Trans men and transmasculine people are often left out of conversations about trans dating, which usually focus on trans women. TSMingle welcomes trans men, non-binary people and everyone who wants to date them. This guide covers what FTM means, how to meet trans men online, and how to date respectfully and safely.
What does FTM mean?
FTM stands for “female to male.” It describes a person who was assigned female at birth and is a man or identifies on the masculine side of the gender spectrum. Many people today simply say trans man or transmasculine, and some prefer not to use FTM at all, because it focuses on the past rather than who they are now. When in doubt, use the words a person uses about himself.
Every trans man’s path is different. Some take testosterone or have surgery, some don’t, and none of that changes who he is. Medical details are private and are never a fair question in a first conversation.
Where to meet trans men
Mainstream apps can be hit and miss for trans men: profiles get reported, matches don’t read the bio, or conversations quickly turn into questions about bodies. A dating site built for the trans community makes it easier to meet people who already understand and are interested in you.
- Trans-focused dating sites like TSMingle, where you can say you are a trans man in your profile and search for the people you want to meet.
- Local LGBTQ+ centers and events. Our city guides list community centers, Pride events and welcoming neighborhoods in 26 cities.
- Interest groups such as sports leagues, book clubs and volunteering, where friendships can turn into something more.
Tips for trans men creating a dating profile
- Lead with your personality. Share your hobbies, humor and what a great weekend looks like to you.
- Be as open as you’re comfortable with. Saying you’re a trans man in your profile helps filter out people who aren’t a good match, but how much you share is always your choice.
- Use recent, clear photos, including at least one where your face is easy to see.
- Say what you’re looking for: friendship, something casual or a long-term relationship.
- Set boundaries early. It’s fine to tell someone that questions about your body or medical history are off the table.
Dating a trans man respectfully
If you’re interested in dating a trans man, the basics are the same as dating anyone: be curious about him as a person, be honest about what you want and treat him with respect.
- Use his name and pronouns (usually he/him) from the start.
- Don’t ask about surgery, hormones or his old name. If he wants to share, he will.
- Don’t treat him as a fetish or an experiment. Attraction is great; making his trans status the only thing you’re interested in is not.
- Be proud to date him in public, not only in private.
- Let him lead on intimacy, and talk openly about what feels good and what doesn’t.
Many of the same principles apply in our guide on how to date a trans woman respectfully.
Dating safely
- Video chat before meeting to confirm the person matches their photos.
- Meet in a public place for the first few dates and tell a friend where you’ll be.
- Never send money to someone you haven’t met in person.
- Never share someone’s trans status without their permission.
- Report fake profiles or harassment to our team through the contact page.
Common questions
Is TSMingle only for trans women?
No. TSMingle welcomes trans men, trans women, non-binary people and the people who want to date them.
Is FTM an offensive term?
Not usually, and many people use it in dating profiles and searches. Some trans men prefer “trans man” or simply “man,” so follow the lead of the person you’re talking to.
Do I have to say I’m trans on my profile?
No. It’s your choice. Many trans men find that being open from the start saves time and leads to better matches.
Is it free to join?
Yes. Creating a profile and browsing members on TSMingle is free.