Are you considering going through an FTM transition while in college? Going through an FTM transition often has unique challenges at any stage in life. When you're in college, though, you'll have to balance transitioning into a male body with schooling and the social situations that come along with robust campus life. Yet, transitioning during college doesn't have to be a stressful experience!
What Does Transitioning Mean?
Before we get started, let's define our terms. What is FTM, and why is it an important step to take?
💡 FTM Definition
FTM stands for "female-to-male." Transgender people use it as a shorthand to describe themselves or talk about the experience of going from a biologically female body to a male body. This is also referred to as "transitioning."
When you undergo an FTM transition, you'll take testosterone. There are several different ways to take testosterone:
💉 Injections
Regular testosterone injections administered by yourself or a healthcare provider.
🩹 Patches
Transdermal patches applied to the skin for gradual hormone release.
💊 Pills
Oral testosterone taken as prescribed by your doctor.
🧴 Gel
Rub-in gel applied daily to the skin for absorption.
💬 Talk to Your Doctor
If you're wondering which method will work best for you, speak to your doctor. They can help determine the best approach based on your individual needs and health.
Getting Ready for a Transition
Some of the changes trans people experience when they start to take testosterone are permanent. Transitioning will cause you to go through male puberty—for instance, voices deepen, which isn't reversible.
⚠️ Important to Know
Before you start your FTM transition, you should make sure you're ready for the physical changes that come with puberty. If you're not, it's perfectly fine to call yourself transgender without going through the transition.
People often find their mental health improving once they transition. Transitioning can ease gender dysphoria and help you feel more at home in your body. So, if you feel ready to start the journey, college can be a great time to start.
✓ Before You Start
Talk to a doctor or therapist about the process
Learn about the permanent and temporary changes you'll experience
Make sure you know how to administer testosterone properly
Build a support network of friends, family, or professionals
Consider Whether You Want Surgery
There are a few types of surgery available to people who go through an FTM transition. Surgery is a personal choice and not required for transition.
👕 Top Surgery
During top surgery, a surgeon will remove the breast tissue that develops during female puberty. This leaves you with a flat chest. You should expect some bruising and scarring under your pectoral area, which usually fades over time.
🩺 Phalloplasty
This procedure creates fully-functioning male genitalia using surgery. There are several types of phalloplasty available. Your surgeon will review your health and body goals to give recommendations.
📅 Scheduling Tips for College Students
You shouldn't schedule your surgery during a busy time in your schedule! Some college students prefer to do their surgery during a break. If you don't want to wait for a break, work with your professors to see how you can keep up your academic performance. Refrain from participating in strenuous activity, including school sports, until you're recovered.
Find a Good Support Community
College can serve as a great space for transgender people because it provides you with lots of potential friends. Choosing your friends is very important during a transition.
💜 Building Your Support Network
Find people who are supportive of transgender people
See if your college has an LGBTQ+ club or chapter
Connect with your campus's diversity office for resources
Meet other trans people who can give you advice
As you transition, keep in mind that people will have reactions to your new appearance and life. Some of these reactions will be positive and supportive, but some might not be.
🗣️ Coming Out
If you're not out to anyone yet, think about the people in your life and decide who you want to tell. Remember that you don't have to come out to anyone if you're not ready!
🧠 Mental Health
Prioritize your mental health during this time. Most US colleges have free mental health services on campus. Ask for a trans-affirming therapist.
What If Your School Isn't Trans-Affirming?
Unfortunately, some private higher education institutions aren't affirming of trans people. This is often true for conservative institutions, especially if they're religious.
🚨 If You're at a Non-Affirming School
If possible, you should consider transferring out of these schools. Yet, this isn't an option for many transgender students for a variety of reasons.
Should you decide to stay at your school, the first thing you'll want to do is figure out the school's policies. Knowing this will help you figure out how to best be yourself while staying safe and getting your degree.
📋 Steps to Take
Research your school's policies on transgender students
Find nearby LGBTQ+ associations or groups for support
Document everything if you experience discrimination
Keep anything from administration in writing
⚖️ Know Your Legal Rights (USA)
Public colleges and universities cannot discriminate against transgender people
You have the legal right to safety, regardless of your school
Harassment is a violation of your rights
Contact a lawyer or your school's Title IX office if discriminated against
Ready to Get Started with Your FTM Transition?
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