Partners & Relationships
Ok, so you’ve just found out that your partner is transgender. You’ve got a lot to consider and don’t really know what to think. Maybe you’ve never heard of transgenderism, maybe you feel confused, or cheated, lied to, betrayed, hurt, repulsed and afraid. Maybe you feel ok with it, unsure, comfortable but don’t really know what to do? Worried about your partner, the kids, your neighbors, work, money…… and the list goes on.
The aim of this support group is to provide participants with a network of support in a safe on-line environment in which participants can communicate with one another constructively. Each session's objectives will be to share resources and assist participants deepen their understanding of their situation and themselves. The focus will be on the participants not their partners.
Like any other group, many trans and gender diverse people have sex, and as a result, have sexual health needs. Sexual health isn’t something to be ashamed of, and doesn’t mean you’re dirty or have done something wrong, it’s just another part of looking after your health.
As a partner you hold a particularly intimate insight into someone’s life; their wellbeing, their body, their hopes and plans. With this intimacy comes a responsibility to affirm, hear and support your person. Taking care to follow your partner’s lead, you might need to be a buffer for concerned or curious family, friends or acquaintances or just be prepared to stand back and allow the relationship to evolve without expectations.
Being attracted to someone who is trans is part of the human sexual experience. How we respond to our attractions varies from person to person. For example, you might feel uncomfortable with these feelings or question your sexual orientation. You might even bury them altogether. You might be totally comfortable with your feelings but worried that you’re going to ‘do something wrong.’ Or, you might find that you actually prefer trans or gender queer people as partners.
Stories, tips and resources to support healthier relationships between trans women and men.
Peer support - Is available to answer your questions and provide support either in person, by phone or email. SWOPtrans aims to provide support to trans sex workers, by providing supplies, outreach, counselling and communication with peers. Call us on (02) 9184 9466 or email. Keep up to date with SWOPShop specials, SWOP social events and all other happenings in the world of sex work by joining one of SWOP's e-lists. Join here.