Trans Men Reclaiming Their Menstrual Experiences: A Journey Toward Empowerment

Kabir Mann's Journey

Kabir Mann, who grew up in Delhi, faced the challenge of irregular menstrual cycles from his teenage years. As he prepared to begin hormone replacement therapy (HRT), concerns about his irregular cycles led him to seek medical advice. A gynecologist diagnosed him with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and noted his elevated testosterone levels. Despite the medical insights, what lingered most painfully for Mann was the necessity of discussing menstruation at all. He recalls, "I wanted to hide it so badly despite the pain because I was afraid that if I discussed it, then people would never address me as a man."

Overcoming Dysphoria

For Mann, the word "menstruation" was fraught with dysphoria. Growing up in a society that conflates menstruation with femininity was a source of considerable discomfort. However, a significant change occurred when he joined a non-governmental organization that offered him sex education and a platform to engage with his identity positively. "I started taking sessions on menstrual health and management," Mann shares. These sessions, alongside HRT, empowered him to view menstruation differently. "Since I took the first dose, my menstruation stopped," he notes, acknowledging the relief HRT provided. Yet, he also emphasizes, "there are many trans men and transmasculine people who don’t want to alter their bodies, and they see their gender identity and their bodies as separate, and that’s wonderful too."

Vihaan's Struggle

Vihaan, hailing from a village in Maharashtra, encountered similar challenges. The intersection of menstruation and gender dysphoria made his experience particularly distressing. "I wouldn’t use the washroom in the college, so I would drink less water and fall sick often," he recounts. This struggle was exacerbated by the lack of accessible washrooms and the fear of disclosing his identity in public spaces.

Now an independent consultant in LGBTQ+ advocacy in Bangalore, Vihaan began HRT at 25. The cessation of menstruation was a significant relief, though he still endures monthly menstrual pains. "It makes me very happy and at peace to know that I don’t menstruate anymore," he says.

Community Support and Advocacy

In the face of societal challenges, trans men are increasingly turning to community-driven projects for support. Ale Pedraza Buenahora, a photojournalist based in New York, initiated the Repro Masculinity project. This collection of interviews delves into the reproductive health experiences of transmasculine and nonbinary individuals. "The need to do this project began from my own debilitating experience with menstruation," Buenahora explains. They highlight the lack of adequate medical guidance and the importance of peer support in navigating gender-affirming medical interventions.

Jesse Lovegood, a queer-affirmative therapist in San Francisco, underscores how menstruation can be a painful reminder for many trans men of their undesired bodily characteristics. The scarcity of gender-neutral washrooms exacerbates the issue, forcing individuals to choose between personal comfort and public visibility.

Inclusive Spaces and Narratives

Dr. Ayden Scheim's research at Drexel University reveals the prevalence of washroom avoidance among trans people due to fear of mistreatment. "Physically, this can lead to urinary tract infections, incontinence, and bladder and kidney problems," Scheim notes, emphasizing the urgent need for inclusive facilities.

Despite these hurdles, trans men and transmasculine people are reclaiming their menstrual experiences. By fostering affirming spaces, they challenge traditional narratives and expand the discourse on menstruation to include all genders. Through peer education, art, and community storytelling, they are fostering acceptance and redefining masculinity on their terms.

Vihaan calls for public media campaigns that include trans men in menstrual care dialogues, which would foster broader societal acceptance and dignity. These efforts are crucial in helping trans men assert control over their bodies and experiences, contributing to a more inclusive understanding of gender and identity.

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