Hi, I'm a trans woman. I was wondering when should I come out to my friends and people who show interests in me that I'm actually trans not cis? I never have experience doing this. This is the first time I come to a place and openly live as a woman. Thank you for anyone who is willing to enlighten me.

Hey folks,

I've been looking into getting a second post-surgery binder for my upcoming DI w/ nipple grafts and I'm not sure if I need something that binds higher on me or if compression vests with a larger arm hole is okay?

The reason I'm asking is because my surgeon says a second binder is a "nice to have" but not necessary because they provide a free binder. I'd still like a second one for my own hygiene preference. His office won't recommend or sell any to me and I noticed that the free one he provides is basically an abdominal binder 🤷🏼

So confused and needing insight. Thanks friends 🙏🏼

Hi everyone,

If you are looking for a permanent solution to your unwanted hair, I am a certified electrologist and approved surgery prep provider with Trans Care BC and I recently opened a private clinic in Burnaby!

Finding a safe space you trust might feel daunting but I am making this post (with permission) to say that if you are looking for a solution to your unwanted hair I am here to support you no matter how you identify or present because I believe that every person deserves to feel beautiful in the skin they're in.

I offer head to toe permanent hair removal and complementary consultations so if you are interested in electrolysis but are not quite sure if it is a good fit or would like to learn more please feel free to reach out.

If you are working with Trans Care BC to receive bottom surgery, they will cover all the costs associated with your pre-operative hair removal once you have been approved for surgery. You will be able to find my information on the list of approved providers, but if you received your list before September I may not have yet been listed at my current location.

If you have extended health coverage you may also be able to receive coverage for your treatments because they fall under the umbrella of gender affirming care. Depending on your plan, what they cover may vary, but it never hurts to look into it and see what they offer and if you need a doctors note to be eligible.

If you would like more information about me or my clinic you can contact me directly (email: peloelectrolysis@gmail.com, text: 604-839-8224) or explore my website ( peloelectrolysis.com ) and instagram (@pelo_electrolysis).

Top surgery is on January 6th!!!!

Now to get ready, any suggestions or advice would be great 😅

So grateful for the help and info sharing from this community 🙏🏼

So, I have been searching everywhere for post-op pictures from Dr. Dao Nguyen and Dr. Jennifer Klok, but I’ve only found a few results. For Dr. Dao Nguyen, I found just two results; one on TransBucket and the other on Reddit. I also joined the FTM top surgery results group on Facebook, but there are absolutely no results for her there, and her album is empty. For Dr. Jennifer Klok, I was able to find only three or four results, but most posts in the Facebook group showed results from Dr. Jennifer Robinson instead of Dr. Klok. Also, her name doesn’t even show up on TransBucket. If anyone knows where I can find more post-op pictures of their work, I’d really appreciate the advice.

EDIT: Hi everyone - WOW! Thank you all so so much for reaching out to me via email and dm. I have had about 40 folks reach out to me which is so lovely. I promise I am going to get back to you all today. At this time, I am pausing recruitment because I only have funding for about 25 people. I wish I could talk to each and every one of you <3
After this research project, I have about 3 more projects lined up, so if approved by mods in the future to post here, I hope to chat with more of you then.
Thank you all so much again! <3

Hi everyone!

I posted about 8 months ago now and I had a handful of wonderful people reach out to me to participate in this research, and I am looking for about 12-15 more people :)

My name is Kay (Pronouns: They/He), and I am a queer, transmasculine PhD student at the University of British Columbia, supervised by Dr. Mark Beauchamp (Principal Investigator) in the School of Kinesiology located on the traditional, stolen lands of the Musqueam. I am currently conducting a study exploring transgender and gender-diverse adults’ experiences with physical activity throughout the lifespan. I am once again reaching out to the Vancouver trans Reddit community to see:

1. If folks would be comfortable in helping with recruitment by sending the study information to anyone that comes to mind, and/or
2. If anyone here wishes to participate! :)

Who?
I am recruiting 20-25 individuals who self-identify as transgender and/or gender-diverse and who are aged 19 to 64 years, living in the greater Vancouver area.

** You do not need to be someone who participates in organized sport or physical activity - I am hoping to highlight a variety of experiences with movement more broadly which can include any form of active transportation, casual hiking, etc. You do not even need to like physical activity - all experiences with any movement of the body is welcome and encouraged. :)

What is involved?
The study would involve the individuals participating in two interviews with myself that would last approximately 1.5-2 hours each. Interviews will be conducted on Zoom, or if preferred, on UBC Vancouver Campus. Between interviews, participants will be asked to complete a timeline activity, estimated to take approximately 30-60 minutes.

As a small token of appreciation for all participant's time, energy, and vulnerability those who take part will receive a $50 honorarium.

Why?
This study aims to shed light on the experiences of transgender and gender-diverse adults when it comes to physical activity. Currently, there is limited research available on this topic, especially in Canada. The research that has been done often focuses on negative experiences, such as difficulties with body image or challenges with binary changerooms. However, this approach does not fully capture the diverse range of experiences that transgender and gender-diverse individuals have with physical activity. By being aware of transgender and gender-diverse individuals’ experiences with physical activity throughout their transition and exploration with gender, health professionals can better understand and address the issues relating to inclusive and equitable physical activity opportunities.

Attached I have included a poster that can be conveniently shared via email, social media platforms, or displayed in a safe-inclusive space. Additionally, a Letter of Introduction that provides further information regarding the nature of the study and what participation entails can be viewed here or by scanning the QR code on the attached recruitment poster. Your assistance in circulating this information to individuals who may be interested in taking part would be greatly appreciated. :)

If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to contact me via messaging me on Reddit or emailing me at trans.activity@ubc.ca or my personal email at kay.anderson@ubc.ca.

I am also more than happy to chat via phone or Zoom if anyone would be more comfortable putting a face to the name of this work before signing up to participate. My aim for this project is to foster a community participatory and anti-oppressive approach where folks feel as comfortable as possible to highlight the complexity and nuance of identities and experiences, so anything I can do to help and aid in this sense of comfort, I would be happy to discuss :)

Thank you so much everyone!
Kay (they/he)
Student researcher of the Kinesiology transACTIVITY project

Ethics ID: H23-04106

• Please note, there is no obligation to agree to the potential recruitment of participants, any individual’s involvement will be completely voluntary (anyone can withdraw at any time), and their identity will be kept confidential

https://preview.redd.it/9c6hgmybra3e1.png?width=1889&format=png&auto=webp&s=4ffc3ec748ac62aa8026faab43826078392c77fd

I badly need dental work done, but I'm procrastinating due to bad experiences in the past (do not ever go to Mercato Dental on the drive, I milled through like 4 of their dentists and they were all various degrees of transphobic)

Who do y'all see? I just need routine care

Hi all, I am currently in the process of accessing top surgery. The person I am doing my surgical readiness assessments has suggested Dr McKee. I'm just wondering what people's experiences have been like with him and how your results have turned out. I have been looking at his Instagram and website. But I figure the best is always shown on social media so thought I'd do my own little recon. Also if you went with someone else I'd love to know who and what that was like. Any info is helpful and thank you!

I’m a gay ftm and I’ve been finding it really difficult and lonely in Vancouver lately. I am very lucky that I have a large group + community of queer friends around me, but nobody else who really faces the same kind of issues that I do as a gay trans man. I haven’t really found myself comfortable in gay spaces yet, ‘cause I feel like I don’t belong or I’m not welcomed. I was looking at support groups or meet ups but it seems like there aren’t any Ftm specific spaces, let alone Ftm gay spaces. I feel like I am going insane, things are politically getting scary and I feel like the community is so much more divided than it was 10 years ago when I was doing queer organizing in Alberta. I’ve done organizing before so I’ve been thinking about starting some sort of community space/event for Vancouver ftms, whatever that might look like, but even with that I don’t really know where to start, this city seems so unfriendly to that type of thing. Any leads/suggestions?

I’m a gay ftm and I’ve been finding it really difficult and lonely in Vancouver lately. I am very lucky that I have a large group + community of queer friends around me, but nobody else who really faces the same kind of issues that I do as a gay trans man. I haven’t really found myself comfortable in gay spaces yet, ‘cause I feel like I don’t belong or I’m not welcomed. I was looking at support groups or meet ups but it seems like there aren’t any Ftm specific spaces, let alone Ftm gay spaces. I feel like I am going insane, things are politically getting scary and I feel like the community is so much more divided than it was 10 years ago when I was doing queer organizing in Alberta. I’ve done organizing before so I’ve been thinking about starting some sort of community space/event for Vancouver ftms, whatever that might look like, but even with that I don’t really know where to start, this city seems so unfriendly to that type of thing. Any leads/suggestions?

So, I (21) am an International student from India at L. College and a woman of trans experience. Immigrating to Canada has been a really hard but equally rewarding journey.

Away from my conservative family, I was able to discover who I truly was and stopped hating myself to the guts and projecting all of that anger (trapped inside of me for years) onto people I care about. I absolutely love this country and I would always want the best for this country because it gave me a warm shelter to truly express myself without any fears and I absolutely love how nice (some) Canadians can be. I want to contribute to this country’s success and growth. I know international students get blamed for almost every bad thing happening in Canada rn and it breaks my heart and demotivates, saddens, and pushes me into a dark space. I know the hate is not specifically directed towards me but to the community, I am a part of.

Being trans, a woman, a POC and an immigrant, most of these communities I am a part of, get a lot of unnecessary hate, and it breaks my soul because I genuinely want to make a living and just be myself while living in this beautiful country.

I have been really struggling with my mental health after moving to this country at the age of 19 without any familial support and I was too nervous to ask for guidance and help to navigate this foreign system.

Recent immigration laws are really scaring me to the core that I might want to end myself if I can’t live in this country.

People tell me that I can go through the rainbow refugee thing but I dont want to do that. I want my residency and citizenship in the rightful way and I cannot afford to lose connection with my home country.

I really dont know what is going to happen and I am not sure what to do because this is really exhausting and I’m tired.

As a 21 year old, I feel this is super hard because not only I am on the other side of the world from my family but also being trans and navigating such a harsh system at such a young age is extremely challenging and I’m losing hope every single day.

I’m sorry for all the Canadians who might not understand my struggles, it is okay and we do not have to agree. It is your country first, I get it but I’m just also trying to make the best out of my life just like you.

Please do not proceed to post any râcist or hateful comments under this post because people can be in really vulnerable positions and I don’t want anyone in similar situations as me to take it to their heart.

Hope you all have a beautiful holiday time ahead <3

Hey all! So I’m officially on the list for bottom surgery, it’s been a long time coming!

I have a question for all the out of town folks who have had surgery in Vancouver, where did you stay for the time you had to be in town and how much did you have to pay out of pocket? I know Hope air is supposed to cover a few nights but not all! Also did you have to pay for a room the nights you were in the hospital?

I just want to make sure I have more then enough saved for that so I’m not stressing about that when the day comes, I’m sure there will be enough on my mind on that day lol!

I sent in a name change request in June, I was meant to get a form and i believe a new birth certificate (it was so long ago that i applied i can hardly remember) around November 15th, but with the Canada Post strike I guess that's not happening anymore. Honestly I'm not really even sure what to ask but I was desperate to have my name changed by around this time for many reasons. Anyone have any idea of what's going on behind the scenes or maybe an estimated timeline or something? Is there maybe a way to continue with my name change without getting the forms from the mail? I assume not, I'm just feeling kinda lost and stressed out about the whole thing.

With any luck I'll be starting in a month or so but I like to be prepared...

Are there better or worse pharmacies? Hoping for something East Van, or that does delivery. What's working for you?

I’ve been waiting since June to get into a gender affirming clinic. I’m from a small town in Northern BC and have to be referred to a different town. Anyone else dealing with this? or have any advice while waiting?

Hi everyone! I’ve been on t for 8.5 months through 3 bridges. I’ve wanted top surgery for years, and a few different life situations have pushed it back and now I’m ready!

I was wondering how yall went about it. My family doctor knows I’m trans and knows I want top surgery eventually and the doctor at 3 bridges knows as well, but we didn’t really have a specific timeline, it was sort of “I’ll go on T first!”

I’m getting a blood test in a couple weeks to check my levels and I’m thinking I could bring it up when she calls me, but I was wondering if that’s typical.

Thanks :+)

Hi there! Recently asked my doctor about starting HRT and while he agreed to look into it (along with some invalidating comments haha), I wanted to ask how others have gotten there/what your timelines were like.

I was told I’ll be able to do a psych evaluation to see if I’m eligible in 3-4 months, is this the same as as a hormone readiness assessment or would I need both before I can be considered for HRT/referred to a specialist? I was wondering if it’s possible to get moving on things quicker than this, or if that’s the standard and it’s best to just wait. I do have a therapist but they’re on leave until further notice and I don’t have reliable contact.

I did look into self-referrals, but it seems I’m just far enough outside of the Vancouver area to be ineligible for practices there, if anyone has suggestions or recommendations in the Fraser valley area (I am in Delta).

Thanks for reading and sorry if this post is a bit all over the place! I went in expecting more support from my primary doctor and unfortunately am not very experienced with the medical runaround.

I contacted Trans Care BC as I've been told many times by various people to contact them to find out which surgeons offer top surgery in BC especially with respects to specific techniques. However, they just responded telling me they can't say any surgeon names or wait times without me going through the top surgery assessment/readiness and referral process. They told me Three Bridges (where I get HRT from) should be aware of this but back in January the 3B's counsellor was actually the one that told me to call them and recently my NP also said the same thing.

Has this changed?? They specifically said that I had to be assessed because not all techniques are available to everyone and not all surgeons will operate on everyone. This seems like some BS and I don't understand why they won't say any surgeon names? The process is already SO long and convoluted what if I want a direct referral to a specific surgeon? Is this just not possible anymore or do they gatekeep the entire referral process?? Why add so much delay?

I also would like to look up surgeons and their results so I can request one that fits my goals. On Trans Care BCs website they even state that you can request a specific surgeon so none of this makes sense.

Having said all of this, does anyone here know of local BC surgeons who perform inverted T Anchor top surgery? Alternatively I'd be interested in buttonhole but I don't believe that's performed here as it's not even mentioned on Trans Care's website.

I'm aware of Grace-Med in Ontario and I've contacted them for a consult but of course MSP won't cover this and will only cover local top surgery. Inverted T Anchor or Buttonhole is non-negotiable to me so I do not want to see any of the surgeons who just do the standard DI.

Thanks in advance for any help!!

Hi all, my gp retired and i havent found a new one. Classic story i know 😅

Anyways im almost out of T and I just wanted to check if theres even a point in waiting in line at a clinic to get a refill. Ive been on T for 5 years and stable dosage if that helps my case at all.

I live in surrey so would prefer something close but i can drive if needed.

Thank you all

Canada’s immigration system utilizes a points-based framework to evaluate candidates for permanent residency, particularly under the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and the Express Entry system.

Each program assesses applicants based on specific factors, assigning points to determine eligibility and ranking.

Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

To qualify for the FSWP, candidates must score at least 67 out of 100 points across six selection factors:

1. Language Skills: Up to 28 points. Proficiency in English and/or French is crucial, with points awarded based on speaking, listening, reading, and writing abilities.

2. Education: Up to 25 points. Points are assigned according to the highest level of education attained, with higher education levels earning more points.

3. Work Experience: Up to 15 points. The amount of skilled work experience in specific occupations influences the score; more years of experience yield higher points.

4. Age: Up to 12 points. Applicants aged 18 to 35 receive maximum points, with points decreasing for older age brackets.

5. Arranged Employment in Canada: Up to 10 points. A valid job offer from a Canadian employer can add points to the application.

6. Adaptability: Up to 10 points. Factors such as previous work or study in Canada, spouse’s language proficiency, or relatives in Canada contribute to adaptability points.

Express Entry System

The Express Entry system manages applications for three economic immigration programs, including the FSWP. It uses the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to rank candidates based on:

1. Core Human Capital Factors: Up to 500 points. This includes age, education, language proficiency, and Canadian work experience.

2. Spouse or Common-Law Partner Factors: Up to 40 points. If applicable, the spouse’s or partner’s education, language skills, and Canadian work experience are considered.

3. Skill Transferability Factors: Up to 100 points. A combination of education, foreign work experience, and a certificate of qualification (for trades) can enhance the score.

4. Additional Factors: Up to 600 points. Points are awarded for Canadian degrees, diplomas or certificates, a valid job offer, a nomination from a province or territory, a sibling living in Canada who is a citizen or permanent resident, and strong French language skills.

The CRS assigns a score out of 1,200, with higher-ranking candidates receiving invitations to apply for permanent residency.

Canada’s immigration points system does not explicitly assign points or prioritize applicants based on sexuality or gender. However, Canada has progressive policies and initiatives that address the unique needs of LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse individuals under its immigration and refugee programs. Here’s how these factors are considered indirectly:

1. LGBTQ+ Refugees and Asylum Seekers

• Canada recognizes persecution based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression as valid grounds for seeking asylum.

Individuals who face discrimination, violence, or systemic persecution in their home countries due to their sexuality or gender may qualify for refugee status.

• The Rainbow Refugee Assistance Partnership is a program designed to support LGBTQ+ refugees by working with sponsorship groups across Canada.

2. Gender Equality in Immigration Programs

• Canada emphasizes gender equality, ensuring that immigration programs are accessible to individuals regardless of gender. Both primary and secondary applicants (such as spouses or partners) are assessed on equal grounds, and points are not affected by gender.

3. Same-Sex Partners and Spouses

• Same-sex marriages and common-law partnerships are fully recognized in Canada’s immigration system. Partners can sponsor each other for permanent residency under the Family Class sponsorship program, just as heterosexual couples can.

4. Protection of Transgender Individuals

• Canada offers avenues for transgender individuals who face discrimination or lack of legal recognition in their home countries. Gender identity and expression are protected under Canadian human rights law.

5. Broader Protections for LGBTQ+ Communities

• Canadian law and society prioritize inclusivity and protection for LGBTQ+ immigrants and newcomers, providing legal rights and access to resources that safeguard their dignity and well-being.

While gender and sexuality do not directly influence the points system in skilled immigration pathways like the Federal Skilled Worker Program or Express Entry, Canada offers robust protections and support for LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse individuals.

I recently booked a virtual hormone readiness assessment with Dr Melady Preece for later this week, the first of two 90-min sessions. This is coming to the end of a three-year crawl towards HRT slowed down by obstacle after obstacle and I am a nervous wreck right now. Absolutely terrified of "failing" and being denied care because of my mental state or not-super-supportive family.

Please, if anyone has any tips, or has past experience with her and knows what she's like, let me know. DMs are open if you'd prefer to talk privately. I've searched for reviews and such before but not much out there.

Help please, if anyone knows of any rooms availible ASAP, I've had no luck on craigslist and Facebook. I'm on disability assistance I guess that's a deal breaker for most landlords... Any help is greatly appreciated.

So I've recently lost all my Trans friends one of which was going to help me with this matter, but I've been wanting to get my named changed for awhile & have been thinking about bottom surgery. But have no idea how to go about the process of doing these things? Any help would really be useful.

I was denied msp for my breast augmentation 😔 Does anyone know or can suggest surgeons they’re happy with or prices? I love Dr Genoway but getting quotes can be abit of a nightmare