Anon, thanks for taking the time, care and trouble to post here. I have no doubts that anyone who'd never really understood the complex and difficult issues you're talking about will learn much from what you've contributed.

One question I'd like to ask, however. Why is the issue of attractiveness so important to you now you've transitioned ? and did you care so much about your looks when you were still inhabiting your previous identity ? (that's two questions!)

The reason I ask is because some of what you've said could (no doubt unfairly) be interpreted as suggesting that it is somehow a woman's role and/or responsibilty to be 'pretty', much more than the issue of looks is ever seen as important for men. That, to my mind, is a rather conservative view of sexual politics.