40--SANDY THOMAS ADV.

P.O. Box 2309,

spine causing a chill, then a hot flash. I flushed as my body was flowing with emasculating hormones.

I had a rush of regret...my feelings had become far more complex over the last several months. Mary's opinion of me meant as much as my own---maybe more. This little game had grown in intensity from Mary's whim to whimsy to preoccupation and now to obsession----an obsession at making me flawless.

"Next time we will give you the injection in your left derriere, and alternate," she explained. "Injections are better than pills, so for a while we will continue the injections, so please come to the office about 4:45 every Tuesday and Thursday," she concluded.

Dr. Welsh took out a chart of how she planned to regulate my hormones. It said:

PHASEBODILY FUNCTIONRESPONSE

DAYS 1-4POST-MENSTRUAL: Estrogen level builds reaching first peak. You will feel energetic and well.

DAYS 5-8PRE-OVULATION: Estrogen fall slightly.

DAYS 9-120VULATION: Estrogen levels low. Sense of smell keen and body sensual.

DAYS 13-16POST-OVULATION: Estrogen and Progesterone levels rising again. You will be tired and sleep more.

DAYS 17-20EARLY PREMENSTRUAL: Estrogen and Progesterone levels reach second peak. You will feel some anxiety. You may have many dreams and nightmares.

DAYS 21-24PREMENSTRUAL: Estrogen and Progesterone levels fall sharply. Fingernails and toenail will grow faster. Some swelling in ankles, fingers and breasts from water retention. May gain several pounds due to bloating. Some complain of sore nipples, en-

Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 USA TV CLASSICS -41

gorged breasts and backaches. You may get depressed, irritated, and tired.

DAYS 25-28MENSTRUAL: Estrogen low then beginning to rise, Progesterone levels low. Experience some cramping, discomfort around the lower pelvis and upper thighs. If severe, try a hot water bottle or heating pad. Make sure you have necessary items in your

purse.

"Gee," I sighed, "Looks complicated."

"It is," Dr. Welsh said, "it takes time, but we'll have you settled into a regular cycle in a few months. You'll then get used to the cycle and adjust for the ups and downs."

"Is this really necessity?" I asked.

"Women go through hundreds of these cycles in their life," Dr. Welsh said, "They're important. As we turn you from husband to housewife, you must adjust to the new rhythm of your life and changing body. You must formulate a body image that is compatible with your new role. Your body shape should keep pace with your new image to be convincing."

"WOW," I groaned, "I'm going to change that much?"

Mary laughed, "Just wait! You have no idea."

After Dr. Welsh had departed, Mary and I went back out to the front porch until Janet had the kitchen work done, and everything put away.

"You understand that the injections are to aid in your feminization, don't you?" Mary asked.

"Yes," I replied, "My beard won't grow out as fast, right? but when will the effects become noticeable?" I asked.