Each step can be a step forward.

Expect some sidesteps and some backtracking.

But when it is right for you, moving ahead, even in small steps, is rewarding.

Quote from: Allie Jayne on April 19, 2025, 07:49:48 AMAlana, Dysphoria is the stress from incongruent gender. Anything which reinforces your assigned sex may increase your incongruence and your dysphoria. Anything you can do to affirm your identified gender will reduce dysphoria. It doesn't have to be dressing or HRT, but can be small things like taking a female avatar online or simply imagining yourself in the role you identify with. Making a list of the things you need to do to transition can be very affirming. Try a number of things to see which has the most impact.

Good Luck,

Allie

I have my navel pierced. I just changed the jewelry in it to one that says "Alana" on it. I feel a bit of euphoria already.

Quote from: Allie Jayne on April 19, 2025, 07:49:48 AMAlana, Dysphoria is the stress from incongruent gender. Anything which reinforces your assigned sex may increase your incongruence and your dysphoria. Anything you can do to affirm your identified gender will reduce dysphoria. It doesn't have to be dressing or HRT, but can be small things like taking a female avatar online or simply imagining yourself in the role you identify with. Making a list of the things you need to do to transition can be very affirming. Try a number of things to see which has the most impact.

Good Luck,

Allie

This is wonderful advice. Little things all add up. For someone who can't transition, they are actual lifelines.

If I can suggest something which has helped me for a long, long time. Learn meditation. Learn how to put yourself in touch with yourself. Altered states of consciousness. I posted a guided meditation a long time ago to help people. I have the link in my signature. Getting in touch with the person inside can mitigate a lot of what the outside wants to make you feel.

Quote from: Alana1990 on April 19, 2025, 02:14:12 PMI have my navel pierced. I just changed the jewelry in it to one that says "Alana" on it. I feel a bit of euphoria already.

That's a very good sign Alana. Sometimes you need to push a little bit ... cross a comfort zone boundary just a little at first. Once you do you start to feel more comfortable in your own skin. I have found that crossing boundaries often takes more than one step, so take your time but keep exploring. As I have said before, when the things you do make you smile you're on the right track. Best wishes sweetie!

Glad to hear the good news, Alana. Good luck and on the telehealth call. 
  Unfortunately there is no current treatment for GD other than transitioning. Of course, to what extent one transitions is entirely up to the individuals needs.
  I look forward to news on your continuing journey.
Hugs Gina

Quote from: Lilis on April 19, 2025, 12:13:26 PMThat's a nice sign, Alana, sounds like things are moving forward! 👍


~Lilis 💗

I was able to get a telehealth appointment. It's in a few weeks. I just scheduled it. I'm going to call and double check to make sure I made the correct appointment. I don't want to have my heart broken like I did last time.

Quote from: Alana1990 on April 21, 2025, 10:03:17 PMI was able to get a telehealth appointment. It's in a few weeks.

That's awesome that you were able to book a telehealth appointment, Alana!

It sounds like you've got a little time to prepare, which is great no need to rush.

You might want to gather any relevant medical records, like past evaluations, blood work, or therapy notes related to gender dysphoria.

Some providers may ask for a therapist's letter or proof of counseling, depending on your state's informed consent model.

It can also help to jot down any questions or concerns you want to bring up... like what to expect from HRT, how it will be monitored, or options for fertility preservation if you're thinking about kids down the road.

If you're going through insurance, definitely reach out to them and make sure everything is set up on their end.

I've found that chatting through the member portal works best for me, but whatever method works for you is totally fine.

Keep us posted, it's totally normal to feel nervous.

You've got this!


~ Lilis 🫂💗

Quote from: Alana1990 on April 21, 2025, 10:03:17 PMI was able to get a telehealth appointment. It's in a few weeks. I just scheduled it. I'm going to call and double check to make sure I made the correct appointment. I don't want to have my heart broken like I did last time.

This is wonderful news Alana. Lillis offered some amazing advice also. I am so happy for you. I hope all goes good for you. Many 🤗. Anneliese

Quote from: Annaliese on April 22, 2025, 06:08:29 AMThis is wonderful  news Alana. Lillis offered some amazing advice also. I am so happy for you. I hope all goes good for you. Many 🤗. Anneliese

Thank you! I just got off the phone with the doctors office. Everything is correct, and I'm good to go. I'm beyond excited. 

Quote from: Alana1990 on April 22, 2025, 06:02:49 PMThank you! I just got off the phone with the doctors office. Everything is correct, and I'm good to go. I'm beyond excited. 

This is great news. I'm so happy for you. I know that feeling, it's so euphoric isn't it? You're on your way. Keep up the positive ✨️ momentum.  🤗 Annaliese.

@Alana1990    cc: @Annaliese  @Lilis

Dear Alana:
Yes indeed  "beyond exited"  is exactly the good feeling to have...
... congratulations are in order for you.

Please keep me and the rest of your avid followers and readers updated as things progress.

We are all rooting for your success and happiness as you continue on in your journey.

HUGS and my best and warmest wishes go out to you. ❤️❤️❤️
Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Quote from: Alana1990 on April 22, 2025, 06:02:49 PMThank you! I just got off the phone with the doctors office. Everything is correct, and I'm good to go. I'm beyond excited. 

Quote from: Alana1990 on April 21, 2025, 10:03:17 PMI was able to get a telehealth appointment. It's in a few weeks. I just scheduled it. I'm going to call and double check to make sure I made the correct appointment. I don't want to have my heart broken like I did last time.

That is very nice to hear Alana!

Chrissy

Alana,

I remember my first estradiol pill.  I looked at it with overwhelming happiness, and even picking them up to take was very affirming. 

Chrissy

Alana,

With luck, everything will work out and the time waiting for your appointment will go by quickly.


Chrissy

Quote from: Annaliese on April 22, 2025, 06:09:40 PMThis is great news. I'm so happy for you. I know that feeling, it's so euphoric isn't it? You're on your way. Keep up the positive ✨️ momentum.  🤗 Annaliese.

It is. I was walking around work this afternoon buzzing with happiness. It's been a long time since I felt this excited 

@Alana1990
Dear Alana:
All of us on the Forum are also  "buzzing with happiness"  along with you !!
HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Quote from: Alana1990 on April 22, 2025, 11:24:35 PMIt is. I was walking around work this afternoon buzzing with happiness. It's been a long time since I felt this excited 

Alana,

Just remember that curves will not be sprouting on day 1, or 2.  Wait at least three days!  LOL

Good things take time.  Everyone is different. 

The anticipation of this starting though could be quite exciting!


Chrissy