rule that national deployment is necessary to enforce a federal court order.
    3. Federal deployment is necessary and unavoidable due to “state and local law enforcement completely breaking down.”

    Additionally, all uses of the Insurrection Act are not allowed to override the Constitution. Federal deployment of troops is not allowed to violate citizens’ constitutional rights.

    What are historical examples of the Insurrection Act?

    In the beginning, the Insurrection Act was commonly used during the Reconstruction Era after the Third Enforcement Act in 1871 was created to protect Black Americans from attacks by the Ku Klux Klan. A handful of presidents used the Insurrection Act to handle labor conflicts before President Dwight D. Eisenhower and John F. Kennedy invoked the Act during the 20th century to enforce racial desegregation.

    President Bush signed an amendment to the John Warner National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2007, which permitted the use of military intervention under the Insurrection Act without state consent. However, all fifty state governors issued a joint statement against it and pushed for its repeal in 2008.

    During his first term, Donald Trump only threatened the use of the Insurrection Act once. Following the murder of George Floyd, Trump stated he would invoke the Insurrection Act in response to protests to “re-establish civil law and order.”

    Federal officials eventually talked Trump out of invoking the Act. And although the National Guard was called in response to the January 6th coup, the Insurrection Act wasn’t invoked.

    By Trump’s second term, he had become accustomed to waving the Insurrection Act around. Beginning January 20th, 2025, Trump ordered the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Homeland Security to issue a joint report determining whether use of the Insurrection Act was advisable regarding the US-Mexico border. Months later, Trump threatened the use of the Insurrection Act against targeted cities like LA, Portland, Chicago, and Memphis in response to protests.

    A handful of reforms to the Insurrection Act have been proposed throughout history. Due to the vague language of the Act, it provides a relatively simple path towards martial law.

    Under normal circumstances, this couldn’t be a possibility since the Insurrection Act would only be used under extreme circumstances – but Trump repeatedly threatens to invoke the Act in response to civilian protests.

    He alone determines what a “crisis” must look like to overrule civil law enforcement to deploy national soldiers, and we have to trust that determination will be just.

  • Testosterone HRT Explained: Injections, Gel, Pellets, and What Actually Works

    Testosterone HRT Explained: Injections, Gel, Pellets, and What Actually Works

    HRT, also known as hormone replacement therapy, is the use of synthetic hormones to mimic traditional sex hormones. The use of testosterone HRT has been foundational and approved as the best form of treatment for transgender people for nearly a century.

    Want to know more about HRT? Read about the general basics here or check out advanced information here.

    What is Testosterone HRT?

    Testosterone is the primary sex hormone that produces “masculine” attributes, such as facial hair, a deepened voice, and higher muscle mass. Testosterone is prescribed to individuals assigned female at birth as part of their gender transition and monitored by their healthcare team to replicate natural testosterone production levels in cisgender men.

    Unlike estrogen-based feminizing hormone replacement therapy, testosterone-based HRT does NOT require suppressants since testosterone naturally overpowers estrogen when used appropriately.

    Isn’t Testosterone Also Prescribed to Cisgender Men?

    Yep! HRT isn’t just for transgender people and was actually created originally to support cisgender people’s needs when bodies fail to produce adequate levels of testosterone or estrogen.

    Prescription testosterone is monitored closely and is not dangerous to use, unlike anabolic steroid use.

    Testosterone HRT Methods

    Currently, there are multiple standard ways to use testosterone for HRT. The chosen administration method depends on:

    • Personal convenience
    • Lifestyle
    • Side effects
    • Hormone stability
    • Insurance concerns
    MethodFrequencyStabilityProsCons
    Injection1x per week, two weeks, or four weeksPeaks and troughsLow cost, flexible dosingHormone fluctuations, needles
    Topical1x per dayVery stableNo needles, consistent levelsHigh upkeep, transfer risk
    Pellet1x per three to four monthsModerate fluctuationVery low maintenanceHard to access
    Nasal3x per dayStableMinimal transfer riskHigh upkeep, expensive
    Oral1x per dayStableNo needles, consistent levelsToxic to the liver

    Injectable Testosterone

    Injections are the most traditional form of masculinizing hormone replacement therapy, considered the gold standard for transgender men. The most common forms include testosterone enanthate (C26H40O3), testosterone cypionate (C27H40O3), testosterone propionate (C22H32O3), and testosterone phenylpropionate (C28H36O3).

    Nearly all forms of injectable testosterone are ethers suspended in sesame oil or cottonseed oil that are absorbed slowly by the body due to esterification.

    Injectable testosterone comes in TWO forms.

    Injectable

    Also known as IM, intramuscular shots are the most common form of testosterone prescribed. IM injections use longer, thicker needles to inject testosterone into the muscle.

    Intramuscular injections commonly use needles 1” to 1.5” and 21 to 23 gauge. Needle length can vary depending on individual need since the needle must be long enough to puncture the muscle, although gauge size is standard to accommodate testosterone’s viscosity.

    “That’s a huge needle! Doesn’t that hurt?!”
    Actually, IM injections are not nearly as painful as they look. The needle is visually terrifying, but the size does not cause any additional pain compared to subcutaneous injections.

    Pain is primarily caused when the needle breaks the skin barrier and activates nerves to notify your body of injury. Once the skin is broken, the needle continues to penetrate down into the fat and muscle – but neither contains nerve endings that will cause pain.

    IM injections are performed on select locations, such as the butt and thigh, since they have plenty of muscle mass. The only complicating factor that can cause additional pain during IM injections is if you hit a vein. In the event you do, pull out the needle and try the injection again with a fresh needle and spot.

    Subcutaneous

    Subcutaneous, or subq, shots use smaller needles to inject testosterone into the subcutaneous fat just underneath the skin. Since subcutaneous injections only penetrate those two layers, they don’t require the length associated with IM injections.

    Subq injections are also compatible via self-injectors like Xyosted, a medical pen that is used with your medication to deliver the medication via its spring mechanism. While IM can be done with self-injectors, it is difficult and less common.

    Both subcutaneous and intramuscular shots are meant to be self-administered, although it is possible to find a provider or family member to help if you struggle with needle phobia. Since subq injections use smaller needles, folks find them easier to manage.

    As noted with intramuscular injections, the pain associated with subq shots will be similar to IM, since pain is largely induced by breaking the skin barrier.

    Never reuse needles. Make sure you’re disposing of used needles correctly and find a needle exchange program near you.

    Topical Testosterone

    Testosterone can be safely administered via dermal contact through gels, patches, and creams. Transdermal testosterone is applied daily in small doses and absorbed by the body throughout the day.

    Hormone Stability and Pharmacokinetics

    Pharmacokinetics refers to the effects of the body based on the original administration of a dose, including when it is eliminated and the time for the next dose.

    Since bodies assigned female at birth cannot produce testosterone naturally, regular administration is required to maintain proper hormone levels.

    One disadvantage of injectable testosterone is the pharmacokinetic cycle, causing hormonal dips and peaks. The day following testosterone injection is when testosterone levels are highest, causing side effects like mood swings and acne. Conversely, levels are lowest immediately before an injection and are associated with irritability and low energy, known as “T drop.” This cycle can be heightened or reduced based on dose frequency – some guys inject their testosterone every week, while others take it once a month.

    In contrast, topical testosterone does not present noticeable dips or peaks since it is administered daily. All forms of topical testosterone produce a steady hormone dose with minimal fluctuation. 

    Is Topical Testosterone Less Effective Than Injections?

    “I heard that topical testosterone isn’t as effective as injectable testosterone. Is that true?“
    No. Empirical evidence shows that topical testosterone is just as effective as injectable testosterone. This myth is due to anecdotal accounts since many users post their results (or lack thereof) online, creating the illusion that topical testosterone is less effective. Injected testosterone may produce faster results in the first week, but this is completely negated in the following days.

    The effectiveness of testosterone is NOT dependent on how it is administered.

    Effectiveness is determined based on hormone levels and genetics. When undergoing hormone replacement therapy, a healthcare professional will monitor your hormone levels, and your testosterone prescription will be adjusted based on your levels.

    In other words, your provider is going to make sure you obtain optimal hormone levels regardless of whether it is injectable or topical.

    If you’re seeking less noticeable results from testosterone, that’s also an option – but you’ll need to find a provider that is knowledgeable in low-dose hormone replacement therapy since it’s not the norm. Again, the administration route does not matter; the lesser results are caused by a lower dose of testosterone for a set amount of time.

    Genetics play a significant role in how secondary sex characteristics express themselves during hormone replacement therapy. Regardless of testosterone levels, some cisgender men struggle to ever grow facial hair or get a super deep voice. Testosterone levels influence the pace at which these results will appear, but genetics will cap off aspects like male pattern baldness, erectile tissue size, and body hair.

    “Are there any downsides to topical testosterone? Why would anyone choose injectable testosterone instead?”
    The application route is highly dependent on a variety of factors. Topical testosterone bypasses needle phobia (since there are no needles involved), but it has two main disadvantages.

    Topical testosterone must be applied daily. Injectable testosterone is administered once every week, two weeks, or a month. Once injected, you’re free to go and forget about it until it’s time for the next dose. Thus, topical testosterone has a higher upkeep and is not recommended if you’re forgetful.

    Secondly, topical testosterone must permeate the skin to be effective. This means you must make sure your hands are completely washed after applying to ensure testosterone does not transfer to other humans or animals, and avoid skin-to-skin contact on the application site even after it has dried. You also have to be wary of swimming, showering, or applying other creams (like sunscreen) on the application site since it will wash or dilute the medication.

    As a minor footnote, lots of guys prefer injectable testosterone because it is cheapest. Topical testosterone can be expensive or laborious for insurance to cover.

    Need help paying for prescriptions that insurance won’t cover? Try GoodRx.

    Testosterone patches work the same way as gels and creams. Once applied, testosterone is absorbed through the skin via an alcohol-based gel in the patch.

    Subcutaneous Testosterone Pellets

    Pellets are a relatively new form that administers crystalline testosterone implanted beneath the skin.

    Testosterone pellets are exceptionally small (about the size of a single grain of rice) and are inserted under local anesthesia every three to four months by a healthcare professional. Unlike other forms of HRT, pellets require visiting your provider to directly administer the medication.

    Similar to the dips and peaks mentioned for injectable testosterone, pellets will suffer the same issue. They provide immense convenience since you only have to worry about the application every few months, but you’ll have starker dips during T drop.

    “Pellets sound cool! Why haven’t I heard more about them??”
    Likely because they’re hard to access. Injectable IM and subq testosterone are the standard methods, so you have to go out of your way to request pellets.

    Just because a provider prescribes HRT doesn’t mean they’re knowledgeable or comfortable with pellets – so you’ll have to find a provider that specializes in it.

    Nasal Testosterone Gel

    Natesto is a form of hormone replacement therapy that utilizes a nasal gel to administer testosterone every six to eight hours.

    It works similarly to topical testosterone, but it significantly reduces the risk of accidental transfer. On the other hand, nasal testosterone requires more upkeep since it is administered multiple times each day.

    Due to how new nasal testosterone is, it’s rare to come across. As of the time of this article, there are no generic versions available and are considered too cost-prohibitive for most folks. 

    Oral, Sublingual, and Buccal Testosterone

    Testosterone is also administrable orally through a pill, BUT it is not recommended for hormone replacement therapy due to how testosterone is compounded and dissolved by the body over time.

    The chemical composition of testosterone is frequently modified to improve its functionality and allow the body to better absorb the medication. When modified synthetic testosterone enters the bloodstream, the excess ether compounds are cleaved off during hydrolization and force the testosterone to return to its bioidentical form, similar to naturally occurring hormones, ready to perform its associated tasks. Without the modification, testosterone would not be effective in slowly releasing hormones into the body.

    When oral medications are administered, they are first absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract and passed into the liver. Without synthetic modifications, pure bioidentical testosterone is overwhelmingly metabolized through the liver, rendered ineffective. However, synthetic modifications to oral testosterone (such as methyltestosterone) are extremely hard on the liver and considered too toxic for long-term HRT when other safer methods are readily available.

    Testosterone undecanoate, another form of oral testosterone, is considered safer but is also not recommended since it is eliminated from the body within a few hours and requires excessively frequent dosages that are expensive on the body and wallet.

    Sublingual and buccal testosterone administer medication via dissolving it under the tongue or against the surface of one’s gums. Since it isn’t swallowed, sublingual and buccal testosterone avoids extreme liver toxicity that other forms of oral testosterone cause. Both are virtually impossible to find in the United States.

    Want to learn more nerdy stuff about how synthetic testosterone works? Hudson’s Guide is detailed and explains the chemistry.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

    Is testosterone safe to use long-term?

    Yes. Long-term use of testosterone is generally considered safe, but only under the supervision of a healthcare professional to ensure your hormone levels are optimal.

    There are a great deal of scary articles out there that claim testosterone is dangerous. Studies currently show that testosterone-based hormone replacement therapy is safe – although there is a lack of long-term high-quality data to study limitations in previous studies, since long-term studies require… time.

    Testosterone does impact your health, but not in any particularly scary way. Cardiovascular issues, sleep apnea, and metabolic changes increase, BUT these changes place transgender men at the exact same risk as cisgender men with naturally occurring testosterone. HRT does not put you at an adverse risk, and monitoring prevents potential issues like polycythemia from happening.

    Does brand name matter, or will using generic medication cause inferior results?

    No. Pharmaceutical companies will say otherwise, but brand name doesn’t impact HRT effectiveness. The only thing that matters is the active ingredients and dosage.

    Does injectable testosterone cause faster results than topical versions?

    No. As explained in the topical testosterone section, accounts of injectable testosterone being more effective are anecdotal and not aligned with empirical evidence. Effectiveness of testosterone is determined by dose and HRT level, not administration route.

    When will I see the effects of HRT?

    That depends on dosage and genetics. Some changes, such as clitorial enlargement and acne, will occur quickly, while things like body hair and hairline changes can happen a decade into HRT. Look at the men in your family and consider how puberty impacted them to predict how HRT will manifest changes.

    Read my basic guide to HRT for information on effects and timelines.

  • A Beginner’s Guide to Packers

    A Beginner’s Guide to Packers

    Packing is the practice of placing an object into the crotch to resemble the look and feel of a penis. Even some cisgender men pack when they feel the need to compensate for their natural bulge. Packing is commonly done by transmasculine people to reduce gender dysphoria and can be completed with a wide variety of devices.

    Folx Health
    Them
    Hudson’s Guide
    Trans Guy Supply

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

    Q: DO I HAVE TO PACK?
    A:     Nope. Many people don’t pack since it’s a personal preference. Packing is not a requirement for being transgender, and there are lots of reasons transmasculine people might choose not to pack.

    Q: HOW OLD DO I HAVE TO BE TO PACK?
    A:     There is no set age requirement. With binding, the practice typically starts with the formation of breast tissue – but there’s no comparable process for packing. Packers are NOT sex toys and can be used for any age where there is observable gender dysphoria. There are even packer manufacturers that specialize in smaller age-appropriate devices for youth.

    Q: WHAT SIZE SHOULD I GET?
    A: Any size works, but most guys prefer packers based on their height and weight.     Your packer’s size will affect how you sit, exercise, walk, and move around. Cisgender men typically average at three to four inches while flaccid, but it can also be helpful to compare length and girth based on nationality.

    How do I get started with packing?

    Packers use either padding or phallic shapes to imitate the bulge of a natural penis. If you have never packed, it can feel strange walking around and getting used to it.

    Most folks become acquainted with packing via the sock or gel tube method since both are free.

    Sock Packing

    There really isn’t a right or wrong way to sock pack. Grab a couple of mid-length socks, roll one inside the other to create a ball shape. Adjust the shape until you’re happy with it. Stick it in your pants. Simple as that.

    If you’re wearing briefs or boxer briefs, congrats – your underwear will act as a natural harness to hold the sock packer throughout the day.

    Prefer boxers? Any men’s underwear with a non-buttoned flap can have the packer stuck between the fabric flaps and keep the socks from actually touching your skin and causing irritation.

    Gel Packing

    Once you’re comfortable with sock packing, the next step is gel packing since it better resembles the feel of a penis compared to cloth. Fill a non-lubricated condom with hair gel and tie it off once it’s at a good shaft length. Use additional condoms to double or triple layer the packer, making it stiffer.* 

    Fill another condom about a quarter of the way with hair gel. Twist the condom and fold it in on itself to create a second layer. Tie it off – you’ve got your first testicle. Repeat these steps to create a second testicle.

    Get a pair of nylon pantyhose cutting off one of the legs. Drop the shaft into the toe of the leg and tie it inside. Drop the two testicles into the next part of the pantyhose, tying it firmly and cutting off any loose hose.

    Gel packers are surprisingly strong despite how cheap they are to create. To wear a gel packer, you’ll either need well-fitted briefs, boxer briefs, trucks, a jock strap, or a DIY harness. Compared to sock packers, gel packers are more likely to force you to acquire a male gait since there is physically something between your legs.

    *Only double or triple-layer packers. Never do this for sex.

    Types of Packers

    Gel and sock packers are the simplest forms of packing, but there are hundreds of designs available. Here are the most common types of packers and what makes them unique.

    Soft Packers

    Soft packers resemble flaccid penises and are best suited for casual everyday use. These packers are typically created from elastomer or silicone, designed solely for creating a bulge. Soft packers cannot be used for sex or urination.

    Ironically, soft packers were first mass-produced on the mainstream market as a gag bachelorette gift before being picked up by transmasculine consumers. Soft packers range between $15 to $50 based on material.

    • Elastomer packers cost significantly less, but are worse for your health since they often contain chemicals that leach into the body through skin contact.
    • Silicone packers are the community standard since they are body-safe and last for years. The silicone prevents skin irritation despite daily use.
    Most Popular Soft Packers
    Mr. Limpy / Mr. Softie$13.50
    Calexotics$15.00
    Archer & Pierre$35.00
    Karuno Fantasy$35.00

    Consider yourself crafty? You can create a basic soft packer with cloth or fabric that’s more advanced than sock and gel packers. Both elastomer and silicone packers are more realistic in shape and feel compared to cloth.

    If you’re allergic or sensitive to silicone, stuffed cloth packers are also available for sale on Etsy.

    Minimal Packers

    Some folks don’t like the phallic look that packers imitate. Minimal packers are abstract and aim to solely create a bulge without traditional phallic shapes. Depending on how abstract and artsy you’re going for, these can range from $3 to $30.

    Most Popular Minimal Packers
    MRIMIN$3.00
    Rodeoh$8.00
    Allbulgies$30.00

    Stand-to-Pee (STP) Packers

    STPs include any device that allows the user to urinate while standing up, such as at a urinal. Most STPs are STP packers, resembling the shape and color of cisgender penises for optimal stealth while in use. STP packers are the most basic type of prosthetic packer.

    If you’re interested in peeing while standing but don’t want to pack, there are also options for that! The most common method is the coffee can lid method or the medical spoon.

    Most Popular Non-Anatomical STPs
    pStyle$12.00
    GoGirl$13.00
    Fenis$20.00
    Freshette$25.00

    Stand-to-pee packers have a learning curve since they incorporate different bowls and seals. Always practice using your STP at home before trying it in public to avoid urine dripping down your jeans. It’s natural to be frustrated while learning the process, so be patient and follow the packer’s instructions and community input. 

    STP packers require either well-fitted underwear, packing pouches, or a harness to hold the device. Non-anatomical STP devices, on the other hand, usually aren’t and are instead held in one’s pocket or bag.

    Always clean your packer. Even if you only use a basic soft packer, it’ll naturally get gross and sweaty since it’s in your crotch. Dirty packers can cause UTIs, infections, and skin irritation.

    Most Popular STP Packers
    STP Fitz$38.00
    The Number One STP$50.00
    Sam the STP$50.00
    EZP$195.00

    Multifunctional Packers

    These packers are where most individuals get confused since some companies refer to them as pack ‘n plays, 2-in-1, 3-in-1, or even 4-in-1. Multifunctional packers are prosthetic devices that are designed for everyday flaccid packing plus one additional function.

    The most common multifunctional packer model is the pack ‘n play, which allows you to have penetrative sex with the same packing device that is usually flaccid for casual packing. These packers accomplish this through rods or a valve inflation system to stimulate an erection. Since these packers allow you to pack and have sex, they’re also considered 2-in-1 devices.

    Technically, STP packers are ALSO multifunctional 2-in-1s since the two functions are packing and peeing. Again, multifunctional packers are where most folks get confused, so make sure to always read the label on a packer for what its functions are.

    The 3-in-1 packer allows the user to casually pack, have penetrative sex, and urinate while standing up with the same device. 3-in-1s are hollow like regular STP packers, but are able to later become erect through a rod system designed for the model.

    A 4-in-1 model refers to a packer that packs, acts as an STP, allows for penetrative sex, and sexually stimulates the user during sex. The 4-in-1 label is a marketing gimmick – most 3-in-1s provide sexual stimulation to the user regardless of whether it’s labeled as a 3 or 4. Like the 3-in-1, the 4-in-1 is hollow for everyday packing and STP use. Some 4-in-1s, like the discontinued Freetom, have ridges in the silicone to provide stimulation, while others, like the Peecock, provide stimulation through the rod system.

    Rods, rods, rods. Are there any packers that allow you to pack, pee, and have sex without rods? Not yet, unfortunately. The Bionic was the closest device to solve this conundrum, but the project has been mostly discontinued.If you’re looking for a rod-less packer but don’t need to urinate standing up, the Peecock Inflatable uses the basic idea of the Bionic to incorporate air valves.

    Most Popular Multifunctional Packers
    Peecock$250.00
    Emisil$536.00
    ReelMagik$619.00
    Axolom$100.00

    I can’t afford a packer. What should I do?

    Compared to binders, there aren’t as many organizations that offer packer charities. On the other hand, packers can be safely created DIY-style, unlike chest binders.

    • The Queer Trans Project offers a set number of Build-a-Queer Kits throughout the year based on donations. The kits include a variety of items, like packers and binders, based on individual need.
    • The Thrive Fund is a general fund operated by Point of Pride for folks who don’t fall under their other scholarships for surgery, binders, HRT, shapewear, or electrolysis.

    Albeit not free, transgender groups are a great option to buy pre-owned items. Multifunctional packers are expensive! While buy/sell/trades exist on all social media platforms, make sure you’re using a reputable one like r/ftm.

    Where can I learn more about packing?

  • 10 Best Gifts for Nonbinary People This Holiday Season

    10 Best Gifts for Nonbinary People This Holiday Season

    With the holiday season rapidly approaching, it can be overwhelming to find meaningful gifts for the LGBTQIA+ people in your life. December is challenging for queer individuals due to higher chances of familial isolation compared to their straight cisgender counterparts. Here are ten gift recommendations for your nonbinary loved ones.

    Disclaimer: None of these items are sponsored! All listed products are based on my honest and personal opinion, so take them with a grain of salt.

    Affirmation Cards ($15)

    In my previous gift guides for transgender men and women, I suggested affirmation journals. These journals allow users to express their feelings in a meaningful, guided format to help digest tough emotions – so if you’re able to find a suitable affirmation journal, they’re still a quality choice.

    In contrast, affirmation cards replace the journaling aspect and replace it with mantras. Affirmation methods like mantras have been proven to be effective in focusing the mind and shifting individuals away from negative thoughts. These are a great DIY gift, so spend time writing affirmation statements like…

    • “I am worthy of receiving good things and accomplishing my goals in life.”
    • “I am allowed to feel upset, angry, and sad sometimes – it’s part of being human.”
    • “I deserve to be loved and to love others.”
    • “I am allowed to take up space, to have desires, and to have a voice.”
    • “I have done difficult things in the past, and I can do them again.”
    Crisis Text Line Affirmation Statements

    Pride Blanket ($50)

    Unfortunately, most pride merchandise is ugly – by nature, pride flags use sharp colors that make obnoxious shirts or the infamous rainbow suit. Pride apparel is also difficult to wear in public since it can feel dangerous to be openly queer in most spaces.

    Pride decor offers a happy medium between these extremes since these items are kept within the comfort of one’s home. Fleece and throw blankets are comforting, safe, and always useful. We’re always queer – including at home, so help bring a little bit more pride into their life.

    Enamel Pins ($10)

    Queer people love pins and buttons. These items have a long history in underground media that have influenced queer subculture. Enamel pins also double as cute accessory items for clothes and bags since they’re incredibly easy to pop on.

    Unsure what pin to get them? Pronoun enamel pins are the perfect place to start, especially if they experience misgendering regularly. Or just go for pins based on their favorite interests!

    Self-Care Kit ($35)

    If they’ve been stressed or overwhelmed lately, self-care kits are practical and thoughtful gifts to encourage them to spend time on themselves. Self-care kits are customizable, so they offer greater freedom in choosing what items will suit your loved one best. Most kits include comfort snacks, mindfulness exercises, and candles, but anything can be self-care!

    Skincare items are a great addition to transgender self-care kits. While not all transgender individuals undergo medical transition, hormone replacement therapy can be taxing on the skin during its early stages. When gifted alongside their favorite snacks, these items can make for a wonderful self-care day.

    Transgender Guide & Workbook ($25)

    There are thousands of self-help books available online, but a decent workbook can provide structured guidance regarding the medical, social, and legal aspects of transition. Not all transgender people want to transition, so make sure they’re interested in some aspects of the process before giving them a workbook.

    Trans Self-Care Workbook
    Accepting Gender
    Trans Bodies, Trans Selves

    While there is tons of information online, it can be exhausting to search through to find mediocre answers. Transgender-centered guides aim to answer questions they wouldn’t think to search Google about HRT, surgery, identity documents, legal rights, and more. Accepting Gender is a dense workbook created by nonbinary counselor Alex Stitt and grounded in acceptance and commitment therapy to guide readers in understanding their gender identity beyond the traditional male-female binary. Alternatively, Theo Lorenz’s Trans Self-Care Workbook is a combination coloring book and journal that uses cognitive behavioral therapy techniques and mindfulness. If they’re seeking medical or legal-based advice, check out Trans Bodies, Trans Selves instead.

    Transgender Memoir ($20)

    Although transgender identities have become more visible within the last decade, we’re still vastly underrepresented in the media. A good memoir connects its reader with the lived experiences of the writer, exploring their life’s challenges while offering inspiring advice and telling a captivating story.

    There are hundreds of transgender memoirs out there. The top three I recommend for nonbinary individuals include Gender Queer, None of the Above, and Nonbinary: Memoirs of Gender and Identity.

    • Maia Kobabe’s Gender Queer was the most banned book in 2021, and it’s still frequently challenged by US public schools due to its content. Banned books are always important to read, and Gender Queer is a cathartic (albeit controversial)  graphic novel.
    • Nonbinary: Memoirs of Gender and Identity is an anthology edited by Micah Rajunov and A. Scott Duane, covering the stories of over 30 writers to describe the true diversity of nonbinary experiences. There isn’t one way to be nonbinary, and this collection holds a variety of experiences that will connect.
    • Travis Alabanza published None of the Above: Reflections on Life Beyond the Binary in 2022. The limited amount of nonbinary identities currently represented by media currently still focuses on white perspectives to appeal to mainstream audiences. None of the Above tells the real experiences of a Black writer navigating an unkind world, needing a bit more intersectionality.
    Gender Queer
    None of the Above
    Nonbinary: Memoirs of Gender and Identity

    LGBTQIA+ Board Game ($20 – $50)

    Are they social and enjoy hanging out with friends? Indie board games have seen a rise in popularity over the past decade and offer a fun way to spend quality time beyond classics like Monopoly and Scrabble.

    Consider their personality and preferences. If they enjoy structured gameplay, go with a game like Gayopoly – it’s a LGBTQIA+ take on the classic game that is fairly easy to understand without reading hundreds of rules. On the other hand, go with a card-based game like Radical Queer Witches, Queeriosity, or Scurvy Buggers if they’re a social butterfly. At the end of the day, you want to make sure you get a game they’ll actually want to play with you.

    Hobby Starter Kit ($25)

    It’s always fun when starting a new hobby, even if you don’t stick with it. Sure, you could try to push them to continue their previous hobbies – but it’s just as easy to be the devil on their shoulder and inspire them into a new hyperinterest. 

    Hobby starter kits are inexpensive and save them the trouble of getting too deep into an interest before determining whether it’s for them. Here are a couple of guides filled with kit suggestions.

    Buzzfeed
    Daily Mom

    Small Business Gift Card (PICK YOUR OWN BUDGET!)

    Corporations dominate the vast majority of the consumer market (gotta love capitalism), so it’s hard to find someone who isn’t interested in supporting small businesses. Look up to find small queer-owned businesses near you and buy a gift card to invite them to make an interesting purchase.

    Not all areas have flourishing small businesses. Check out the Rolling Stones’ suggestions for LGBTQIA+-owned brands that serve and ship to anywhere in the United States.

    Charity Donation (PICK YOUR OWN BUDGET!)

    Maybe they’re not into physical gifts, and none of the above options stuck out. For a person who’s got it all, you can donate to a cause in their name – just make sure they’re keen on the idea.There are hundreds of nonprofits out there, so pick a charity best tailored to them. The most common ones include the ACLU, HRC, Lambda Legal, Trevor Project, A4TE, Trans Lifeline, and SAGE, but make sure to consider smaller organizations or local nonprofits.

  • 10 Unique Holiday Gifts for Transgender Women

    10 Unique Holiday Gifts for Transgender Women

    The holiday season thrives in the spirit of consumerism, so it can be infuriating to find a quality gift with a surplus of options available. December can be especially difficult for transgender individuals due to the high chance that our gender identities are “divisive” and a reason to be cast out from our biological families. Here are ten holiday gift recommendations for the transgender women in your life.

    Disclaimer: None of these items are sponsored! All listed products are based on my honest and personal opinion, so take them with a grain of salt.

    Makeup 101 ($10 – $75)

    Transition is expensive. Nearly every aspect is costly, although this reality comes as a surprise to many cisgender people. Makeup is no exception.

    There are multiple routes you could take. The easiest (albeit least personal) option would be to purchase a gift card for a local store. If you know her shade and preferences, you can take the initiative to buy a palette or set. Or, if you’re makeup-savvy, make the gift an experience by going to the store together.

    Learning to do makeup properly with the latest fashion trends can be difficult and overwhelming, especially for folks who don’t know anything about makeup. To fill this common gap that many transgender women experience, there are numerous courses available to teach the fundamentals. Both Ulta and Sephora offer individualized lessons at their stores.

    Ulta Beauty
    Sephora

    Personalized Jewelry ($30)

    Necklaces adorned with names or initials are common gifts for all women, including your transgender loved one. There is something magical about personalized jewelry; it affirms our fundamental identities and makes the bold statement, “I see you as you, and I accept you.”

    The most accessible place to order personalized jewelry is Etsy, which also allows you to support a small business. Just make sure to read user reviews before placing an order.

    Etsy

    Voice Training Course ($300)

    Some transgender women are content or even prideful of their natural speaking range. Other transgender women aren’t greatly bothered if they managed to avoid testosterone-based puberty. But there are just as many other women who are uncomfortable or dysphoric about their voices since it outs them as transgender – which presents an additional safety risk that prevents going stealth.

    If she falls into the latter range, you could gift the tuition for voice training. If the price tag is too steep but you know her voice bothers her, you could also create a good gift by spending time gathering relevant YouTube videos.

    Undead Voice
    Trans Voice Lessons

    Affirmation Journal ($20)

    Journaling can be for anyone, and it’s a great tool to deal with stress and self-esteem issues. By purchasing her an affirmation journal, you’re providing her with a new coping skill to affirm her identity as a woman. 

    Affirmation Journal

    Guide her into reframing negative thoughts into optimistic ones, and dig into core beliefs holding her back. Affirmation journals come in a wide range of styles and themes – get creative and buy one based on her personal interests.

    Fiction or Nonfiction Read ($30)

    Is she a bookworm? Compared to the general population, transgender people receive far less positive visibility in the media. Despite this reality, seeing ourselves represented can be an incredibly beautiful and heartwarming experience.

    For fiction fans, Nevada by Imogen Binnie follows Maria Griffiths’ road trip from NYC to the West Coast. Like most books written by transgender writers, Nevada has a small following compared to mainstream bestsellers – but the novel is well-received amongst LGBTQIA+ critics due to its impact on the transgender fiction scene when it was originally published in 2013.

    Trans Bodies, Trans Selves is a solid nonfiction recommendation, which was edited and published by Laura Erickson-Schroth in 2014. Technically, Trans Bodies, Trans Selves is for all gender identities – but it’s an incredibly undervalued piece of literature. Based on the 1973 book Our Bodies, Ourselves (written by the Boston Women’s Health Book Collective to highlight censored topics like birth control, sexuality, abortion, and menopause), it holds a wealth of information related to transgender health.

    Nevada
    Trans Bodies, Trans Selves

    Memoir ($15 – $30)

    Similar to the suggestions above, transgender people don’t frequently see themselves represented well. Memoirs are a special subcategory of nonfiction that connects us with the experiences of other transgender individuals who have gone through similar struggles.

    If you’re only going to read one transgender memoir ever, make it Whipping Girl. Julia Serano’s book is a wonderful blend of personal storytelling and critical theory that shook late third-wave feminist academia. The book explores the many ways transgender women are objectified, erased, excluded, and mystified both in general culture and within feminist circles.

    Jennifer Finney Boylan is a prolific writer with a dense bibliography. She transitioned at age 42 after having two children with her wife, Deirdre, and many of her memoirs tell her unique experience as a transgender parent. She’s Not There: A Life in Two Genders and Stuck in the Middle With You: A Memoir of Parenting in Three Genders are Boylan’s two most well-known works to start with.

    In my gift guide for transgender men, I mentioned Some Assembly Required by Arin Andrews. Rethinking Normal is its companion memoir, written by Katie Hill – Arin’s girlfriend, who wrote her own memoir about being a transgender teenage girl.

    Whipping Girl
    Stuck in the Middle
    Rethinking Normal

    Coordinated Activity (Pick Your Own Budget!)

    Sometimes, the best presents can’t be wrapped neatly under a tree. The gift of making memories can be just as good as anything you can put a bow on.

    If she’s open to the idea, book a spa day. However, I will caveat that you need to ensure the spa is transgender-friendly to ease her concerns. There is a history of issues regarding transgender people and spas that have barred us from basic services, since all occupations are capable of bias. There isn’t much more gender-affirming than lavishly getting a facial or manicure – but it might be a good idea to book the day for two and tag along to ease her anxieties.

    Of course, remember that she is an individual. If she’s into music, look up concerts in your closest city. If she likes art or history, plan some museums. Become a personalized tour guide for cool shops, interesting sites, drag shows, and nightlife.

    Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Kit ($25)

    Organizer kits are helpful devices to keep her on top of her medication regimen, which can be beneficial if she’s forgetful or travels frequently. Unlike transgender men, most transgender women use a pill-based HRT regimen, although that doesn’t mean an HRT organizer is out of the question.

    Get a fun pill organizer and help make the daily labor of pills more pleasant! Or, if you know she takes HRT via injection, get a sturdy case to help protect her medication.

    Digital Artwork Commission ($)

    By commissioning a digital artist, you’re supporting a small creator and giving her a deeply personal gift. Digital art is a unique way to affirm her identity – it allows her to envision herself the way she wants to be seen, even if that’s not the way she currently can present herself to the world. 

    Fiverr

    Charity Donation (Pick Your Own Budget!)

    Maybe she’s not into physical gifts, and none of the above options stuck out. For a woman who’s got it all, you can donate to a cause in her name – just make sure she’s keen on the idea.

    There are hundreds of nonprofits out there, so pick a charity best tailored to her. The most common ones include the ACLU, HRC, Lambda Legal, Trevor Project, A4TE, Trans Lifeline, and SAGE, but make sure to consider smaller organizations or local nonprofits.

  • 10 Wonderful Holiday Gifts for Transgender Men in 2025

    10 Wonderful Holiday Gifts for Transgender Men in 2025

    What’s the best way to make this season more enjoyable for the transgender people important to you? Here are ten gift ideas for the transgender men in your life.

    With the winter holidays approaching, it can be difficult to find meaningful gifts to give your loved ones. Transgender people can find December to be especially challenging because the holidays pose a reminder that we are outcasts from our biological families because of our gender identity.

    These gifts are more than just “guy” things, since he’s more than just a guy to you; they affirm his core identity and remind him of the value of chosen family.

    Disclaimer: None of these items are sponsored! All listed products are based on my honest and personal opinion, so take them with a grain of salt.

    Chest Binder ($45) or TransTape ($20)

    Most transgender men will bind their chest at some point to create a more masculine appearance and alleviate chest dysphoria. By getting him a chest binder, you’re also ensuring he binds safely with proper tools and sizing.

    GC2B came under fire when they altered their original binder design, but I still believe they make the best binder for price, comfort, and accessibility. The GC2B Classic 2.0 utilizes the design of their beloved binder with an added durability stitch to provide a daily binder that gives excellent compression. 

    TransTape is a medical-grade adhesive that allows guys to flatten their chests without wearing a traditional binder. The process is pretty unique, and it isn’t suited to all body types, but it’s an amazing alternative that most guys will want to try out at least once.

    GC2B Classic 2.0 Binder
    TransTape Starter Kit

    Want to know more about binding, safety precautions, and recommendations? Read this guide!

    Stand-to-Pee (STP) Device ($50)

    STPs allow transgender men (or anyone, really) to urinate standing up through a funnel that creates a seal over the urethra. They offer a great deal of convenience since most men’s restrooms emphasize urinals over stalls and provide gender euphoria. STPs also increase safety since standing to pee delivers stealth, compared to the assumed suspicion of sitting to urinate in public male spaces.

    TG Supply’s Lou is considered the best budget-friendly “all-in-one” STP for beginners. Despite sitting at a relatively low price point, the Lou is capable of daily packing, standing-to-pee functionality, and intimate “play” activities. And unlike some unwieldy STPs, the Lou takes little practice to master.

    TG Supply Lou

    Consider yourself quirky and crafty? Basic STPs are easy to make at home, although they won’t look very “penis-like” to be stealth at a urinal.

    Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Kit ($25)

    If he travels frequently, a portable HRT kit is a great gift to keep his medication secure. These tend to use hard casing to allow users to store testosterone vials, syringes, bandages, and alcohol wipes. The case protects the glass vials in case of being dropped and ensures everything stays organized – which can reduce the hassle when going through TSA.

    TG Supply HRT Kit

    Note: Always keep your prescription label with your medication, especially when traveling with testosterone. HRT kits also don’t insulate medication, so remember that testosterone needs to be kept at a certain temperature to remain usable.

    First-Time Shaving Kit ($30)

    Hormone replacement therapy means he’ll likely grow facial hair at some point – for most guys, facial hair starts to grow patchily between three to six months after starting testosterone patchily, before steadily filling out over several years based on genetics. 

    Guys have a complex relationship with these early “beards.” It’s the first facial hair we’re able to grow, so we’re hesitant to shave, similar to teenage boys – regardless of how bad it may look. The Dollar Shave Club and Harry’s both provide excellent starter shaving sets that ease him into shaving.

    The Dollar Shave Club
    Harry’s

    Affirmation Journal ($20)

    Journaling can be a great tool to deal with stress and self-esteem issues, which all men experience – including transgender men. By getting him an affirmation journal, you’re guiding him to reframe negative thoughts into optimistic ones and dig into core beliefs holding him back.

    Unlike other gift recommendations, I don’t have a particular product in mind. Any affirmation journal works, but he’ll probably appreciate one centered for masculine experiences (in other words, don’t get a sparkly pink one unless he likes pink and has a good sense of humor).

    Affirmation Journal

    If he’s not the most keen on journaling, you could make a challenge with a reward at the end through joint goal setting. It’s never too early to make New Year’s resolutions!

    Transgender Guide & Workbook ($20)

    For guys less-than-confident about their transition, workbooks provide structured guidance regarding medical, social, and legal transition. These books are both self-help and data-packed to answer questions he wouldn’t think to ask.

    The Queer and Transgender Resilience Workbook by Anneliese A. Singh and Sage Buch’s The Transmasculine Guide to Physical Transition Workbook: For Trans, Nonbinary, and Other Masculine Folks are tied for this spot. Both books have interactive exercises to inspire readers to delve deeper into their identities and gender affirmation journeys.

    The Queer and Transgender Resilience Workbook
    The Transmasculine Guide to Physical Transition Workbook

    Memoir ($20)

    There’s something magical about reading a good memoir. As transgender men, we lack quality media that authentically represent our gender identity and manage to still tell a captivating story. Unlike other nonfiction, good memoirs weave advice while exploring the author’s life to inspire the reader.

    There are hundreds of transgender memoirs out there, but the three I recommend most are Becoming a Visible Man, Balls, and Some Assembly Required since they’re great starting points – even for folks not into reading nonfiction.

    Becoming a Visible Man was published by Jamison Green in 2004, considered a classic amongst transgender memoirs as Jamison relates his medical transition at the age of 40. Most assume folks have to transition as soon as possible, usually around the age of 18, but Jamison represents an experience just as common, even if rarely shown.

    Chris Edwards wrote Balls: It Takes Some to Get Some in 2016 to chronicle his experience seeking gender affirmation surgery. There’s a stark lack of information regarding female-to-male bottom surgery, and Balls has been praised for humanizing the journey.

    Some Assembly Required: The Not-So-Secret Life of a Transgender Teen was the first transmasculine memoir I ever read, so I’m admittedly attached to it. Like the other two books, it’s humorous but instead focuses on Arin Andrews’ time in high school as a transgender young person. If the transgender man in your life has identified as trans since he was a teenager, he’ll enjoy the read.

    Becoming a Visible Man
    Some Assembly Required
    Balls: It Takes Some to Get Some

    Pride Attire ($20)

    Pride flags are cool. The only problem with pride flags is that most folks get the cheapest one available. Even if his current flag was purchased at a pride festival or queer nonprofit, there is a high likelihood that the quality will be terrible and that it was produced in sweatshops overseas. In my previous work at a queer nonprofit, they purchased flags in bulk from Temu to sell at full price – so it’s more likely than you think.

    My recommendation is getting a flag through a small business, like Flags for Good. Their flags are made ethically for the same price you’ll see at major pride festivals. They also design flags, so you can give him something unique – like a pride flag catered to his home state or city.

    Flags for Good

    Coordinated Activity (Pick Your Own Budget!)

    Gifts don’t have to be physically wrapped and put under a tree to be enjoyed. If he’s more into making memories, plan something to do together based on his interests. Make a day (or weekend) trip to your nearest city, look up cool shops, drag shows, museums, concerts, and support meetings. 

    Even in conservative states, cities remain liberal hubs with plenty of attractions and are pretty open-minded. So get to planning!

    Charity Donation (Pick Your Own Budget!)

    Maybe he’s not into physical gifts, and none of the above options stuck out. For a guy who’s got it all, you can donate to a cause in his name – just make sure he’s keen on the idea.

    There are hundreds of nonprofits out there, so pick a charity best tailored to him. The most common ones include the ACLU, HRC, Lambda Legal, Trevor Project, A4TE, Trans Lifeline, and SAGE, but make sure to consider smaller organizations or local nonprofits.