When I'm asked, it's usually from someone that I've known for quite some time. And they aren't asking to be mean. They usually just want to know what it's like. I tell them that I have always felt this way, and that the life that I have been living all of these years has been a lie to protect myself and to fit in. But now I can't do it anymore, I need to be whole. I explain to them that I AM a woman, I always have been, but was just born with the wrong equipment. A problem that I am trying to correct. For the most part once I tell them, a light bulb goes off in their head, and a lot of things form my life make more sense to them. Not in a bad way of course, just I never quite fit in, and was always one of the girls whether I was or not.
As for someone on the street, if they were to ask me whether I was a boy or a girl. I would just reply, "Can't you tell?" smile and walk away. A few months ago I'd be worried, but now, MEH, it's their problem not mine.