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This is what numerous trans women go through in Thailand each year as they are forced to attend conscription for the nation's army.

Every April, Thai men who turn 21 must either volunteer to serve for six months in the military or take their chances in a lottery, where a choice of black ticket lets them go home but a red ticket means they must serve for two years.

But because Thai law dictates that trans people are not allowed to change their gender on their ID documents they must also take part - unless they can provide an exemption certificate.

A decade ago, transgender people were considered mentally ill by the military, which could create problems including future employment prospects.

It took a six-year fight by a trans women’s community before the Administrative Court ordered the designation changed to someone whose gender doesn’t match with their sex, or gender dysphoria, so that trans draftees could be exempted.

(Image: Exclusivepix Media) (Image: Exclusivepix Media) (Image: Exclusivepix Media)

Now, while many are mostly exempt from taking part in service, if they don't get the proper exemption documents they have to go along.

This has caused huge embarrassment and stress for many Thai trans women, and caused outcry from LGBT communities, Khaosodenglish.com reports .

'Draft day' is held each April, around the time of the traditional New Year, reports Thailife.com .

Pictures from this year's process show three selection centers in Phayao, Prae and Korat, where several hundred citizens from nine districts waited to hear their fate.

(Image: Exclusivepix Media) (Image: Exclusivepix Media)

In Phayao on Sunday a seven day selection procedure was taking place in the gym of a school.

Among the recruits was Patra Wirunthanakij, better known by her nickname Nadia, who is the former Miss Mimosa Queen of Thailand – a contest open only to 'Katoeys' - often controversially referred to in western culture as 'lady boys.'

Also among the potential recruits was Anchada Duayamphan, who told reporters: “I’m nervous and excited. I am studying in the first year at uni in Ayuthaya. I am not a 100% woman yet – I have not had the op”.

Her pal Rusanan Reuanmoon smiled, adding: “I don’t want to be a soldier. I want to be a woman. I’m not 100% yet as I haven’t had my extra bits removed”.

(Image: Exclusivepix Media) (Image: Exclusivepix Media)

Meanwhile in Prae Thai Rath reported that eight trans women escaped selection.

There were 60 men chosen from 500 attendees.

In Prae, Wisanu Nuanjan, from Wangthong sub-district, said: “I work in Chiang Mai. I haven’t switched over entirely yet.

“I have been in many beauty contests and I always come in first. I was scared of being a soldier – it is great not to be chosen”.

(Image: Exclusivepix Media)

Ahead of this year's event, members of the media, government and LGBT community gathered in Bangkok to discuss new guidelines for better treatment of transgender recruits.

Ronnapoom Samakkeekarom of the Transgender Alliance for Human Rights said during the event at the Sukosol Hotel.: "Many in the Thai media still portray such news in a humorous way.

"Some of them even cause more stress to transgender recruits."