FemaletoMale

Female-to-male (FTM) is a term historically used to describe a person who was assigned female at birth and identifies as male or masculine. In contemporary usage, many people prefer the terms transgender man or trans man, while some individuals who were assigned female at birth may identify with other labels. The acronym FTM remains in use in some contexts, particularly in medical or community discussions, but its acceptance varies.

Transitioning can encompass social, legal, and medical steps. Social transition may involve adopting a chosen name, using he/him pronouns, and altering presentation. Legal steps can include updating name or gender markers on official documents. Medical options, for those who pursue them, often include hormone therapy with testosterone, chest or breast reconstruction, and other procedures. It is important to note that not all individuals who identify as FTM pursue medical interventions, and the extent of transition is highly individual.

Historically, the term arose in clinical and activist contexts to describe gender transition from female to male. Today, many communities emphasize self-identification and use person-centered language, recognizing that terms can vary in meaning across cultures and over time. Respectful language, avoiding assumptions about a person’s identity or anatomy, is essential when discussing FTM or transgender topics. See also transgender man, gender identity, and gender transition for related concepts.