The observation that a transgender woman’s physique retains a muscular appearance despite hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a common concern discussed in online communities, particularly on platforms like Reddit. Individuals undergoing male-to-female (MTF) transitioning may find that pre-existing muscle mass, developed during their assigned-male-at-birth physiology, persists even after hormone therapy begins to feminize other aspects of their body. This can be a source of dysphoria and frustration, as the individual may perceive their body as not aligning with their gender identity.
The persistence of muscle mass is primarily due to the biological effects of testosterone during development and puberty. Testosterone promotes muscle growth and density. While HRT aims to reduce testosterone levels and introduce estrogen, which can lead to muscle atrophy, the degree of muscle reduction varies significantly among individuals. Factors such as genetics, prior training intensity, age at transition initiation, and HRT dosage all influence the extent to which muscle mass diminishes. Further, some muscle fibers may be more resistant to atrophy than others, contributing to the continued prominence of certain muscle groups. Historically, this aspect of transition was less openly discussed, but online forums have provided a space for individuals to share experiences, strategies, and support related to this concern.
