By way of introduction

[galdr]

I'm not sure how typical or atypical my situation is but today I felt like I couldn't go any longer without expressing myself in some way. I'm 45. I came out as trans to my wife last August. In the months leading up to that moment, I realized that I had never felt masculine in any way and that, if I had any choice, androgynous or feminine was my overwhelming preference. Anything but masculine.

My wife was incredibly supportive and has been ever since. With her support and encouragement, I've been shifting my daily/work wardrobe to be more feminine. We've shared this with a few of our mutual friends who have been nothing but supportive. I'm even (eek!) planning to wear a dress to a wedding party for a lesbian couple we both deeply care about.

I haven't started HRT. I would like to. My wife worries about the future of our sex life were I to start. Perhaps this is enough said at this point.

[Northern Star Girl]

I'm not sure how typical or atypical my situation is but today I felt like I couldn't go any longer without expressing myself in some way. I'm 45. I came out as trans to my wife last August. In the months leading up to that moment, I realized that I had never felt masculine in any way and that, if I had any choice, androgynous or feminine was my overwhelming preference. Anything but masculine.

My wife was incredibly supportive and has been ever since. With her support and encouragement, I've been shifting my daily/work wardrobe to be more feminine. We've shared this with a few of our mutual friends who have been nothing but supportive. I'm even (eek!) planning to wear a dress to a wedding party for a lesbian couple we both deeply care about.

I haven't started HRT. I would like to. My wife worries about the future of our sex life were I to start. Perhaps this is enough said at this point.

@galdr
Dear Galdr:
    I am happy to see your first posting and that you signed up as a member of Susan's Place. 

    As you post here on the forums you will be able to exchange thoughts and comments with others that are experiencing many of the same things.

    This is the right place for you to be to find out what others may have to say that may have been in your circumstances and with your questions and concerns.
    There are a lot of members here that will be able to identify with your situation as you continue to feel free to share it.

    I also want to warmly WELCOME you to Susan's Place. 
You will find this a safe and friendly place to share with others and to read about others similar trials, tribulations, and successes.

    As you are certainly aware you can share with others and involve yourself with some give and take with other like-minded members.  When frustrated or if you have successes you can share it here if you wish and receive support from others and offer support to others. ....
     ***There is a very good chance that you might find that you will make some new like-minded friends here. 

    Please come in and continue to be involved at your own pace.
   
    There is information and important LINKS that I have included below.   You will find information about the site that will help you navigate around and best utilize the features here.   
Please look closely at the LINKS in RED, answers are there to many questions that new members ask.

Again, Welcome to Susan's Place.
Danielle

Here are some links to the site rules and stuff that all new members should be familiar with:
 

Things that you should read

Site Terms of Service & Rules to Live By	Standard Terms & Definitions	Post Ranks (including when you can upload an avatar)	Cautionary Note
Reputation rules	News posting & quoting guidelines	Photo, avatars, & signature images policy	Membership Agreement

[V M]

Hi Galdr 

Welcome to Susan's Place    Glad to have you here, join on in the fun

Hugs

V M

[debrahelen]

I'm not sure how typical or atypical my situation is but today I felt like I couldn't go any longer without expressing myself in some way. I'm 45. I came out as trans to my wife last August. In the months leading up to that moment, I realized that I had never felt masculine in any way and that, if I had any choice, androgynous or feminine was my overwhelming preference. Anything but masculine.

My wife was incredibly supportive and has been ever since. With her support and encouragement, I've been shifting my daily/work wardrobe to be more feminine. We've shared this with a few of our mutual friends who have been nothing but supportive. I'm even (eek!) planning to wear a dress to a wedding party for a lesbian couple we both deeply care about.

I haven't started HRT. I would like to. My wife worries about the future of our sex life were I to start. Perhaps this is enough said at this point.

Welcome - I think your situation is quite similar to what many of us have gone through.  You are incredibly lucky to have a supportive spouse as this will be important as you take the next steps in becoming your true self. 

[IzzyM]

Hiya,

Susan's Place is a very supporting community.

Izzy

[Maid Marion]

Welcome Galdr!

Yes, a common side effect of HRT is sexual disfunction. 
But, for some it is necessary to avoid dysphoria, which may be roughly characterized as testosterone poisoning.

Discussing your situation with a therapist may be helpful in deciding exactly what you wish to achieve by transitioning. Once you know what you want, then you may be able to find a solution with minimal adverse side effects.  Where do you want to be long term, years after completing the transition.  You are young enough that this is an important question.

There are some here, including myself, that have never needed HRT.
But, everyone's situation is different, so you really need to talk about what will work for you.

Marion