Conversations around gender, health, and bodies have become more visible in recent years, and with that has come understandable confusion around certain topics, including menstruation.
This article explains the medical facts, while also addressing why this question sometimes arises.
In this blog, we'll discuss the experiences of trans women. We'll also provide advice on managing recurring or cyclical symptoms as a trans woman, and offer tips on how to be a supportive ally.
Everyone's experience with gender and gender identity is different and unique. A trans woman is a woman who was assigned male at birth. Some people who identify as non-binary can also identify as a trans woman.
To feel more like themselves, many trans women choose to undergo various gender-affirming procedures. This means they might go through different steps, like hormone therapy and sometimes surgery, to feel more comfortable.
It's all about being true to who they are and feeling empowered as women.
A menstrual period is the shedding of the uterine lining. This biological process requires a uterus and ovaries. Trans women do not have these reproductive organs and therefore do not menstruate or experience periods in the medical sense.
Some trans women who undergo hormone replacement therapy (HRT) report experiencing recurring or cyclical symptoms, such as:
Mood changes
Fatigue
Bloating
Headaches
Abdominal discomfort
These experiences are sometimes informally described as “period-like,” which can understandably lead to confusion.
Their experience is different to that of cisgender women (those whose gender identity matches their assigned sex at birth) because trans women do not have a uterus and ovaries. Trans women don't bleed during their menstrual cycle due to this, but they can still experience symptoms. Their biology is different, but that doesn't define their identity.
Many trans women choose to undergo hormone replacement therapy (HRT) as part of their journey to develop more feminine physical features. HRT can cause some changes in the body, like softer skin or breast development.
So, even though trans women are not having a monthly period, they might still deal with some familiar-sounding symptoms.
Many transgender women have described experiencing emotional and psychological symptoms similar to premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
These symptoms can include:
These symptoms might happen the same time each month, just like premenstrual syndrome (PMS). For many trans women, these symptoms are what they consider their period.
In women, premenstrual syndrome (PMS) can bring various physical symptoms. Transgender women can also experience some physical sensations, as a result of hormone therapy. This can include:
In people who menstruate, the menstrual cycle is driven by a complex interaction between the brain, ovaries, uterus, and naturally fluctuating hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. This cycle leads to ovulation and, if pregnancy does not occur, menstruation.
Hormone replacement therapy does not replicate this process.
HRT involves externally administered hormones
It does not cause ovulation
It does not create a uterine lining
It does not produce a true menstrual cycle
Any recurring symptoms reported by trans women are not caused by a menstrual cycle, but may relate to hormone dosing schedules, individual sensitivity to hormones, or general side effects of treatment. Research in this area remains limited, and experiences vary widely.
Here are some top tips for navigating your period as a transgender woman:
Talk about your feelings with your friends, family, or support groups. Having open conversations can offer you emotional support and help you deal with any hurdles that come your way.
You can find a list of support groups and helplines dedicated to people within the trans community here.
Companies are now making period products that cater to everyone, no matter their gender identity. These products can help you feel more at ease during your period. At fluxies, our period underwear can help you feel comfortable and affirmed during your period. We offer different styles, from Bikinis to Boxer Shorts, so you can find something to suit you.
When you're going through discomfort and stress related to this time, practicing some self-care can make a world of difference. Think about relaxation techniques, soaking in a warm bath, or maybe some gentle exercise to ease the tension.
Engage in activities that affirm your sense of self. Whether this involves spending time with friends, or treating yourself to your favourite food, do things that bring you joy.
Use a tracking app such as Clue to stay updated on your cycle and symptoms. This simple and convenient method can help you feel more organised and empowered.
If you're experiencing anything out of the ordinary, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional. They can give you guidance and support to make sure you're doing okay.
Remember, everyone is different. It's all about finding what works best for you and embracing your unique journey.
Being a supportive ally doesn’t require redefining biological processes. It means treating people with dignity and respect.
Helpful ways to do this include:
Using the name and pronouns someone asks you to use
Avoiding intrusive questions about bodies or medical history
Creating environments where people feel safe and respected
Understanding that experiences vary widely from person to person.
Myth: Periods define womanhood
Menstruation is a biological function, not a definition of identity. Not all women menstruate, and not all people who menstruate identify as women.
Myth: Describing “period-like” symptoms means menstruation
Cyclical symptoms are not the same as a menstrual cycle. Using accurate language helps avoid misunderstanding.
Myth: Everyone has the same experience
Bodies, treatments, and responses to hormones differ greatly. There is no single experience that applies to everyone.
Menstrual health deserves clarity, care, and accuracy. Trans women do not menstruate, but some may experience recurring symptoms while on hormone therapy that they describe as similar in timing or feeling.
At Fluxies, our goal is to provide clear, responsible information and comfortable products, while respecting the importance of biological reality and the diversity of human experience.
