Transfeminine, or transfemme, typically refers to individuals who were assigned male at birth (AMAB) but identify more closely with femininity than masculinity. This can encompass a wide range of identities, including transgender women, nonbinary, genderqueer, or genderfluid people, all of whom express some level of feminine identity.While some transfeminine individuals fully identify as women, others may adopt femininity without strictly adhering to the gender binary.The term allows space for people who embody femininity in their gender expression, regardless of whether they transition medically or not, underscoring that gender identity and gender expression are deeply personal and multifaceted. Related Am I nonbinary? A guide to what it means to identify outside the gender binary Never Miss a Beat Subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights. Subscribe to our Newsletter today How does transfeminine differ from transgender women? | Shutterstock Although transgender women are part of the transfeminine spectrum, not all transfeminine people identify strictly as women.A key distinction between a trans woman and a transfemme person lies in the specific gender identity and experience. Trans women are individuals assigned male at birth (AMAB) who identify fully as women and may transition to align their gender expression with their female identity. On the other hand, transfemme (or transfeminine) individuals also express femininity but may not identify wholly as women. Some transfemme individuals are nonbinary, genderfluid, or genderqueer and might adopt elements of a traditionally female transition while maintaining a nonbinary or androgynous identity.This concept was well articulated by Reddit user CharmFlicks, who expressed confusion about the nuances of being transfeminine vs. a trans woman. They mentioned questioning their gender for years and felt that the term transfeminine resonated more with their experience than trans woman. This highlights how some AMAB individuals might feel more aligned with femininity but not necessarily with the label of womanhood.In response, Reddit user mistcal clarified: Transfeminine is the nonbinary equivalent of trans woman. It means our transition resembles in some ways the transition of a trans woman, though the degree, scope, and intention may all be different. For instance, some transfemme individuals take hormones (HRT) but might not seek surgeries, while others maintain an androgynous appearance despite transitioning.Other Reddit responses further illustrate this distinction. User Harpoon385 explained that a transfeminine person might want to take estrogen and present femininely but does not necessarily identify as wholly female. For example, an AMAB person who is non-binary but still wishes to look like a woman could identify as transfeminine. By considering both the identity and the way gender is experienced, this distinction between transfeminine individuals and trans women helps foster a more nuanced understanding of gender identity, especially for those questioning their own relationship with femininity. Related How writing a novel helped me understand my gender identity How do transfeminine individuals express their gender? | Shutterstock Gender expression for transfeminine people can take many forms. Some may opt for medical transitions like hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or gender-affirming surgeries, while others might not. Regardless of whether or not a person chooses to undergo medical interventions, gender expression remains a critical part of their identity. For example, many transfeminine individuals might choose to express their femininity through clothing, hairstyles, makeup, and mannerisms traditionally coded as feminine.The key here is understanding that no single path defines the transfeminine experience. Everyones journey is different, and not all transfeminine individuals want or need medical procedures to feel validated in their gender. The challenges transfeminine people faceTransfeminine individuals often encounter unique challenges, including societal stigma, discrimination in healthcare, and a lack of legal protections. This can be especially difficult for those who do not conform to binary gender norms. In healthcare, transfeminine people often face providers unfamiliar with gender-affirming care or even outright hostility, contributing to disparities in access to necessary treatments like HRT.According to a June 2020 survey from the Center for American Progress and NORC at the University of Chicago, half of transgender folks, including 68% of transgender people of color, have faced mistreatment from healthcare providers. This includes being refused care or experiencing verbal and physical abuse. How race, class, and ability affect transfeminine experiences | ShutterstockTransfeminine individuals are not a monolith. Their experiences are shaped by their race, socioeconomic status, and ability, among other factors. For example, Black and Brown transfeminine people often face disproportionate levels of violence and discrimination, both within and outside of LGBTQ+ spaces. Meanwhile, those with disabilities may encounter additional barriers in accessing gender-affirming care or finding community support.Affirmation for transfeminine individuals comes in many formssocial, legal, and medical. Socially, using the correct names and pronouns is a simple but powerful way to validate someones identity. Legally, progress is being made in some areas to ensure transfeminine individuals can update their identification documents to reflect their true gender. However, many regions still lack comprehensive legal protections, making advocacy for such rights essential.Subscribe to the LGBTQ Nation newsletter to stay updated on the latest news and stories impacting the LGBTQ+ community. From breaking political developments to inspiring personal journeys, our newsletter covers it all.