Breasts do not a woman make, nor do I identify as a woman.
As a result of some health issues I am experiencing, I have been examining my feelings towards my breasts. As a queer genderfluid person who predominantly presents female and femme, I do have some fun with them. With some added padding, I can nicely fill out the top of a corset. I can shake them at people when I am performing and they will give me money. However, I do not always identify with them or even remember that they exist.
Would I have any challenges with making the decision to sacrifice my breasts in exchange for a far lesser chance of developing cancer? Would any lovers I have experience difficulty with this decision? As a CAFABulous queer person in the 21st century, what impact do breasts have on my queer identity and sensibilities and those of the people with whom I surround myself?
Would the modern healthcare system take issue with my personal decision to sacrifice my breasts for a more secure and healthy life? From a financial standpoint, at the very least, it will most likely be the most prudent decision...and most likely from a health standpoint, as well--however, our society and culture places so much weight and importance on non-FTM CAFAB-people (trans* or cis) having and keeping their breasts, regardless of whether or not they will ever breastfeed or experience sexual pleasure from or ever identify strongly with them.
These trails of thought serve as yet another reminder that my trans* identity is erased in all but the most radical and forward-thinking and open-minded of circles, and another reminder that we are not allowed full control of our bodies.
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