#these ARE humans these ARE individuals with hormones and sex organs and those who can carry children

[llycaons]

trying to listen to ancillary sword but it's going excruciatingly slow bc it's a sequel, and in fact I think the first sequel I'm listening to on audiobook. even very good sequels (which I expect this will be) will pepper in exposition and background info in the first chapter to catch up readers, which tend to take place in between lines of dialogue. I wouldn't mind except I always forget what was just said and have to go back and check, and it's comparatively much more difficult to rewind an audiobook to the right place than to glance back over a page. so I've been listening very very slowly aha. but I've finally gotten to ch2 and I'm glad I'm reading the sequel right away bc the story picks right up from the finale of the first book and I'm already intrigued by the new characters and entertained by the new plot direction

[genderkoolaid]

(different person than last anon) can you give us like actual scientific papers that "nonhumans" are real and not just ppl that need a lot of psychological help? bc like while gender + sex can be very diverse and change w the individual, species is extremely specific and thats why shit like making crossbreeds is so insanely hard and they usually end up infertile bc the genes arent meant to be combined. n also the only example i can think of of any other species having "i am not the species i was born as" thoughts is that one female monkey that was raised so close w people she thought she was a person and she would refuse to breed w any of her primate species bc of it. you would call that mental illness in that monkey because she cannot be a person in a monkey body, just like someone can't be a dog or angel or horse in a human body, so why do you not consider being "nonhuman" also a mental illness?

can you please explain about alterhumanity? I don’t mean to be negative, I don’t understand… “there are only two sexes” is wrong because biology knowledge we have today actually doesn’t support that. did modern taxonomy find out something similar about humans? that’s very interesting, I don’t know a lot about it! but if you do I’d love to read that research!

So I think "there are only two sexes" isn't the best example; the comparison is more like "people can't change their gender because gender is whats in your pants"

Yes, we can look at chromosomes and hormones and sexual organs, and that stuff is related to gender. But to say "gender/sex is a construct" does not mean "chromosomes/hormones/sex organs don't exist." Its pointing out that our relationship to those things is culturally dependent (I wouldn't say "unnatural" because humans making social constructs is natural).

Similarly, we do divide up species based on reproduction and common ancestors. But "humanity" is also a construct. What it means to be human & who is defined as human can and does change depending on our culture. Not only can some people be excluded from humanity (for example, people of color and neurodivergents), but some people believe they are spiritually nonhuman (whatever that means for them). Some people who have been rejected from humanity identify as alterhuman as a way of saying "you don't want me, then I don't want you" (voidpunk is related to this although not inherently alterhuman). Some people are delusional and identify with alterhumanity as a way of coping with their delusions (and also, yes, you can be self-aware about your delusions). Some people believe in reincarnation or alternate universes or have some other spiritual belief related to being nonhuman. Some people just feel like dogs and enjoy being a dog and it doesn't matter why because they just like it.

Honestly, the monkey does sound like a monkey-version of alterhuman, because (if I can get a little anthropomorphize-y on y'all), it sounds like she did not feel apart of "monkey culture." Obviously we can't know if monkeys have a concept of monkey-hood like we do with humanity, but if they did it would not be hard to imagine how a monkey raised with humans would feel more human than monkey. But regardless... we don't need other species to have alter-species-hood for the same reason we don't need snails to crossdress for trans people to exist. Other animals probably don't have the same complex. abstract social constructs we do.

Why can't someone be a horse in a human body? For the same reason someone can't be a man in a woman's body- because "science says"? Both trans-denial and alterhuman-denial emphasizes biology over sociological investigation, which leads people to just keep shouting "but science!!!!!!!!!!" at people who are more invested in questions of culture and constructs and what it means to be [man/woman/human] in society.

(Also, I'm kind of uncomfortable with how the first ask talks about mental illness. Specifically "person believes harmless weird thing, so they must need Psychological Help for their Wrong Thoughts")

[coolbeesbro]

Please share this post to get this information to those who need it!!!

In light of recent events, I compiled a list of resources for LGBT+ folk and more. Ranging from how to legally change name/gender on documents, links to Advocates for Trans Equality, Human Rights Campaign, and The Trevor Project websites. How to obtain bulk HRT injection supplies, legal self defense information, as well as a list of supplies for an emergency Grab and Go bag. Everything is below the cut! If there's anything you want to add, please share and add that information! Thank you everyone, and please stay safe!

ID Legal Name & Gender Change + Other Resources US:

Advocates for Trans Equality: ID Documents Center | A4TE

For those in the US looking to legally change their names/sex on documents, you might want to do this between now and January 20th. You never know what you can and can't do until it happens. There are fees for the change, but in some states there are wavers for lower income folk you can apply for as well.

Human Rights Campaign: Human Rights Campaign

Has resources reporting on government legislation that may or may not effect you, along with informative resources for all walks of life ranging between sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, religion, age and more.

The Trevor Project:  The Trevor Project

The Trevor Project is the leading suicide prevention and crisis intervention nonprofit organization for LGBTQ+ young people. We provide information & support to LGBTQ+ young people 24/7, all year round.

Plan B Contraceptive Info: Planned Parenthood

Fun fact for no reason in particular, Plan B has a shelf life of 4 years (when stored properly).

Bulk HRT Intramuscular Hormone Injection Supplies: 

25 Gage 1” Needles: $9.79 (100 pack)

100Pack 18Ga 1Inch/25mm Disposable Dispensing Lab Supplies Individually Sealed Packaging: Amazon.com  

18 Gage 1” Needles: $9.59 (100 pack)

Amazon.com: 100 Pack 18Ga 1 Inch Sterile Disposable Injection Needle with Cap for Scientific and Industrial Dispensing Needl Accessories

1ml Syringes: $14.99 (100 pack)

BH Supplies 1ml Luer Lock Tip Syringes (No Needle) - Sterile, Individually Wrapped

Sharps Container: $13.45 (3 pack), $19.95 (5 pack)

Amazon.com: Sharps Container for Home Use and Professional 1 Quart (3-Pack) by Alcedo | Biohazard Needle and Syringe Disposal

Total: 

With the 3 pack sharps container: $47.82

With the 5 pack sharps container: $54.32

These are the products I use for my HRT treatment. $47.82-$54.32 might seem like a lot off the bat, but to put it into perspective: I bought these needles and syringes 2 years ago and am only now starting to run low. I’ve had to buy the sharps containers throughout these times a total of 3 times.

For silly hypotheticals, say you need enough supplies to make it through 4 years, you would need to spend $68.74 for needles and syringes, and $40.35 for sharps containers. 

For Bandaids in Bulk: $9.99 (200 pack)

Amazon.com: Care Science Fabric Adhesive Bandages, 200 ct Bulk Assorted Sizes | Flexible + Breathable Protection Helps Prevent Infection for First Aid and Wound Care : Health & Household

Alcohol Wipes: $8.99 (100 count pack of 2)

OWELL Sterile Alcohol Prep Pads, Medium 2-Ply Medical Alcohol Pad for Cleaning Skin, First Aid Kit Alcohol Swabs, Individually Wrapped Alcohol Wipes, 100 Count, Pack of 2 Boxes

Once again, for silly hypotheticals, you need enough supplies to make it through 4 years, you would need to spend: $37.96

Legal Self Defense & Safety Information:

Things to know:

The act of self-defense must be proportionate to the danger, and the person defending themselves cannot be the initial aggressor (the first to threaten or use physical force). United States v. Peterson is often used to teach the self-defense doctrine. Other laws and regulations regarding self defense can differ between states, so I highly recommend researching the laws of your state. Stay informed and know your rights.

You don’t need a license to buy or own a can of pepper spray in the US. Different states have some regulations around them, but legally you can obtain pepper spray with no legal repercussions. 

Generally speaking, across America you’re allowed to carry a pocket knife with you that has a 2.5” blade. Once more, different states have different regulations on what you can and can’t have in public (mainly switch blades and daggers) that I suggest you look into first before you buy anything.

You don’t need a license to buy or own a taser in the US. You can even buy a 2 in one pepper spray and taser off Amazon for under $25.

Mentioned Items:

Smart Personal Safety Alarm: $39.95

Amazon.com: She’s Birdie - Birdie+ Smart Personal Safety Alarm for Women by Women–Loud Siren, Key Chain, 24/7 Live Rep, Emergency Alerts, Bluetooth Connection - 3 Month App Subscription Included (Lavender)

Pepper Spray: $9.99

SABRE Pepper Spray, Quick Release Keychain for Easy Carry and Fast Access, Finger Grip for More Accurate and Faster Aim, Maximum Police Strength OC Spray, 0.54 fl oz, Secure and Easy to Use Safety

Discrete Taser: $21.90

Amazon.com : Rechargeable Stun Guns Self-Defense with LED Flashlight,Rechargeable Stun Gun for Woman (Combination Suit 1)

Taser/Pepper Spray: $22.62

Amazon.com : SABRE Pepper Spray & 2-in-1 Stun Gun with Flashlight, Self Defense Kit, Fast Flip Top Safety, Finger Grip for Better & Faster Aim, Painful 1.60 µC Charge, 120 Lumen LED Light, Rechargeable, 0.54 fl oz

“Just in case” Grab & Go Bags:

Must Have:

Non-perishable foods like granola & protein bars. Canned things are good too, but bars are lighter in weight so you can pack more without having as much weight to carry.

A reusable bottle of water.

Personal hygiene products like:

 2 toothbrushes (It’s good to have a backup just in case)

Tooth paste

Dental floss

Q-tips 

Wet wipes

Deodorant

Shampoo & Conditioner (solid bars if possible, since it’s lighter and takes up less space)

Hair brush/Comb

Hair ties (if needed)

Nail clippers (can be versatile and used to cut through packaging and other smaller things if needed)

At least 1 washcloth

Pads/tampons (for those who may need it)

Chapstick 

Hand sanitizer 

Multiple pairs of clean underwear (if you can’t pack a change of clothes or shower regularly, wet wipes can help you clean up and clean underwear can be put on. I cannot emphasize it enough, this is a mandatory must have so you can avoid things like UTI’s and yeast infections!)

If you have room for it, 1 change of clothes as well. Multiple pairs of socks is good to have as well.

Copies of important documents (birth certificate, medical records, deeds etc.)

Bills (Small ones like ones and fives preferred)

Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen

Acetaminophen 

Antacids (like tums)

Caffeine pills (for those who need it)

First aid kit

Convenience Items:

Flashlight (Hand crank would be ideal)

Portable phone charger

ear buds/headset

Notepad, Pen/Pencil/Marker

Work gloves

Rain poncho/coat

Sunblock

Bug spray

Matches

A lighter

[zerogate]

Two means have been discovered to produce depression in laboratory animals: uncontrollable punishment and isolation. Put an animal in a cage by himself, separated from his nest-mates, and he will lose interest in food and sex, have trouble sleeping, and undergo a muddling of the brain.

[...]

Tampering with an individual’s bonds to the larger social organism can have powerful consequences. In humans, feeling you’re unwanted can stunt your growth. The flow of growth hormones, according to recent research, is affected strongly by “psychosocial factors.” Monkeys taken away from their families and friends experience blockage of the arteries and heart disease. On the other hand, rabbits who are petted and hugged live 60 percent longer than those who have not received such attention.

[...]

When their mates die, male hamsters stop eating and sleeping, and often succumb to death themselves. They are not alone. A British study indicated that in the first year after a wife dies, a widower has a 40 percent greater risk of death. In another study at New York’s Mount Sinai School of Medicine, men who had lost wives to breast cancer experienced a sharp drop in the activity of their immune system one to two months after the loss. A survey of seven thousand inhabitants of Alameda County, California, showed that “isolation and the lack of social and community ties” opened the door to illness and an early demise.

-- Howard Bloom, The Lucifer Principle: A Scientific Expedition into the Forces of History

[intersexcat-tboy]

Examining Miscalculations and Intersex Definitions Regarding Sax's .018% Claim

The debate surrounding the definition of intersex and their characteristics has been a topic of debate within various professional fields, advocacy organizations, and studies for decades. Amidst this discourse includes a response from Dr. Leonard Sax, who claims to provide a "clinician's standpoint" despite lacking specialized expertise in these conditions, having only served as a primary care physician.

However, his arguments stand in stark contrast to those of Fausto-Sterling, a world-renowned professor of biology and gender studies. Furthermore, they diverge significantly from the consensus among major health associations, medical organizations, intersex rights groups, and human rights organizations.

Leading/Major Health Associations

The definition of intersex is resoundingly clear among leading health associations. The World Health Organization recognizes that intersex individuals are those "born with natural variations in biological or physiological characteristics, including sexual anatomy, reproductive organs, and/or chromosomal patterns that do not fit traditional definitions of male or female." Similarly, the National Institute of Health acknowledges individuals who are "born with, or who develop naturally in puberty, biological sex characteristics that are not typically male or female." The National Health Services emphasizes that intersex "involves genes, hormones, and reproductive organs, including genitals, and a person's physical sex development can differ internally, externally, or both."

Major/Leading Medical Associations

Major medical associations provide crucial insights into the understanding of intersex variations. The The American Medical Association adopts a broader definition, recognizing those with "a congenital condition with inconsistent chromosomal, gonadal, or anatomic sex development." Likewise, the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (PDF - which trains and accredits physicians in Australia and New Zealand) recognizes the significance of "congenital variations in a person's physical, hormonal, or genetic characteristics that do not match strict medical definitions of female or male sex." Additionally, the Center for Disease Control highlights the concept of "variations in physical sex characteristics, including anatomy, hormones, chromosomes, or other traits, that differ from expectations generally associated with male and female bodies." The International Symposium on Disorders of Sex Development notes there to be over 40 conditions

Leading Intersex Rights organizations

Intersex rights organizations, including Intersex Human Rights of Australia and Brújula Intersexual in Mexico, explicitly disagree with Dr. Leonard Sax's narrow definition of intersex individuals. They align themselves with more inclusive perspectives. For instance, Intersex Society of North America (working with) InterACT still use Fausto-Sterling's estimates over a decade later. Intersex Campaign for Equality in the United States also uses Sterling's estimates, believing the figures may even be higher than 2%. Intersex Asia and Intersex Russia both use estimates ranging from 0.5%-1.7%, Russia even including PCOS by name (which would be higher than 1.7%). InterAction from Germany's Intersex Rights suggests a range of 1-2 individuals per 100 births, highlighting how the medical community tries to "keep the frequency as extremely low as possible". Stop Intersex Mutilations from France posits there are over 40 variations and also suggests the prevalence might surpass 1.7%. Additionally, OII Europe presents prevalence estimates of 1:200 and 1.7% in their materials.

These organizations stress that intersex variations encompass a wide spectrum of biological and physiological characteristics beyond chromosomal ambiguity, challenging Sax's limited viewpoint.

Major human rights organizations

unequivocally support intersex individuals. The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights emphasizes that intersex individuals are "born with a wide range of natural variations in their sex characteristics that don't fit the typical definition of male or female." Amnesty International notes that intersex encompasses "a wide umbrella of natural variations" (1.7%) and human rights abuses faced by intersex individuals. Human Rights Watch and the Human Rights Campaign underline the broader definition of intersex, acknowledging variations in genitalia, chromosomes, gonads, internal sex organs, hormone production, hormone response, and secondary sex traits, noting 1.7% as a prevalence rate. These human rights organizations underscore the importance of acknowledging intersex variations to ensure the protection of human rights.

Other Medical Orgs

Additional medical organizations like the Société Internationale d'Urologie (PDF) (an international professional organization dedicated to the field of urology), and the National Society of Genetic Counselors (uses 1.7%, says sex is not based on chromosones) adopt definitions that align with broader medical perspectives, they recognize the complexities of intersex conditions and advocate for understanding beyond binary definitions. Furthermore, the Endocrine Society acknowledges CAH to be part of a continuum of disorders, acknowledging the variations in severity.

Examining oversights: Discrepancies in Calculations

What's interesting is that even within Sax's own criteria, defining intersex as when 'the chromosomal sex is inconsistent with phenotypic sex, in which the phenotype is not classifiable as either male or female,' there's an evident inclusion of conditions like 'sex reversals' and ambiguous genitalia. However, Sax overlooks contributors such as mixed gonadal dysgenesis (MGD), as well as Swyer Syndrome and de la Chapelle syndrome, despite the former being the second leading cause of ambiguous genitalia.

Let's do the math

CAH (.0077) + CAIS (.0076) = .0153

+ ovotestes (.0012) + Idiopathic (.0009) = .0174

+ PAIS (.00076) = .01816

Fausto-Sterling includes de la Chapelle syndrome and MGD, although not as separate statistics. MGD is amalgamated with Turner's statistics, and de la Chapelle syndrome is grouped with other sex chromosome variations. However, Sax completely disregards these conditions when he discards several categories from his estimates, effectively throwing out qualifying numbers and ignoring their potential impact on the overall prevalence of intersex conditions.

While newer studies suggest a prevalence of .004 for de la Chappelle, we also have to consider that neither study includes Swyer Syndrome (+.00125), and PAIS is now recognized as at least as common as CAIS, with the latter being less likely to cause ambiguous genitalia at birth, and more likely to be identified in childhood.

The leading causes of ambiguous genitalia are CAH (.0077), PAIS (.00076), MGD (.005) and ovotestes (.0012), which places us just below (.01466) the ambiguous genitalia observed at birth from Mothers And Babies Reports from Australia, if we account for 15% (0.0006) of de la Chapelle births having ambiguous genitalia, it brings ambiguous genitalia at birth to a total of .015% found before.

If he includes CAH, PAIS (since CAIS is often not identified until childhood), ovotestes and idiopathic causes under his definition of intersex, it leaves us with .005% of births with ambiguous genitalia without a possible causing condition. This gap can easily be explained by his exclusion of MGD and de la Chapelle syndrome.

If we count only CAIS (.0076) and CAH (.0077), and the newer study estimate of de la Chapelle (.004), it already surpasses Sax's estimate at .0193.

With the addition of ovotestes (.0012), idiopathic (.0009), MGD (.005) and Sawyer syndrome (.00125) it brings us to .022%. With older estimates of PAIS (.00076), .0234%; with newer ones (.0076), just a bit above .03%, which is over two thirds an increase of Sax's original estimate.

There is overwhelming support for a more comprehensive understanding of intersex variations that emphasizes the importance of respecting a wide range of biological and physiological characteristics beyond mere genital and chromosomal definitions. This approach is essential in safeguarding human rights and ensuring equitable treatment for all individuals

TLDR;;

The collective stance of experts and organizations, spanning from health associations to human rights advocates, sharply contrasts with the limited definition created by Sax. He claims to know other clinicians' thoughts, without any evidence to back it up. As stated previously, he also lacks education and clinical experience on intersex individuals, he is a family doctor.

[anamericangirl]

(1/2) So to that one anon. First of all, yes the removal of completely healthy tissue and Frankenstein-esk construction of some gross approximation of human genitals is, was, and always will be, mutilation. Second. Yes, despite the fact that you losers continually try derail conversation so that no one notices, There are children receiving procedures such as double mastectomies (literally just google Chloe cole. Or that creepy plastic surgeon who was bragging on tik tok about doing surgeries on minors and even telling these kids and their families to contact her if they can’t get the surgeries they want. There are more verifiable examples I could provide here, but I’m not going to write you a book of examples since you probably won’t listen anyway. Even if you say “those are isolated cases” it doesn’t make it any less disturbing) and lastly there have been many videos of doctors ( a lot of whom advocate for “gender affirming healthcare” and or hold high positions on boards and in organizations for these types of things) admitting that puberty blockers are not as safe and effortlessly reversible as y’all would have people believe, but rather causes a lot of long term damage such as infertility, losing the ability to ever achieve an orgasm, and the underdevelopment of sexual organs such as a micro penis in boys. Not to mention the other long term risks such as osteoporosis, vision issues, and brain swelling. And this isn’t me spitting this information after some convoluted game of telephone. You can watch videos of respected board certified doctors saying these things directly. A lot of this is info that comes directly from the fda, nhs, and literally organizations for trans “healthcare” a lot of which are specifically targeting children. And yet the argument is always “you shouldn’t prevent anyone no matter how young from accessing blockers, hormones or surgery! Stop talking about the damages these things cause you bigot! They need these things or they’ll kill themselves!” No one ever wants to actually treat these things. When you just go: surgery! hormones! etc, you are effectively putting a band aid over a gunshot wound. You don’t get to the root of the problem which is ultimately, weather you like it or not, a form of mental illness and or disorders. These people should in no way be demonized for being mentally Ill. It’s not their fault and they would never have asked for this but they need true psychiatric help. You wouldn’t give a girl with an eating disorder a gastric bypass if she said she was going to kill herself, but that’s effectively what we do to these people. The problem is that it’s never going to be enough. No amount of surgery or any other of these treatments will ever make it okay, not because “society is bigoted and won’t affirm me!” It’s because the individuals themselves feels a crazy amount of cognitive dissonance in their every waking moment, because they are living a lie and denying reality. There are perfectly happy trans adults like Blaire white and Marcus dib who are secure and confident in their transitions. Why? Because they have accepted the objective reality of their biology while just enjoying living their lives as the opposite sex. Giving irreversible “solutions” to children who simply enjoy activities society has decided doesn’t align with their sex, or who feel uncomfortable in their bodies at the single most uncomfortable time in a human life (childhood and adolescence, where you start from scratch attempting to figure out both the world and yourself, and just when you start to have it figured out, your body goes through all these changes you cant control and didn’t ask for) it’s bound to cause a lot of problems. The thing is though, statistically, (and feel free to fact check me on this one) over 80% of children who at some point experience gender dysphoria are rid of it completely upon finishing puberty. And the amount of trans adults who have some other underlying mental issues or are mentally ill in some way and don’t actually experience true dysphoria is astounding.

(2/2) cont. Depression, anxiety, body dysmorphia, anorexia, asd, add, adhd, the list goes on. The statistics don’t lie, the amount of people who identify as trans and also have some other mental health issues is staggering. I have to say though, (putting aside the fact that they won’t believe me) I truly bear no Ill will towards these people. Living with mental health problems is hellish. I wouldn’t wish that upon anyone. In fact I find it disgusting that the medical system and such a large portion of society today (at least in the west) has just been blindly affirming them to the detriment of these individuals and the people around them. Medicalizing people for life is not the near perfect solution it’s touted as. Medically transitioning is not a “Try it and see how you feel,and if you don’t like it we can just pump you with more hormones and everything will be as it was” situation. That doesn’t solve anything. No one is born in the wrong body. That’s not the problem. The problem is that their minds are constantly at war with reality and they are suffering as a result. People not affirming their delusions isn’t what’s truly causing that. (Also big apology to whoever runs this blog, didn’t expect this to be this long)

No apology necessary because you are absolutely correct and said it better than I could! Anyone spouting out lines like "puberty blockers are completely reversible! No one regrets transition! Minors aren't getting surgery!" is advertising the fact that they've never researched this issue in their life (certainly not both sides) and are just repeating talking points they've heard.

Because the fact is there are several testimonies of people who received these surgeries as minors and being "isolated incidences" doesn't mean they don't count. It doesn't mean others haven't experienced this. It doesn't mean medically transitioning children is ok.

And while they want to talk about puberty blockers being reversible they don't have anything to say about the effects of those puberty blockers, big ones like infertility, not being reversible.

The very medical professionals they tell us to listen to are the ones confirming these things things so they're telling us to listen to people they obviously haven't taken the time to listen to thoroughly.

People shouldn't be demonized for having a mental illness and feeling like they are in the wrong body, but those feelings shouldn't be affirmed by doctors either, especially when those people are children. Even if the child really does have gender dysphoria you do more harm than good by affirming these ideas and mutilating their bodies, which, as you pointed out, does happen, whether people want to admit it or not.

[ardentem-iustitia]

The mpreg definition is pretty simple. It’s a short form that stands for “male pregnancy.” The simple version of that is simply “dudes getting pregnant.” Most often, people refer to (presumably) cisgender men getting pregnant. This isn’t scientifically possible at this point in time. Some people have speculated on whether it would be possible or not. The general conclusion is that a placenta would have to attach to a major organ like the stomach. Subsequent separation would mean that the guy would likely bleed out. And that’s just the start of the problems. So, long story short, “real” mpreg isn’t possible. And there’s a particular question: Why would anyone want it to be? Obviously, there are people who enjoy mpreg stories. So we could speculate that there are maybe some people who might want to test it out. Humanity’s fascination with the idea of a cisgender male human becoming pregnant runs deeper than the surface level, though. There’s something about it that intrigues us. Maybe because it’s weird, or maybe because it seems to “invert” nature. Why do I say that? Well, mpreg actually shows up all over the place. It’s most freely expressed in fandom and the MM romance genre, but it definitely exists out side of those spaces. Examples include the 1994 Arnold Schwazenegger flick Junior (a comedy, in which Arnie plays a scientist who experiments on himself). Another is The Fairly Odd Parents, in which Cosmo is the one to do the childbearing duties. More recently, the Netflix series Big Mouth featured one of the male hormone monsters getting pregnant. The most prominent example is the Norse trickster god Loki. Famously, Loki transforms into a mare and becomes pregnant, giving birth to Odin’s eight-legged horse Sleipnir. That’s not necessarily “mpreg,” since Loki is a female horse at the time. We can argue this tale features mpreg, but in a weird gender-bendy sort of way. A clearer example is the variant of a myth that say Loki himself gave birth to Hel, Fenrir, and Jorgumandr. In this version of the myth, Loki becomes impregnated after eating the giant Angrboda’s heart. In the natural world, true mpreg does actually occur. It’s limited to about two species: Seahorses, sea dragons, and other pipefish. Seahorses are probably the most infamous mpreg critters. The female seahorse uses an ovipositor to deposit eggs in the male seahorse’s pouch. The male seahorse then fertilizes the eggs and carries the young until they hatch. As I noted above, what most people think of as mpreg is a cisgender man becoming pregnant. This is a scientific impossibility, so most mpreg stories deal with sci-fi tech, aliens, or magic to make it possible. There are a couple of “real life” ways mpreg can and does happen. The first, and most common, is trans men. Trans men are XX phenotypical, which often means they have ovaries and uteri. Some trans men choose not to have these organs removed. Testosterone doesn’t always inhibit ovarian function either. The result? Some trans men can get pregnant—and some do indeed get pregnant. Some intersex individuals may also be capable of becoming pregnant, even if they identify as men. In some cases, intersex individuals may appear “as” cisgender men, but they actually have functioning ovaries and uteri. Intersex conditions are relatively common, and there are cases where someone with a “male” phenotype functions as “female.” What all this means is that nature and biological sex categories are a lot more complicated than we like to admit. In that sense, mpreg is actually something that can happen. In fantasy stories, it might be magic or a curse, or it could be a fantastical species. In sci-fi, it could be some super-advanced technology. Omegaverse is often a specialized version of mpreg that explains the possibility through the “secondary sex” of alpha, beta, or omega. People might still be “male” and “female,” but whether they’re alpha, beta, or omega determines if they can bear children. Eggpreg is another specific subset of mpreg, which features a male character being impregnated by having an egg “laid” insid

i read this whole thing WHILE impregnating my boyfriend thanks for the knowledge !

[autumn-mythos]

Homoarachnids!

Kingdom: Cryptidae

...

Genus: Homoarachnid

Homoarachnid is such a cool genus, in my opinion! It houses three intelligent species: Spinnets, Stinglings, and Acarites! They're all a bit rare, so no images today. You're welcome, arachnophobes! I'll get into the nitty gritty of each species in a bit, but I should cover the facts that apply to all three!

Similarities between species!

Homoarachnids are first notable for their eyes! They have large, monotone eyes right where you'd expect them to be, but with the addition of two much smaller eyes in the lower-outer corner of their larger eyes, with the orientation depending on what side the eyes are on! Bottom left corner for left eyes, Bottom right corner for right eyes! Despite the extra eyes, their eyesight is very poor, and often feel around with their extra limbs or use their hairs to sense vibrations. Speaking of extra limbs, they have extra limbs! Each species of homoarachnid have extra limbs of varying size depending on the species, each of these limbs sprouting from their back. These limbs seem to be more for grappling rather than movement! Each limb is insectoid, and covered in an exoskeleton, with colors matching a darker but more saturated version of the individual's skin. Female homoarachnids tend to be larger and more colorful (Especially apparent for spinnets), which is a good way to tell the sexes apart! They don't experience sexual dimorphism the way mammals and humans do. Bugs don't have titties! Otherwise, they look similar to other humanoid species. They have fangs though and those are pretty freaky. Very venomous! Don't like it! Spinnet and Stingling venom is particularly dangerous, but it's very dependent on the subspecies...

Their mating and romantic habits are quite interesting! Most (But not all!) homoarachnids exhibit homosexual behavior, both sexually and romantically. The reason for this is that males and females get flushed with hormones that cause violent reactions to each other after mating! Most people don't want to get eaten after making children. Most people. I don't judge! But yeah! Most breed out of necessity rather than out of passion. This still isn't true for every single one, though! People have their preferences.

Spinnets

Homoarachnia Aranea (NOT A HOMESTUCK REFERENCE)

You know spiders? These are spiders. They have the largest extra limbs of the genus, and are the only ones who can use the limbs to walk around! They look kind of silly when they do that, though. Their arms and legs dangling around...

Anyway, unique to spinnets, they can create webbing! Within their mouth is a spinneret, an organ that produces silk! Very difficult to break, and a bit too sticky for comfort. The silk becomes less sticky as it becomes less fresh, and a lot of spinnets take up knitting as a hobby using their own silk! A lot of people find it too disturbing to wear a sweater that came out of an actual living breathing person, though...

Their venom is terrifying! Depending on the subspecies of spinnet, though. Smaller species tend to have much worse venom, that can occasionally cause severe paralysis or even death! Sometimes it turns organs into a soupy substance, which is NOT an image I like having in my brain!

Stinglings

Homoarachnia Serket (I know I'm not helping the homestuck accusations but it's the name of an egyptian goddess with scorpion theming I promise)

Scorpion people! They have big scorpion tails with venom. I'm not sure there's much to be said about these guys. They have the shortest legs out of the homoarachnid genus, that don't have much use. They can't even climb with them... Great for hugging though! And also great for being completely helpless to being repeatedly stabbed by a giant stinger! They're normally chill though. They only do that sort of thing to their food. I hope you're not food.

Acarites

Homoarachnia Acari

Mite people! These dudes are tiny and have itty bitty mouths. These guys are like the size of human toddlers Not much in terms of venom, and have medium size extra limbs. They kinda just, suck on their food. Not much to say about these guys at all except for the fact that they spread disease real quickly...

[gabapple]

I made this Pride Month primer for work, and thought y'all might enjoy it, too. It's meant to be just the VERY BASICS, and does not cover everything. Feel free to ask questions, though I'm not an authority. There are lots of other great resources out there!

Transcript below:

Pride Primer

History:

Pride started as The Stonewall Riots, which began on June 28, 1969 when New York City police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay club located in Greenwich Village in New York City. This served as a catalyst for the gay rights movement in the United States and around the world. (from History.com)

Purpose:

Pride is a protest against those that oppose the rights and freedoms of the LGBTQIA+ community

Pride is a statement: LGBTQIA+ people have always existed and always will

Pride is a reminder to never take our rights for granted

Pride is an opportunity to educate and liberate

LGBTQIA+ Definition

Lesbian: Women who are exclusively attracted, sexually or romantically, to other women.

Gay: Umbrella term for homosexuality and/or

men who are exclusively attracted, sexually or romantically, to other men.

Bi: A person who is attracted, romantically or sexually, to two or more genders.

Trans: A person whose gender identity does not match with the gender assigned at birth.

Queer: Umbrella term for anyone whose sexual or gender identity does not match established heterosexual norms.

Intersex: A person born with a combination of male and female biological traits.

Ace: Umbrella term for a person who does not experience sexual and/or romantic attraction to anyone.

Plus: A catch-all for all other related identities in the community.

Sex and Gender

Biology:

Sex is generally defined as male, female, or intersex, dependent on chromosomes, hormones, and reproductive organs. As complex, biological organisms, humans can and do exist anywhere within these metrics. Intersex individuals are as common as being a natural red head. For example, PCOS is a genetic condition that is considered intersex, as it affects a person’s hormones in development. Sex is biological, gender is a social construct, and varies from culture to culture.

Identity:

CIS: A person whose identity matches their assigned gender at birth

Non-Binary: An umbrella term for someone whose identity does not fit in the male/female gender binary

Trans: A person whose identity does not match their assigned gender at birth; they may or may not take steps to physically match said identity

Everyone has pronouns. Some common ones are: he/him, she/her, and they/them.

Attraction

Sexual and Romantic

Attraction has two components, sexual and romantic. A person can be any combination, and some of the most common types are:

Heterosexual/Heteromantic: exclusively attracted to the opposite gender

Homosexual/Homoromantic: exclusively attracted to the same gender

Bisexual/Biromantic: exclusively attracted to two or more genders

Pansexual/Panromantic: attraction without regard to gender

Demisexual/Demiromantic: attraction ONLY with a strong emotional bond

Asexual/Aromantic: no attraction for any gender, no interest in a romantic relationship

For example, a person may be asexual/heteromantic, meaning that they have little to no desire for sex, but are interested/open to a romantic relationship with someone of the opposite gender.

[godsprettiestprincess]

Sorry for making up a fantasy au hell culture. As if it’s my fault.

Demons are a very resilient species with huge variation in gender + the biological traits that come with it and take great joy in things that trigger hormones like adrenaline. This plus a natural affinity for what we call ‘body magic’ (spells and such that deal with living things, shapeshifting, necromancy, most healing magic, etc) lends itself to a culture that embraces both the grotesque and extreme. A portrait of a woman with her ribcage or organs exposed may very well be greeted with the same attitude as a human culture would treat a portrait of a woman with too much cleavage — a bit raunchy, but all in good fun.

This isn’t to say demonic culture doesn’t have taboos, however — in fact their reactions to what they consider to be reprehensible are much more extreme than in many human or angel cultures. Hell’s capital city, Pandemonium, has for many years had comparatively extreme penalties for those who force their attentions where they aren’t wanted, or on those who can’t consent like children or animals. Depending on the case and the number of previous reports against the person the punishments can range anywhere from mandatory public service to exile or death, and the common opinion has followed suit. (Interesting note here that about 60% of individuals who are charged and punished for these crimes are non-demon foreigners not native to Hell. It’s theorized this is because of the cities reputation for being lawless — despite the numerous protections and regulations in place for sex workers and drug dealers)

This aforementioned reputation/stereotype is believed to be primarily based on the differences in class structure between demon and human/angel cultures, as on the surface the hedonism rampant in demon society appears to match up with the low-income red light districts in human/angel cities. However this is purely surface level, as the aforementioned protections given to those who fund such activities hint at; demons do no gamble and drink and work at brothels because they have no work or other options as is true in places like Eden, but the opposite. They have time to because their income, healthcare, and food is guaranteed, every citizen receiving a standardized wage every two weeks. This also means, as the XXXX tax records show that though there is a class divide, it is small and poverty is practically nonexistent. Debt and theft are likewise laughable, as few want for anything, and though murder and assault are technically illegal, I found many working class demons willing to laugh off punches thrown as long as the assailant pays their tab (an act of good will/admittance of guilt) or for their resurrection/repair than press charges and spend time dealing with hellish bureaucracy.

(Though I was unable to verify any, i heard many stories along the lines of someone’s cousin foolishly spending all their money and being unable to join their friends on a night out, only to have all their drinks and bets covered by said friends. Whether or not any of these stories are true I feel is irrelevant, for their existence I think speaks to the concept that truly sets demonic society apart from the rest: that pleasure and indulgence is a right, and being deprived of it is akin to being denied food and water.)

[sing-me-under]

Recently I’ve been thinking about ABO-verse and about how sexuality and gender would theoretically work. I’ve been reading a lot of Platonic ABO recently, and I’ve noticed some trends (or lack thereof) in the worldbuilding.

For starters, the worlds of ABO are typically parallel to real world society except they have strict gender essentialism regarding the secondary genders. Real world Humans are not particularly sexually dimorphic, and honestly, male/female humans are so similar that they’re basically a one circle diagram with only a few key differences relating to their reproductive organs and some mild fat distributions. Gender identity is considered a social construct because so much of what is considered male/female isn’t actually biologically ingrained as much as it is socially (ex. girls like dolls, boys like trucks). While the same holds true for male/female in ABO, the secondary genders are truly distinct in that they are strongly driven by easily defined sets of instincts.

I feel like because of how non-primate-like ABO humans are (often being portrayed with characteristics of canines, rabbits, or birds), they’re not exactly beholden to the same biological standards of real life mammals. Biologically, I like to think that they’re their own weird group like platypus. The science of an ABO verse is bullshit anyway, so I might as well go for it.

This is all going to be under the assumption that Beta is its own gender and not just baseline human/“not an alpha/omega”. Betas have their own instincts separate from alphas and omega and their own biological role in their packs.

Also, if I were to write an ABO-verse, I’d probably have all humans be intersex with an emphasis on certain reproductive parts and hormones. It’s kind of almost impossible to distinguish between female and male children in any way, but it is somewhat possible and these weird instinct-driven humans have more or less developed a sense for guessing that is more accurate than the supposed 60% accuracy of real world humans. The primary genders don’t become more defined until puberty. (The secondary genders don’t physically affect appearance, just reproductive parts and instincts.) Anyway, in this world, betas, alpha males, and omega females’ nonproductive parts sorta remain wholly defunct, like a tailbone, meanwhile alpha females and omega males continue to develop both sets with an emphasis on their secondary gender. There’d also be a pretty equal percentage of each population. 50/50 male/female (give or take the genuinely intersex/asex individuals because they do exist irl). There’s also an equal chance of presenting as alpha, beta, or omega for either gender, although there have been studies pointing to a possible link to genetics affecting that percentage (like the that of a twin having twins).

When it comes to the topic of transgender in ABO-verse, I feel like the secondary genders would be very similar to like clownfish sex changes or something. Humans can change their secondary designation in the right conditions in very rare situations (more common in very very small communities where the demographics are skewed against or towards one secondary gender). With modern science, it’s perfectly possible to replicate those conditions. The major transgender social movements are based on the secondary genders and the right to transition designations (and also laws against forcefully changing someone’s designation, especially for parents who are disappointed in their children’s presentation). Maybe mtf or ftm trans folk still exist, but the boy/girl aspect of society isn’t as strongly enforced as irl so it’s more of an aesthetic things like eye color or height. If anything, non-binary would be a far more common gender identity.

Moving on from that, I think sexuality should be on a spectrum of “attracted to a person you theoretically could make babies with” to “attracted to someone you cannot”. So heterosexuality would be like an alpha male can be attracted to basically anyone except another alpha male or a beta female, and homosexuality would be like a beta female attracted to another beta female or omega female. Anyone who is sexually attracted to specific gender combinations would be more like “my type is blond girls” rather than “I’m only into girls”. The “necessary attraction to procreate” problem with the modern perception of sexuality would definitely carry over into ABO.

Anyway. That’s my take on worldbuilding for ABO.

[evolveonline]

Embracing Transgender Rights: A Pathway to Equality and Inclusion

Introduction

In recent years, the fight for transgender rights has gained significant traction worldwide. As we strive to create a more inclusive society, it is imperative to understand and support the rights of transgender individuals. This blog post aims to shed light on the importance of transgender rights and explore the key aspects of this crucial movement.

Understanding Transgender Identity

To begin, it is essential to grasp the concept of transgender identity. Transgender individuals are those whose gender identity does not align with the sex assigned to them at birth. They may undergo social, medical, or legal transitions to express their true gender identity. This journey is deeply personal and often filled with challenges and discrimination.

The Importance of Transgender Rights

Transgender rights are an integral part of the broader fight for human rights. Upholding these rights is crucial for creating a society that values and respects the dignity of every individual, regardless of their gender identity. Here are some key reasons why transgender rights matter:

Equality: Transgender rights promote the principle of equality, ensuring that transgender individuals have the same fundamental rights and opportunities as cisgender individuals. It is essential to dismantle discrimination and create a level playing field for everyone.

Non-Discrimination: Transgender rights advocate for laws and policies that protect individuals from discrimination based on their gender identity. This includes protection in employment, housing, healthcare, education, and public services.

Health and Well-being: Access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right for all individuals. Transgender rights encompass ensuring that transgender individuals have access to gender-affirming healthcare, mental health support, and hormone therapy. This contributes to their overall well-being and quality of life.

Legal Recognition: Legal recognition of transgender individuals' gender identity is vital. This includes the ability to change their name, gender marker, and official documents without undue barriers. It helps transgender individuals navigate daily life with dignity and respect.

Safety and Protection: Transgender individuals face a disproportionately high risk of violence, harassment, and hate crimes. Transgender rights involve implementing policies and laws that enhance their safety, protection, and access to justice.

Challenges and Progress

Despite the growing awareness and support for transgender rights, numerous challenges persist. Some of these challenges include societal prejudice, lack of understanding, and legal barriers. However, there have been significant strides in the fight for transgender rights in recent years.

Many countries have implemented legislation to protect transgender rights, including laws against discrimination and legal recognition of gender identity. Furthermore, increased media visibility and transgender representation have helped educate and foster empathy within society.

Supporting Transgender Rights

As allies, we play a crucial role in supporting transgender rights. Here are some ways we can contribute to this movement:

Education and Awareness: Educate yourself about transgender issues, terminologies, and experiences. Share your knowledge with others to foster understanding and combat misconceptions.

Advocacy and Activism: Support organizations and activists advocating for transgender rights. Attend rallies, sign petitions, and engage in online discussions to raise awareness and demand change.

Inclusive Language and Practices: Use inclusive language that respects individuals' gender identities. Promote inclusive practices in your workplace, school, or community, creating spaces that are safe and affirming for everyone.

Vote and Lobby for Change: Support political candidates who prioritise transgender rights. Engage in advocacy efforts to encourage policymakers to enact inclusive policies and legislation.

Be a Supportive Ally: Offer support to transgender individuals in your life. Validate their experiences, listen actively, and stand up against discrimination or prejudice you witness.

Conclusion

Transgender rights are an essential component of the broader movement for equality and social justice. By recognising and supporting transgender rights, we can create a society that celebrates diversity

[trash-and-trash-accessories]

Discourse around intersex topics is so fucking cursed almost every time but just to be super clear:

The boundaries of what constitutes "Intersex" are extremely blurry and vary depending on the researcher and medical provider. There is no scholarly consensus on what conditions constitute intersex conditions.

Initially it referred mostly to those with undifferentiated genitalia or those with both sets of genitalia or some combination of primary sex characteristics discordant with the two sex model. But it's clear based on human physiology that there are other people whose sex is undifferentiated, even if their genitals are more in line with our binary understanding. So other chromosomal abnormalities were added. Then other chromosomal abnormalities were observed as testing increased, so XY females and other chromosomal disorders were added to intersex conditions. Then the definition expanded to what have sometimes been called "disorders of sexual development" such as disorders causing a micro penis, or an abnormal puberty, or abnormal secondary sex characteristic development. Because science is a process, definitions are constantly being debated and altered to reflect current research and consensus.

There are scientists who define PCOS as an intersex condition.

Hypogonadic conditions such as Kallmann Syndrome and HH are sometimes defined as intersex conditions. Often they are considered intersex in XY individuals but not XX individuals (amab and afab are largely useless in the discussion of this condition, I'm not using XX and XY as dogwhistles), because the symptoms (which untreated cause a lack of sexual development) are feminizing by modern beauty standards (women as hairless and childlike, along with painful sexual dysfunction). But because the male presentation of a micro penis (in many but not all cases) is more striking and shocking to doctors, only the XYs are labeled intersex while the XXs suffering from a lack of sexual function that can be painful, infertility, and severe osteoporosis if untreated with HRT can go fuck themselves. But of course, there isn't consensus on that either. Some researchers consider it an intersex condition regardless of chromosomes, because without treatment, people who have it are largely undifferentiated, they don't develop secondary sex characteristics at all.

Is this intersex? It's impossible to form consensus because it's complicated. People with HH can live mostly normal lives if they have access to appropriate HRT, especially if they can supplement both hormones as they see fit. Is this disqualifying?

Again, there is no consensus.

But the thing is, people adopting the identity of intersex without diagnosis, based on vibes, does bother a lot of intersex people with more visible presentations or physiology that affects their life.

The conversation around PCOS and conditions like hypogonadism in males, is that the presentations of these conditions along with conditions like Turner Syndrome, is that the presentation of these disorders does often lead to a person who is visibly androgynous. It can be difficult for people to immediately clock their biological sex. This automatically others them from the sex binary, which is the dominant model and for some reason the way we organize society. This means that they are otherized by their sex characteristics.

So is an intersex conditioned defined medically as differences in sexual development, or is it defined socially by otherization from the sex binary?

There is much debate.

People who have these highly visible differences which otherize them from the sex binary calling themselves intersex makes perfect sense using the social model. And that perception is rooted in their bodies, their physical realities.

So to me, calling PCOS or hypogonadism intersex conditions is perfectly reasonable, on a personal level, if someone in an otherized body chooses to identify that way. But it's very important to me that this label isn't forced on anyone. I think many people with these kinds of weird bodies don't identify that way. And shouldn't have to.

This is all so much more complicated than discourse can capture.

[she-is-ovarit]

Easiest first, biology cares about what is useful to biology

What do you mean by this? Biology is the study of living organisms. As researchers, our findings or results are not based on what is useful to the scientific field. This would fall under data manipulation. If you are referring to scientists in the field being motivated to study certain things at certain points in time based on windows of opportunity, I would agree. However, this still doesn't influence what is, such as the inheritance of the SRY gene being the determining factor of sex.

Your definition of sex has no value to the field of biology--it ties it to one thing which fails to adequately describe much at all.

This isn't my personal opinion or definition.

"The gene SRY (sex determining region of the Y), located at the distal region of the short arm of the Y chromosome, is necessary for male sex determination in mammals. SRY initiates the cascade of steps necessary to form a testis from an undifferentiated gonad." 

This is foundational understanding in biology for mammals. This is akin to painters understanding that combining yellow and blue makes green.

You never answered the purpose of this definition, why it is more useful (yes, in the field of biology) than other definitions.

What do you mean by "useful", then, if not referring to societal use? Why is it useful in the field of biology? I suppose because this discovery contributes to scientific knowledge and our understanding of biological sex. I'm not sure how else to answer this question because as I previously stated, science doesn't consider discovery from the lens of "is this useful? If not, it's not real". This isn't a debate of scientific opinion, this is an established and accepted foundation in biology much like the law of thermodynamics in physics is understood as rudimentary knowledge to the field.

Furthermore, your argument of what about those who have lost a limb, also has little bearing. If you say "people only ever have two legs" and someone points out a person who has less or more. You're wrong. Dismissing outliers is for convenience, but it doesn't make it reality.

This just... isn't true and is just unanchored. Someone pointing out the existence of an individual person born without two legs is not evidence that humans as a species as a whole are not bipedal. Would you say that snakes as a species are legged serpents if due to a medical anomaly one sprouted a small leg on its forehead? The application of a social constructivist view to everything is the same technique climate change denialists and Creationists arguing against evolution use.

Sex isn't binary because of the complex processes involved--what ultimately makes someone male and female depends greatly on hormone washes in the womb, and the types and amount can vary from a number of disorders, and even from normal variance.

I linked a study above that describes how the inheritance of the SRY gene is necessary in order for the rest of this to occur. The inheritance of this gene is the baseline requirement distinguishing factor of sex determination. The SRY gene is called the "sex-determining region of the Y gene" for this reason.

Finally, your answer to what about an unactivated SRY gene is frankly unsatisfactory. Since your definition is outside the norm, has less practical application, and is disagreed upon by the majority of biologists,

The inheritance of the SRY gene being what distinguishes sex is scientific consensus. I'm not sure where you got information otherwise.

"In mammals, two major breakthroughs have shaped our current understanding of sex determination. First, in 1959, two human DSDs, Turner syndrome (XO females) and Klinefelter syndrome (XXY males) were identified and reported (Ford et al., 1959; Jacobs and Strong, 1959), and these studies established that the Y chromosome carries a gene that determines maleness. It would take another 30 years before the second breakthrough was made: the discovery of SRY (sex-determining region on the chromosome Y, denoted Sry in species other than humans). The human SRY gene was identified by searching for conserved sequences among translocated Y chromosomal DNA from four XX male patients (Sinclair et al., 1990). The presence of a similar gene, Sry, on the mouse Y chromosome was consistent with this gene having a sex-determining function (Gubbay et al., 1990). The role of Sry as the switch gene for mammalian sex determination was confirmed in experiments in which XX mice were converted to males by the introduction of Sry (Koopman et al., 1991)."

I am asking you as a biology researcher active in the field - not as an undergrad studying biology, not as a biology graduate student - to please stop circulating scientific misinformation to support personal subjective belief systems and refrain from discussing scientific concepts you don't fully understand with conviction. It's okay to have curiosity about these things and engage in discussions from the perspective of learning more, and I recognize that a huge part of this is the fault of scientific institutions not ensuring that research is freely accessible and at least somewhat easily digestible to the public. But actually, willfully engaging in the spread of disinformation is wrong on so many grounds and harms public knowledge.

[realityhop]

"[S]ensual touch releases hormones in the brain that allow us to feel “fully functional” as human beings. When those chemicals remain suppressed, the madam observes, people go to “very dark places”, such as internalising feelings of severe inadequacy and distress, or turning to unhealthy sexual behaviour. … “They’re told, ‘You can keep this down. Don’t feel that,’” she says, referring to the abstinence culture in faith-based communities. “But how do you deny what God put in a young body – which is that desire?” … “We’re more like therapists than anything, and not just for virgins,” she says. “We have people who come in who’ve lost their wives recently and just need somebody to talk to and cuddle with or be close to. It’s more about companionship. I think that’s the most rewarding part of it – when you give someone the intimacy they’re missing.”"

— TheGuardian, ‘More like therapists’: adult virgins turn to Nevada brothels for sex – and healing (2024)

"Unfortunately marriage and relationships are becoming another luxury item. Marriage and pairing off with a mate is correlated to your wealth."

— Scott Galloway | YouTube (2023) 0:55

"The psychotic individuals in our society, without intentionality, do not behave in ways that produce rewards. Perhaps some people believe that schizophrenics are parasites in relation to our society. This estimation of the worth or the lack of it regarding these individuals serves only to compound their suffering. The mentally ill and psychotic individuals, in particular, are destitute in social, personal and financial spheres. Carl Roger’s disapproved of conditions of worth, and, in fact, he believed that human beings and other organisms strive to fulfill their potential. This striving represents what Roger’s termed “the actualizing tendency” and the “force of life.” … The goal of therapy from the humanistic orientation is to allow the client to achieve congruence in term of his real self and his ideal self. This means that what a person is and what he wants to be should become the same as therapy progresses. Self-esteem that is achieved in therapy will allow the client to elevate his sense of what he is, and self-esteem will also lessen his need to be better than what he is. ... “Conditions of worth” affect the mentally ill more severely than other people. Simple acceptance and empathy by a clinician may be curative to some extent, even for the chronically mentally ill."

— Ann Olson, Humanistic Intervention in Psychosis (2013)

"Down through the eons social and economic advantages accentuate and create deep-seated and systematic differences in outcomes between social groups. There is evidence that psychological characteristics such as feelings of self-esteem and the sense of control that one feels over one’s destiny are strongly associated with social class and background."

— Marie Byrne, Self-Actualization Against The Odds

"Promiscuity, sex without commitment, and use of sex to manage stress or tension are all things that are frequently a part of male sexuality, whether we like it or not. But, male sexuality is not a disease, not a public health crisis, it is not evil, and it does not overpower men’s lives or choices. Shaming men for these behaviors isolates men, and ignores powerful, important and healthy aspects of masculinity. … Male sexuality is portrayed as something that men must guard against, and it is often described as though it is a demonic force, lurking within our souls, which must be constrained, feared and even rejected. … Unfortunately, as long as we continue to shame and condemn men in general, and for specific sexual acts such as watching porn, we are merely isolating men. Further, we are exacerbating the problem, because removing porn or shaming men for their desires or fantasies, does not teach men how to be a sexually healthy man."

— David Ley, Shaming Men Doesn't Build Healthy Sexuality (2016)

"[My aunt] spent most of her life in a desolate environment deprived of the natural social connection that non-mentally ill people receive naturally due to the stigma of association with “crazy” people. After being diagnosed with a schizoaffective disorder myself, I also fought very hard against this internalized stigma. I realized the sexuality of people with schizophrenia is very important for human connection and chose to make it a priority. … Even treating schizophrenia can make sexual dysfunction worse. … The efforts put into helping people with schizophrenia are so few and far between that it’s not even a topic people even think of when considering our well-being."

— Sarah Myers, The Importance of Sexual Health in People with Schizophrenia (2022)

"The fact is that the purpose of all psychotherapy is to help the patient improve their functioning."

— Allan N. Schwartz | MentalHelp.net

[protein-drinks-land]

What Would Happen if I Drink Ten 30 Grams of Protein Each Protein Shakes a Day?

In today's fitness-centric world, protein shakes have become a ubiquitous presence, touted as essential supplements for muscle growth, weight loss, and overall health optimization. Walk into any gym, and you're likely to see people sipping on their post-workout protein concoctions, believing they're providing their bodies with the fuel needed to achieve their fitness goals.

The popularity of protein shakes has skyrocketed in recent years, driven by the widespread belief that higher protein consumption equates to greater muscle gains. This trend has been fueled by social media influencers, celebrity endorsements, and marketing campaigns promoting the benefits of protein supplementation.

What's the Deal with Protein Shakes?

Protein shakes are convenient and easily digestible sources of protein, often used by athletes, bodybuilders, and health enthusiasts to support muscle recovery and growth. They come in various forms, from whey and casein to plant-based options like soy or pea protein, offering versatility to meet diverse dietary preferences and needs.

The appeal of protein shakes lies in their convenience and efficiency. Unlike whole food sources of protein, which require preparation and cooking, protein shakes can be quickly mixed with water or milk and consumed on the go. This convenience makes them especially popular among busy individuals who struggle to meet their protein needs through regular meals.

The Question of Excess: Can You Have Too Much Protein?

While protein is undeniably important for health, the notion of whether there's such a thing as "too much" protein remains a subject of debate. Consuming excessive amounts of protein, especially through supplements like protein shakes, raises concerns about potential health risks, prompting the need for a closer examination of protein intake and its implications on overall well-being.

Understanding Protein Intake

Breaking Down the Basics: Protein 101

What is Protein?

Protein is one of the three macronutrients essential for the human body, alongside carbohydrates and fats. Composed of amino acids, protein plays a fundamental role in various physiological processes, serving as the building blocks for tissues, enzymes, hormones, and immune system components.

Proteins are polymers made up of amino acid monomers, linked together by peptide bonds. There are 20 different amino acids that can combine in various sequences to form a wide array of proteins with diverse structures and functions.

The Role of Protein in the Body

From supporting muscle repair and growth to regulating metabolism and aiding in nutrient transport, protein fulfills a multitude of functions crucial for overall health and vitality. Adequate protein intake is especially vital for individuals engaging in regular physical activity, as it helps repair muscle damage and promote muscle protein synthesis.

Protein is not only essential for muscle health but also plays a critical role in maintaining the health of organs, skin, hair, and nails. Enzymes and hormones, vital for various biochemical reactions and signaling processes in the body, are also predominantly made up of proteins.

Daily Protein Requirements

The recommended daily protein intake varies depending on factors such as age, sex, weight, activity level, and health goals. Generally, the average adult requires approximately 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. However, those engaged in intense physical training may need higher protein intake to support muscle recovery and adaptation.

For individuals looking to build muscle or lose weight, protein requirements may be higher to support these goals. Athletes and bodybuilders, in particular, may require protein intake ranging from 1.2 to 2.2 grams per kilogram of body weight per day to optimize performance and recovery.

Protein Shakes Demystified

Types of Protein Shakes

Protein shakes come in different formulations, with the most common types being whey, casein, and plant-based protein powders. Whey protein, derived from milk, is rapidly absorbed and ideal for post-workout recovery, while casein protein provides a slower release of amino acids, making it suitable for sustained muscle protein synthesis. Plant-based options cater to individuals with lactose intolerance or dietary preferences such as veganism.

Each type of protein powder has its unique characteristics and benefits. Whey protein, for example, contains a high concentration of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are crucial for muscle repair and growth. Casein protein, on the other hand, forms a gel-like substance in the stomach, slowing down digestion and providing a steady release of amino acids into the bloodstream.

How Protein Shakes Work

Upon consumption, protein shakes deliver a concentrated dose of amino acids to the muscles, facilitating muscle repair and growth. Whey protein, in particular, stimulates muscle protein synthesis due to its high leucine content, while other forms of protein contribute to overall protein balance and metabolic functions.

Protein shakes are often consumed during the post-workout window, known as the anabolic window, when the body is most receptive to nutrient uptake and muscle repair. By providing a readily available source of amino acids, protein shakes help replenish glycogen stores and initiate the muscle recovery process, leading to faster and more efficient muscle repair and growth.

The Appeal of Protein Shakes

The convenience and portability of protein shakes make them a popular choice for individuals seeking to meet their protein needs without the hassle of preparing traditional meals. Additionally, protein shakes offer a quick and easy way to customize nutrient intake based on specific fitness goals and dietary requirements.

For busy individuals with hectic schedules, protein shakes provide a convenient solution to the challenge of obtaining adequate protein intake throughout the day. Whether consumed as a post-workout recovery drink or a convenient snack between meals, protein shakes offer a convenient and efficient way to support muscle health and overall well-being.

The Myth of More: Debunking Protein Intake Myths

Myth #1: More Protein, More Muscles

While protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, there's a limit to how much the body can utilize effectively. Consuming excessive protein beyond what the body needs for protein synthesis does not necessarily translate to more muscle mass. Instead, it may lead to increased calorie intake and potential health risks associated with overconsumption.

The concept of "more protein equals more muscles" is a common misconception perpetuated by the fitness industry. While protein is indeed crucial for muscle repair and growth, consuming excessive amounts does not necessarily result in larger or stronger muscles. In fact, research suggests that protein intake beyond a certain threshold does not provide additional benefits in terms of muscle mass or strength.

Myth #2: Protein Shakes Replace Whole Foods

Protein shakes should complement, not replace, whole food sources of protein in a balanced diet. Whole foods provide essential nutrients, fiber, and phytochemicals that are lacking in many protein supplements. Relying solely on protein shakes for nutrition may result in nutrient deficiencies and undermine overall dietary quality.

While protein shakes can be a convenient and efficient way to increase protein intake, they should not serve as a substitute for whole foods. Whole food sources of protein, such as lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy, legumes, and nuts, provide a wide range of essential nutrients that are vital for overall health and well-being.

Myth #3: Excess Protein is Harmless

Contrary to popular belief, excessive protein intake can strain the kidneys, as they are responsible for filtering and excreting nitrogenous waste products generated from protein metabolism. Prolonged consumption of high-protein diets may increase the risk of kidney damage, especially in individuals with preexisting renal conditions.

While the body can metabolize and excrete excess protein, prolonged overconsumption can place undue stress on the kidneys, leading to impaired kidney function over time. This is particularly concerning for individuals with preexisting kidney conditions or a family history of kidney disease.

The Dangers of Overconsumption

Excess Protein and Kidney Health

The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance, as well as filtering waste products from the blood. High protein intake increases the kidneys' workload, potentially leading to impaired kidney function over time. Chronic kidney disease and kidney stones are among the risks associated with long-term overconsumption of protein.

The kidneys filter waste products and excess substances from the blood, including nitrogenous waste generated from protein metabolism. While the kidneys are capable of processing and excreting excess protein, prolonged overconsumption can place undue stress on these vital organs, leading to renal dysfunction and an increased risk of kidney disease.

Digestive Distress: The Toll on Your Gut

Excessive protein intake can cause digestive discomfort, including bloating, gas, and constipation, due to the incomplete breakdown of protein in the digestive tract. Additionally, some protein supplements may contain additives or artificial sweeteners that exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms in sensitive individuals.

Protein is digested and absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, where it is broken down into amino acids and absorbed into the bloodstream. However, consuming excessive amounts of protein can overwhelm the digestive system, leading to digestive distress and discomfort.

Weight Gain or Loss: The Impact of Excessive Protein

While protein is often promoted as a weight loss aid due to its satiating effect and potential to preserve lean muscle mass, consuming too much protein can backfire and lead to weight gain. Excess protein calories can be stored as fat if not utilized for energy, contributing to an imbalance in energy intake and expenditure.

The notion that protein consumption alone leads to weight loss is oversimplified and misleading. While protein is indeed important for satiety and muscle preservation, excessive protein intake can contribute to weight gain if total calorie intake exceeds energy expenditure.

Nutrient Imbalance: Too Much of a Good Thing?

Overreliance on protein supplements may result in nutrient imbalances, as they often lack essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants found in whole foods. A diet disproportionately high in protein at the expense of other macronutrients can compromise overall nutritional status and increase the risk of micronutrient deficiencies.

Protein supplements are designed to provide a concentrated source of protein in a convenient and easily digestible form. However, they often lack essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, that are abundant in whole foods.

The Ten-Shake Experiment: Potential Consequences

Beyond the Recommended: Understanding the Risks

Drinking ten 30-gram protein shakes per day far exceeds the typical daily protein requirements for most individuals and poses significant health risks. This extreme experiment illustrates the potential consequences of overconsuming protein supplements beyond what the body can effectively utilize.

The ten-shake experiment serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the dangers of excessive protein intake and the potential health consequences of overreliance on protein supplements. While protein is essential for health and well-being, consuming it in excess can have detrimental effects on overall health and longevity.

Immediate Effects: What Happens After Downing Ten Shakes

Digestive Disruption

The sudden influx of protein from ten shakes can overwhelm the digestive system, leading to bloating, cramping, and diarrhea as the body struggles to process and absorb the excess nutrients.

The gastrointestinal tract is equipped to digest and absorb nutrients from food, but consuming excessive amounts of protein can disrupt normal digestive processes. This can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

Fluid Retention

High protein intake increases the body's need for water to metabolize and excrete nitrogenous waste products, potentially causing fluid retention and dehydration if adequate hydration is not maintained.

Protein metabolism generates nitrogenous waste products, which must be excreted from the body via the kidneys. This process requires water, and consuming excessive protein without adequate hydration can lead to dehydration and fluid retention.

Blood Sugar Spikes

Protein shakes, especially those containing added sugars or carbohydrates, can cause rapid spikes in blood glucose levels, followed by a crash that leaves you feeling fatigued and irritable.

Some protein shakes contain added sugars or carbohydrates to improve taste and palatability. However, these added sugars can cause rapid spikes in blood glucose levels, leading to fluctuations in energy levels and mood.

Long-Term Consequences: Chronic Health Effects

Kidney Strain

The cumulative strain on the kidneys from prolonged overconsumption of protein supplements can lead to renal dysfunction, characterized by reduced glomerular filtration rate and impaired kidney function.

The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance, as well as filtering waste products from the blood. Prolonged overconsumption of protein can strain the kidneys, leading to impaired kidney function and an increased risk of kidney disease.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Relying heavily on protein shakes for nutrition may result in inadequate intake of essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, fiber, and phytonutrients, increasing the risk of nutrient deficiencies and related health problems.

Protein shakes are designed to provide a concentrated source of protein, but they often lack essential nutrients found in whole foods. Relying solely on protein supplements for nutrition can lead to nutrient imbalances and deficiencies, compromising overall health and well-being.

Metabolic Dysfunction

Excessive protein intake can disrupt metabolic processes, leading to imbalances in hormone levels, energy metabolism, and nutrient utilization. Prolonged overconsumption of protein supplements can increase the risk of metabolic dysfunction and related health conditions, such as insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease.

Balancing Protein Intake for Optimal Health

Finding Your Protein Sweet Spot

Optimal protein intake varies depending on individual factors such as age, sex, weight, activity level, and health goals. Finding the right balance of protein intake is crucial for supporting muscle health, promoting satiety, and maintaining overall health and well-being.

The key to finding your protein "sweet spot" lies in listening to your body's signals and adjusting your protein intake accordingly. Pay attention to factors such as hunger, energy levels, and muscle recovery to determine whether you're consuming enough protein to support your needs.

Incorporating Whole Foods for Complete Nutrition

While protein supplements can be a convenient way to boost protein intake, they should not replace whole food sources of protein in a balanced diet. Whole foods provide a wide range of essential nutrients, fiber, and phytochemicals that are vital for overall health and well-being.

Incorporating a variety of protein-rich foods into your diet ensures that you're getting a diverse array of nutrients and phytochemicals that support overall health and vitality. Aim to include a mix of animal and plant-based protein sources, such as lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy, legumes, nuts, seeds, and tofu, to optimize nutrient intake and promote long-term health.

The Role of Timing: When to Shake and When to Plate

The timing of protein intake can influence its effectiveness in supporting muscle repair and growth. Consuming protein within the post-workout anabolic window, typically within 30 minutes to two hours after exercise, can enhance muscle protein synthesis and promote faster recovery.

While post-workout protein intake is important for muscle recovery and growth, protein consumption throughout the day is equally crucial for maintaining overall protein balance and supporting metabolic health. Aim to spread your protein intake evenly across meals and snacks to optimize muscle protein synthesis and promote satiety throughout the day.

Seeking Professional Guidance: When in Doubt, Consult an Expert

The Importance of Individualized Nutrition

Nutrition is highly individualized, with factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and health status influencing nutrient needs and dietary preferences. Seeking personalized nutrition guidance from a qualified professional can help you optimize your diet for health, performance, and longevity.

Every individual has unique nutritional needs based on factors such as age, sex, weight, activity level, metabolic rate, and health status. A one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition may not be suitable for everyone, which is why seeking personalized nutrition guidance from a registered dietitian or nutritionist is essential for optimizing health and well-being.

Working with a Registered Dietitian or Nutritionist

Registered dietitians and nutritionists are trained professionals with expertise in nutrition science, dietary assessment, and personalized nutrition counseling. They can help you develop a tailored nutrition plan based on your individual goals, preferences, and lifestyle factors.

A registered dietitian or nutritionist can provide evidence-based nutrition guidance, support behavior change, and help you navigate the complex landscape of food and nutrition. Whether you're looking to improve athletic performance, manage a chronic health condition, or optimize your overall health and well-being, working with a qualified nutrition professional can provide invaluable support and guidance on your journey to better health.

Personalized Plans for Your Health Goals

A personalized nutrition plan takes into account your unique nutritional needs, dietary preferences, and health goals, providing a roadmap for achieving optimal health and well-being. Whether you're looking to lose weight, build muscle, improve athletic performance, or manage a chronic health condition, a tailored nutrition plan can help you reach your goals more effectively.

A personalized nutrition plan may include recommendations for optimizing macronutrient intake, incorporating specific foods or supplements, managing portion sizes, and establishing healthy eating habits. By working closely with a registered dietitian or nutritionist, you can develop a nutrition plan that is sustainable, enjoyable, and tailored to your individual needs and preferences.

Conclusion

A Cautionary Tale: The Risks of Protein Shake Overconsumption

While protein shakes can be a convenient way to boost protein intake, overconsumption can have detrimental effects on health. Drinking ten 30-gram protein shakes per day far exceeds the typical daily protein requirements for most individuals and poses significant health risks.

Striking a Balance: Moderation in Protein Intake

Finding the right balance of protein intake is crucial for supporting muscle health, promoting satiety, and maintaining overall health and well-being. While protein is essential for health, consuming it in excess can lead to adverse health effects, including kidney strain, digestive distress, and metabolic dysfunction.

Your Health, Your Responsibility: Making Informed Choices

Ultimately, your health is your responsibility, and making informed choices about nutrition is key to optimizing health and well-being. By understanding the role of protein in the body, debunking common myths about protein intake, and seeking personalized nutrition guidance when needed, you can make empowered choices that support your long-term health and vitality.

In conclusion, while protein shakes can be a convenient way to boost protein intake, moderation is key. By incorporating a balanced diet rich in whole foods and seeking personalized nutrition guidance from qualified professionals, you can optimize your protein intake and support your health and fitness goals effectively. Remember, when it comes to nutrition, quality matters as much as quantity, so choose wisely and prioritize your health above all else.