There is a big difference in having an "open narrative" versus maintaining privacy of such when it comes to intimate relationships post-op. Regardless of whether they're with men or women.
Yes, with a closed narrative, you'll be a "normal" woman. Let that sink in a bit -- you'll be just another woman. Just a woman. A woman. And especially in a heterosexual relationship, that is something powerful and amazing and... healing. At least it was for me, and for many other women I know who live their lives as such.
Yeah, I was nervous the first few times. But I got over it. I got into a long-term relationship, and it was wonderful, for many years (until I tired of his constant pot smoking and intellectual dullness, but that's just another normal issue for another time). And I didn't use dating sites, I just went out into the world and did things that interested me, various social groups like SF fan clubs and book clubs, live music, some charity work, vacations, and so on. It's in these places I met the men I ended up going to bed with, and so they were very positive and affirming experiences.
I think what it comes down to, in terms of being happy, is what your personal truth is. If you've done all this because deep down inside you are female, it behooves you to give a closed narrative a try. (I loathe the term "stealth" as it implies hiding something; if your truth is that you're a woman, an open narrative will hide that truth.) Give it a couple years, see what it's like. It isn't for everyone, but it is for a lot of us.
