[Adrian]

Status update:
I have taken out a hosting package with our current provider but based in Sydney not the USA.

The porting process has started.

At this time the only change is that it is no longer possible to edit or load new pictures to your gallery or avitar.
This will allow the gigabyte of members portraits to be transferred between the servers.

[Adrian]

This discussion has gone somewhat off the original topic.
If you want me to split it send me an email – otherwise please remember the topic is in “fun stuff” and is about a specific article in the Age/SMH.
:OH

[Adrian]

From the admin forum
Happy Birthday Forums!

As I passed through the site admin pages I noticed that this forum was started on 21 Mar 2004 08:54 pm.

That means it is now 5 years old! :bounce:

Before the forum was started we used a yahoo group –
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/tranny/
from 1999 to 2004 – another 5 years!

Back in 2004 we would struggle to get 25 postings a month.
Which was lucky because I had to copy across all the useful information by hand across into the “new” forum.

Now the number of postings each is over 225 – with a record one month of 299!

In fact, even with moderators culling old postings, we have collected about 7300 articles – a lot of valuable reading for new members! Though you would need quite a bit of spare time to get through it all!

Who knows what the next 5 years will bring!
Keep up the good work girls!

[Adrian]

Try typing Bra 20A into Google!!!

The size seems to exist!
http://cgi.ebay.com.au/20A-NEW-PRETTY-Black-LACE-WIREFREE-BRA-Pad-Straps-g8_W0QQitemZ350115525586QQcmdZViewItemQQptZAU_Womens_Clothing_2?hash=item350115525586&_trksid=p4634.c0.m14.l1262

Remember that for every increase in chest size the cup volume decreases a unit..
So a 20A is the same volume cup as an 18B.

[Adrian]

Quote:

what has this got to do with transgender?

Define for me the exact boundaries of what is transgender and I’ll tell you.
Is a person who starts out wearing ladies underwear in private transgender?
What if they graduate to crossdressing in public for a year or two, and then go on HRT and then have sexual reassignment surgery….are they transgender?

I take a very broad view that anyone who is showing any symptom of not being comfortable with their gender of birth, in any way, may perhaps be transgender.
So I go on record as saying that I spot a bit of a transgender flavour in Richard’s article. And its not the first time I’ve got that vibe reading his articles either. That’s why I posted it.

But if someone wants to debate my broad definitions they should start a new thread as this one should just be about Richard Glover’s article

[Adrian]

As you wrote in the parent forum
[url]http://forum.tgr.net.au/cms/forum/FXXXXXXXX/2464-464
[/url]
“I put out a post recently in other forums about if HRT can change your sexual orientation. I had many responses and people seemed to think that HRT could act as a catalyst to underlying feelings and therefore, re-balance the equasion somewhat. “

As a result the responses in that thread are already covering this topic.
And as it refers to both HRT and sexuality it is probably best placed in the parent forum.

Perhaps the earlier post didn’t have a good title if you wanted to discuss the effect of HRT on sexuality.

I’ve locked this thread and moved it out of the way.

[Adrian]

Quote:

The studies described below underscore the value of maintaining youthful free testosterone levels:

Whilst I don’t claim to have the answers – I do advise some caution in interpreting the outcomes of medical trials. I have worked in the medical industry for many years and most trials you read in published papers are interesting but far from conclusive. The claim that studies show benefit in maintaining normal testosterone is probably not founded.

For instance:
• Depression. The relationship between depression and testosterone was assessed in 856 men between the ages of 50 and 89. The study results showed depression was significantly correlated with lower levels of bioavailable (free) testosterone levels………

Was low testosterone the source of the depression – or is it just a side effect of the dissorder causing depression? A big difference – and the researchers don’t know – they just suggest testosterone might help.

• Type II diabetes. A recent study …found a link between type II diabetes and decreased testosterone levels in men.

Diabetes is a popular topic for research because there is so much of it about. Studies show that there is a strong link between people with diabetes and sleep apnea.
Does this mean sleep apnea causes diabetes?
Probably no more likely than testosterone causes diabetes.
You may make the disease better by treating the secondary syptoms – but that doesn’t mean if you have low testosterone you are more likely to get diabetes. Lots more trials have to be done before that conclusion can be drawn.

And so on….

Please be cautious before assuming that the observation of low testosterone in patients with some disease is the same as finding that low testosterone causes the disease.

(And look in the small print to try and find out who was sponsoring the clinical trial – that is often quite interesting!)

[Adrian]

On a similar topic:

From: Pink news (http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-11144.html)

“Cross-dressing” man is latest victim of Bahrain’s morality purge

By Tony Grew • February 13, 2009 – 13:12

A driving instructor has been jailed for one month in Bahrain for wearing women’s clothing in public.

A court was told the 39-year-old was wearing a abaya, a long black robe that covers the whole body, and scarf.

He was reportedly also carrying a purse as he walked through Al Haddad Market.

He was arrested after police stopped him.

A press report alleges he was engaged in prostitution, which the man denied.

Gulf Daily News reports that the man told police after his arrest:

“I don’t have a particular reason for dressing like a woman and walking on the streets, but after I dropped my wife at her father’s house, I purchased the clothes and wore them.”

Bahrain is known as one of the more tolerant Muslim nations in the Middle East, and has recently undergone a period of political liberalisation.

However, homosexuality remains a crime, and the government has periodically deported expatriates because of their sexual orientation.

As part of a recent panic about homosexuality, gay sites such as gaydar.com were blocked by the government.

A session of Parliament in the Gulf state began last October with calls for a crackdown on gays.

Al Menbar MP Shaikh Mohammed Khalid Mohammed said:

“We have homosexual rates on the rise, with such people working in flower shops, massage parlours or barber’s salons.

“Sluts walk around residential neighbourhoods untouched.”

In April Parliament demanded that the Interior Ministry stop granting any residence permits to foreign homosexuals.

Bahrain only held its first elections in 2002, and since then politicians have mainly addressed themselves to “moral” issues such as banning female mannequins from shop windows and tackling the widespread problem of “sorcery.”

In 2002 the government deported 2,000 gay Filipino workers for homosexual activity and prostitution.

[Adrian]

Point taken – I was only reporting the news coverage and not trying to start a debate. If you look at the blog on the cairns web site it is not exactly supportive.

Thread locked to avoid it becoming a topic of debate here as well.

[Adrian]

Moved in response to policy
http://forum.tgr.net.au/cms/forum/FXXXXXXXX/2423-423

The only likely outcome of this thread is to identify differences in where people think they are going at this moment on their journey.
The topic provides no basis as to why the question is being asked – nor does it provide any opinion/views to launch the debate.

Thread locked

[Adrian]

Quote:

HI all

I was wondering if any one can tell me if taking blackmoores Phytolife once a day photoestrogen will give me breast growth

Kate

Not much chance on their own. In my case they just put on about 16 lb and so with more general flab there was more fat to push up as cleavage.

until proven (and I mean proven) you can assume nothing herbal will generate sustained growth of breast tissue (as opposed to fat) – and anything that is genuinely hormonal will generate growth but over long periods (6 months +) and not over weeks.

As always I’m happy to be proved wrong – but no one has yet stepped up to the mark with evidence to the contrary,

[Adrian]

I thought Dubai would be the easiest place to cross dress in public.
With a black burqua covering you from head to toe you need not worry about poor makeup technique! Doesn’t sound much fun I know – but being a woman in a Muslim country is not such a good deal either.

[Adrian]

Moderator

Quote:

WARNING
TrannyRadio is not a medical forum and any comments you may read in TR forums are only the opinions of the member posting. You should not assume that a posting on TR implies any verification or independent review and whilst the advice is honestly offered it is made without knowledge of your particular medical conditions. You should always seek professional medical advice before taking any action that might affect your health.

TransgenderCare has a good web site on hormones.
http://www.transgendercare.com/medical/resources/tmf_program/default.asp

I have copied the section on specific medications below. Information provided and accessed through TransGenderCare.com is presented in a summary form and should not be used as a substitute for a consultation or visit with a physician, psychologist, electrologist or other health care provider.

A Look at Medications

Forms of Feminizing Hormone Therapy

The general process of supplementing a woman’s natural hormones is often called hormone replacement therapy or HRT. The oldest form of supplemental hormones is estrogen. When estrogen is taken alone (that is, not mixed with a progestin), it is called unopposed estrogen (also, estrogen replacement therapy or ERT). When estrogen is taken in combination with progestins, the process is called combined hormone therapy.

For transgender women, the standard HRT regimen is inadequate. The latest and most effective therapies include more potent estrogens and anti-androgens. This combination of medications not only offers greater feminization, but also provides a greater reduction of the masculinizing effects from past virilization. Each regimen and form of administration not only has its own specific benefits, but also carries with it a variety of differing risks.

Over the years, we have used many different feminizing and de-masculinizing drugs with our patients in order to maximize the positive benefits while reducing any negative side effects. The feedback from these ongoing treatment methods coupled with consultations with other professionals, and discussions with patients who have experienced other regimens have allowed us to compile a sizeable amount of data concerning the administration of hormonal therapies.

The following is a brief synopsis of medications that are used in feminizing hormone programs.

Estrogen

ESTROGENS – ORAL USE

Estradiol (Estrace)

17-Beta Estradiol provides the most potent estrogen available, and is most commonly taken by mouth. It may also be administered by way of a skin patch or injected into muscle, whereby the drug travels expeditiously through the bloodstream to the areas it affects or targets.

Oral estradiol provides a very effective means of feminization. Its dosing and subsequent adjustments, like other medications to follow, is dependant on measured testosterone levels, the degree of feminization achieved, side effects and other impediments to a healthy condition.

Oral estradiol is usually supplied in 0.5 mg (milligram), 1.0 mg, and 2.0 mg tablets.

Conjugated Estrogens-Naturally Occurring (e.g., Premarin)

The most common mixture of natural estrogens is called Premarin. Derived from the urine of pregnant mares, Premarin contains a number of different (conjugated) estrogens and is obtained through the extraction process. Compounds derived from such a process not only subject animals to unduly harsh conditions, but may contain additional substances that create a potential for unknown or adverse effects. In our observation, there is a greater likelihood of mood swings and depression seen in patients using naturally derived estrogens as compared to synthesized preparations such as estradiol.

Conjugated Estrogens-Synthesized (Cenestin)

Conjugated estrogens may be synthesized also. One such medication, Cenestin, is a slow-release conjugated estrogens product derived from plant sources. Cenestin contains the same three primary and six minor estrogens found in Premarin.

Other Estrogens

Other plant-derived estrogens, called esterified estrogens, are usually made from modified soy (Estratab, Menest).

Estropipate (Ogen, Ortho-Est) is a version of estrone, a weaker form of estrogen.

ESTROGENS – FOR INJECTION

Estradiol Valerate

Estradiol Valerate is formulated as a longer-acting product that is usually contained in an oil preparation. Like oral medications, injectable preparations are manufactured in differing strengths. In the case of Estradiol Valerate, the drug is typically formulated in a concentration between 10mg to 40mg of active ingredient per milliliter (mL).

While some may be fearful of injection, the amount administered will usually be contained in one mL. To give an idea about that amount of liquid, a small spoon holds about 5 milliliters. Estradiol Valerate may be typically injected weekly to monthly, with the frequency/concentration based on the measured testosterone levels for the patient.

The more direct route of administration provided by injection may speed the physical change by creating a higher and more constant source of estrogen. Ideally, injection should require less processing by the liver, but all to often improper administration (poor or no monitoring, self-medicating, etc.) instead creates undue health risks.

ESTROGENS – TOPICAL USE (Through the skin)

Interestingly, some of the most ineffective as well as some of the most beneficial preparations are available in topical form.

Creams

Estrogen creams (e.g., Premarin cream) are sometimes applied to areas of the skin, such as the breasts. The benefits from such an approach usually range from very minimal to unfelt.

Skin patches

Medication skin patches, also called transdermal or percutaneous patches, provide a very effective means of medicating. In this approach, the estrogen (estradiol is used) is transferred into the body directly through the skin. The transdermal approach offers ample delivery of medication for full feminization. And its consistent and prolonged release make for a safe and sensible approach.

But the transdermal approach is pricey, being probably the most expensive means of administration. Some individuals suffer skin irritation related to the adhesive. For others, the presence of a patch is awkward or tends to come loose from the skin, especially during sustained activity, such as sports or outdoor activities. The adherence problem can be addressed with the use of a skin preparation that helps the patch stay in place even in the presence of moist conditions or heavy perspiration. See A Sticky Solution to Transdermal Adhesion Problems.

Transdermal patches uniformly contain estradiol as the active medication, produced in 0.05mg (50 micrograms, 50 mcg) and 0.1 mg (100 mcg) concentrations, and are branded under a variety of names such as Climara and Alora. The reader will notice that the dose amount contained in the patch is about one-tenth to one-twentieth as the same drug that is taken orally. These concentrations are considered potent since transdermal entry of the drug is many factors more efficient than oral administration.

Progesterone

PROGESTINS (PROGESTERONE) – ORAL USE

As mentioned in Section 5, progestins have an arguable positive effect for the transgender individual. It is likely that if a progestin is chosen, a minimal dose of oral medroxyprogesterone acetate (Provera) may be given on a cyclic basis. Such a typical regimen may provide for its use for about ten days of the month. Less likely would be its use on an uninterrupted basis.

PROGESTINS (PROGESTERONE) – FOR INJECTION

A progestin may also be given by injection. The same medication, medroxyprogesterone acetate, is available in an aqueous suspension for injection. It is typically branded as Depo-Provera and its typical use is to provide long-term (about three months) contraception from a single injection. Another injectable medication sometimes chosen for transgender use is hydroprogesterone caproate (Proluton Depot). From our experience, we do not see a benefit from the use of injectable progestins. Patients have regularly expressed complaints and have suffered adverse side effects.

Anti-Androgens

The use of an anti-androgen has been used for many years by endocrinologists as a biochemical means of controlling unwanted hair growth in the genetic female. In recent years, this treatment approach had been introduced in treatment of transgendered women and is now being widely practiced.

It has been our experience that anti-androgens have a role second only to estrogen in the feminizing process. Further, without the use of anti-androgens, adequate and desirable demasculinization will likely be greatly curtailed. And following genital surgery or castration, continued use of anti-androgens is strongly recommended if continued feminization is expected.

Spironolactone (Aldactone)

The drug most commonly used for the task of diminishing one’s response to androgens is spironolactone (branded as Aldactone). Like many other drugs in the category of anti-androgen, spironolactone is used other than for its primary or generally intended purpose. In the case of spironolactone, it is a diuretic and anti-hypertensive medication.

Spironolactone is a good choice for an anti-androgen. It is generally well tolerated, even when administered over a period of years. And when by happenstance, a mildly hypertensive patient enters into transgender treatment, often spironolactone can be provided as a substitute; by doing so, the medication now serves a dual purpose. While spironolactone is a potassium saving diuretic, the normal monitoring of blood chemistry during transgender treatment assures its safe administration.

Patients often report increased unpleasant side effects (such as a need for frequent urination) when doses over 300mg per day are taken. Typically doses of 200mg daily or less are well tolerated.

Finasteride (Proscar, Propecia)

Another good choice for an anti-androgen is finasteride (Proscar, Propecia), and is able to be used in concert with spironolactone. The primary use of Proscar (finasteride 5 mg) was in the treatment of benign prostatic enlargement, but with its reintroduction as Propecia (finasteride 1 mg), the drug is being largely marketed to promote scalp hair growth. For transgendered women, finasteride when given in the larger dose promotes not only scalp hair growth but acts as an potent anti-androgen as it is highly effective in inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to DHT (dehydrotestosterone) responsible for male sexual characteristics. Finasteride is usually physically well tolerated over long durations, but is expensive.

Anti-Androgens whose potential risk may outweigh their benefit

Keep in mind that unlike estrogens, the drugs that are used as anti-androgens, when initially released, were typically intended for a variety of medical conditions, including some very serious conditions. In effect, through clinical use, these drugs have been re-purposed for a feminization regimen.

Typically, drugs that address more serious medical conditions (e.g., cancer) have effects that may be not only potent, but harmful and unexpected, as their potential hazards may far outweigh their benefits. Simply put, these drugs may be more harm than good. Such drugs include:

Leuprolide acetate (Lupron)

Leuprolide acetate (Lupron) is used as an anti-androgen as it has the potential to reduce testosterone to castrate levels. It is an analog of naturally occurring gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH or LH-RH). The analog possesses greater potency than the natural hormone. Lupron is normally used in the treatment of advanced prostatic cancer when orchiectomy (removal of the testicles) or estrogen administration are either not indicated or unacceptable to the patient.

Lupron does carry a variety of risks that have been associated with its use including a variety of cardiovascular difficulties (congestive heart failure, ECG changes/ischemia, blood pressure changes, murmur), musculoskeletal pain and fluid retention. While the non-transgender male suffering from prostatic cancer may consider these risks acceptable as compared to castration or estrogens, these same risks seem absurd in the parlance of a feminization regimen.

Flutamide (Eulexin)

Flutamide (Eulexin) is another drug used ordinarily in the treatment of prostatic cancer and has somehow been adopted as acceptable medication in transgender treatment. Flutamide carries the risk of liver injury to the patient.

Ketoconazole (Nizoral)

Ketoconazole (Nizoral) similarly carries the potential of injury to the liver, however its normal use is as an anti-fungal agent.

Cyproterone acetate (Androcur)

Cyproterone acetate (Androcur) is an anti-androgen that has been used to treat hypersexuality and sexual deviation in men; it is also used in the treatment of cancer of the prostate. It is used, in part, to treat severe acne in women. Its high-dose treatment sufficient for a feminization regimen may cause liver damage, resulting in jaundice or hepatitis.

Overview

When one considers the advancements and availability of sound medical management in the area of transgender treatment, most often the feminization regimen required for the transgendered individual can be handled with little complication. Today, there are well trained providers available worldwide.

Sadly, too few individuals have addressed their own internal conflicts and fears concerning their transgenderism. As a result, addressing one’s transgender concerns may unsettle the individual wishing to pursue proper and sound medical treatment. The individual who may readily appreciate the risks associated with self-medication and less than acceptable therapies under other circumstances, may opt for such solutions in the transgender milieu. And accordingly, the likelihood of serious health risks and poor outcomes is unacceptably high as a result. Sensibility and proper medical management are the cornerstones for a successful outcome.

[Adrian]

Penny,
I’ve been eating out with groups and with friends for many years now in Sydney. I can’t make a list of tgirl friendly places because they all are. In what must now be a hundred or so visits I have only ever had one bad experience – and that was in a Black Stump steak house “out west’ where we were seated next to a young (and inquisitive) family.

Any list of T friendly places would just be unmanageable as it would include just about every restaurant!

Just decide what you like to eat and go for it!
Amanda

[Adrian]

MODERATOR HEALTH WARNING

Whilst I posted the original newspaper article, and yes it is pretty controversial, I don’t want to start a religious debate because
a) Transgender news is the wrong forum
b) It is likely the postings will violate the site rule about not attacking someone or their beliefs.

So… post with care on this thread…. and I reserve the right to edit/delete anything that is off-topic or inflammatory.