Living the life of a transsexual can be really hard. I know I don't have to tell you that. But while the day-to-day can be difficult, dating can be even harder. Finding a mate who can love and accept you as you will unfortunately not come easily. Like any person, you will have to deal with rejection, heartbreak and disappointment, but don't be dismayed, because love is out there, and you can find it.
One of the biggest issues you will deal with is telling your partner that you're transsexual. You won't have this problem if you've primarily stuck to online dating forums designed for transsexuals, but you most definitely will if you're just hitting the bar scene or standard online dating. Don't feel like you are forced into the niche online dating market as a transsexual. You should explore and date whomever you want. Just know that there will come a time when your transsexuality will have to be discussed. So why, how and when do you discuss it?
Although every relationship and every person is different, there are a few things that you can keep in mind when talking to your partner about your transsexuality.
First and foremost, you should absolutely tell them about it. It's a major factor in your life. It's made you who you are and has required lots of careful consideration and change. Leaving this huge fact out of your life with your partner is like not telling your partner that you're a devout Muslim. Moreover, though telling your partner can be daunting, you shouldn't be afraid to be who you are. In fact, you should be proud of yourself.
When it comes to telling your partner, you will want to make sure that you have timed it correctly. This is not typically something that you should wait a year or so to reveal. Holding back that kind of information for a long time can cause your partner to feel misled and resent you. Sadly, it's important to keep in mind that the odds are not in your favor. Your partner might not react well, and it could end, but that shouldn't keep you from being honest, especially because there are success stories, like this one. This is why you should have this talk before deep-seated feelings have formed. Bring it up as soon as you feel like your dating situation could move into relationship territory. At this point, you have both already started to invest in each other but aren't in so deep that you'll be devastated if it ends.
As for how to tell your partner, well, that's a very personal decision. You can catch them off guard, or you can plan the whole thing out perfectly. Whatever you do decide, I recommend that you use a scientific explanation to explain your transsexuality. Tell them that you have gender dysphoria, and explain what it is and why you needed to take the steps to feel right in your body. Stay calm, and get ready to answer a lot of questions. Do not get defensive, and try to respect the fact that they might have some tough questions and could become confused or angry. Just be positive and open.
With all this said, it is important to go out and meet people. Pushing people away won't make you feel any better or bring you any happiness. Don't be afraid to develop feelings for someone just because they might not accept you in the end. Putting yourself out there and making yourself vulnerable is the only real way to find love and make lasting relationships.
And in the meantime, just continue loving yourself and being the only person you need to make you happy.