What Cis-Society Didn't Say About Being a Woman | MTF Transgender
Transitioning from presenting as a male to presenting as a female involves many changes that cis-society often does not discuss openly. There are both exciting new opportunities and challenging restrictions that transgender women must learn to navigate.
This article explores the question - What Cis-Society Didn't Say About Being a Woman - some of the key differences, double standards, and societal expectations placed upon women that trans women may not be prepared for when embarking on their transition.
More Friendliness and Less Threat
When perceived as male, there is often an assumption of potential threat or violence. However, when viewed as female, people tend to be much friendlier. Women will smile back and make eye contact rather than avoid it out of caution.
There is less fear of predatory behavior among women. On the other hand, as a woman, there is now a need for heightened situational awareness when walking alone.
There is vulnerability to being assaulted or attacked that was not present before. The woman herself must now look behind her back in situations where, before, others were wary of her presence as a male.
Physical Affection and Intimacy
Transitioning from male to female opens up more physical affection and intimacy in female friendships. Actions like cuddling or sharing a bed become more permissible and less sexually charged.
There can be greater emotional closeness without the pressure or fears associated with male interactions. The dynamics and boundaries around physical touch shift considerably after transitioning.
Assistance with Physical Tasks
When viewed as a woman, there is no longer an expectation to lift heavy objects or do strenuous physical tasks. Men will readily assist and take over these activities.
This provides validation of femininity and the feeling of being protected or cared for as a woman. Simple actions like having a man carry heavy bags can be euphoric confirmation of being seen as a woman.
Pressure for Beauty and Presentation
There are greater expectations placed on women regarding presentation, beauty, and appearance. Extensive time must be spent focused on hair, makeup, nails, clothing, and style to achieve standards of looking put together.
Women also have to pay constant attention to feminizing their voices in all situations. Much more mental energy and maintenance are required compared to the norms for men.
Age and Desirability
A woman's age becomes a major factor in her perceived desirability and attractiveness, much more so than with men. Women are considered most desirable in their 20s and 30s. After that, aging leads to a sharp decline in perceived beauty and value.
This creates immense pressure to make the most of youthful years before being hit by the effects of aging. It can influence major life decisions around relationships, careers, and goals during middle age.
Summary
In conclusion, transitioning from male to female involves many changes that cis-society often does not discuss openly. Transgender women may face both exciting new opportunities and challenging restrictions as they navigate these changes.
On the one hand, trans women may experience greater friendliness and less threat from others, as well as more physical affection and intimacy in female friendships. They may also find that men are more willing to assist them with physical tasks.
On the other hand, trans women may also face greater expectations regarding presentation, beauty, and appearance. They may also feel more vulnerable to assault or attack, and they may feel pressure to make the most of their youthful years before being hit by the effects of aging.
It is important for trans women to be aware of these challenges and to have a support system in place to help them navigate them. There are many resources available to trans women, including online communities, support groups, and mental health professionals.
Trans women are a diverse group of people with a wide range of experiences. It is important to remember that the challenges discussed in this article may not apply to all trans women, and that there is no one right way to be a trans woman.