I was wondering if anyone could help me figure out what i should expect with my body shape and the effects the hormones will have on it. I'm currently just under 6 foot and 195 pounds. I have a fairly athletic build with alot of my mass in my lower body such as thighs, butt, and calves. People tell me often how my butt is bigger than some girls. I know that fat goes to other parts of the body with hormones but I'm just not sure where it goes. I was also wondering if your age has anything to do with how your body will react to them, I'm 18 BTW.

It anyone has any information that could help me that would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

-Arianna

Dear Ariana:

HRT will shift fat, cause a lessening of muscle mass, soften facial features, soften hair, improve skin texture, and generally rewire your mind to that of a women.  This takes 2-5 years and can be impacted if you have SRS early on (year 1 or 2), though this post-op impact is more subtle and yet often deeper.

Secondary female characteristics will definitely be evident within 3 months but things will seem slow, even if you are a fast tract person due to your particular body chemistry.  Consider resisting breast augmentation for at least 2 and better 4 years.  I didn't fully mature until year 6 or 7 and am a large B or small C, depending how I feel about that day-to-day   .  I am quite satisfied with my breasts.  Would/am considering FFS but I'm not sure.

Good luck and please stay in touch . . .

Rachel

Hey Rachel, thanks for the info. Is it possible that my effects could be quicker due to my younger age or is it the same for most woman no matter the age. Also I will definitely make sure to stay in touch.

Hugs
-Arianna

It all depends on your genes.

Is there any way to see how my genes can influence my transition.

Hi Again:

The earlier you start the less developed you male characteristics are up until the late 20's, sometimes longer, which gives HRT a less masculine form to do its magic on.

I'm not sure there's a lot to know medically unless there is a specific condition you maybe concerned/interested in; however, your hereditary background is important e.g. sisters, cousins, mother, etc. and to a lesser extent your on father's side as well.

Take care and happy holidays,

Rachel

Hey Rachel:

So does this mean if I were to start HRT within the next couple of years, 18 right now, I would not look as masculine compared to if I was in my late 20's? If I'm not interpreting this right please tell me as I would really like to know before I make my decisions.

-Arianna

The secondary male characteristics aren't fully developed until late 20s or 30s.  So, if you start at 18 there's less male specific characteristics, which is to say in artsy terms that the canvas has yet to be completely filled in as a male.

It's not strictly age related, and the answer to your question isn't a simple "if this then that."  But in general, starting while in your teens will typically result in more natural and less ambiguous characteristics when presenting as female.

I'm not trying to weasel my words; I'm trying to answer broadly and generally enough that the answer is useful but not specifically predictive.  However, to be clear starting earlier in life is better, especially in ones teen years.

Whatever your circumstances, if you are sure you are a trans-woman, then get the letter from a therapist and start HRT.  This assumes you are willing/can to accept the life impacts of such a decision in both your private and public life.

Take good care,

Rachel

Every day on T is lost!