How do I advocate for myself with doctors and therapists about my transition?

Sor Juana fought for intellectual respect in a world that saw her as someone who should be obedient and small. She wrote, she questioned, she refused to be silenced by people claiming to know her better than she knew herself. That same principle applies here: you are the expert on your body and your life. A good clinician listens; a bad one lectures or gatekeeps. You have the right to ask questions, to disagree, to seek a second opinion, to say no. Write down what you need—hormone doses, timelines, social support—before appointments so you don't forget under pressure. If a therapist insists you're not trans enough or makes you prove yourself, that's a red flag. If a doctor won't explain their reasoning, find another. Bring someone you trust to appointments if you need an advocate. Ask for notes on what's decided. You're not being difficult by asking questions; you're being responsible. The systems around transition care are imperfect, so you have to be your own guard rail. Trust your instinct about who supports you and who's just going through protocols.