When I first started transitioning I used an app some coworkers were developing to help people with specific needs find suitable restrooms in the area. It wasn’t for trans people but it happened to only have single occupant restrooms so it was handy none the less.

After I was able to pass most of the time (unless I spoke) I started using the women’s restroom regularly. I never tried to use a locker room or anything like that though and still probably wouldn’t until bottom surgery. Even after a couple years I was still scared in public restrooms because I don’t really have a passing voice. It was especially stressful when I’d go in with someone else who tried to continue talking while we were in there.

A few years ago I was forced to move back in with my folks in Texas (previously I was in Michigan) and just don’t feel safe. I have used the women’s restroom on several occasions when it was an emergency, but I’ve shifted how I leave the house to make sure I’m not gone for more than a few hours and if I am to identify a business with single use restrooms or extremely crowded ones (like Buccee’s or Ikea or whatever). Texas has a law making it illegal for trans people to use the restroom of their identified gender in specifically state funded facilities, but most people think it’s any bathroom so I’d rather not get shot or have to deal with the cops.