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Life issues and resources
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I'm a man who wants to take birth control pills -What do I need to know?
Originally Published: September 17, 1999
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Hi Alice, I am twenty-nine-year-old male. I also am a crossdresser. The question I want to ask is this: I have been wanting to get on birth control pills. I have been wanting this since I was fourteen. I would like to know the danger of this before I see a doctor. I am not bothered about the female hormones. If I can, what are the things I need to ask, and what doctor do I see for getting birth control pills? I would feel more feminine and better about myself if I was on the pill. Thank you for your time. Maryan
Dear Maryan, You're raising several issues related to gender that are both fascinating and complicated. Taking birth control pills clearly is important to you. Doing so has many medical implications, and Alice suggests another step before going to a health care provider. First consult with someone expert in gender issues since related information and support are vital. A GLBT (gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender) center that deals with transgender issues may be able to help you find a professional and/or support group in this field. Your conversations with this person or group about birth control pills and what they can offer you will be only part of the overall discussion, which could also cover the following questions: Are you interested in transitioning from male-to-female? Or, are you only interested in the idea of taking medication most often used by women? How else would you like to express your feminine/masculine sides? How do you feel about yourself and your body? Do you have friends with whom you share this side of yourself? To locate a center, support group, or expert near you, contact:
After working with someone familiar with transgender issues, your next move can be a visit to a health care provider that s/he recommends or has worked with before. The provider will ask about your medical history. Then you can discuss with her or him various options available to you, including the Pill, and the outcomes, possible risks, and benefits associated with them.
Good luck,
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