Here are some things to know about hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for MTF:
⦁ What is HRT? HRT is a type of treatment that uses hormones to help people who are transgender align their bodies with their gender identity. In the case of MTF, HRT uses estrogen and anti-androgens to feminize the body.
Estrogen hormone therapy
⦁ What are the benefits of HRT? HRT can have a number of benefits for MTF people, including:
⦁ Breast development
⦁ Reduced body hair growth
⦁ Softer skin
⦁ Changes in voice pitch
⦁ Increased fat deposition in hips, thighs, and buttocks
⦁ Improved mood
⦁ Reduced risk of osteoporosis
⦁ What are the risks of HRT? HRT also has some risks, including:
⦁ Blood clots
⦁ Liver damage
⦁ Heart disease
⦁ Cancer
⦁ How long does HRT last? HRT is usually a lifelong treatment. However, the dosage and frequency of HRT may change over time.
⦁ Who can get HRT? HRT is usually prescribed by a doctor who specializes in transgender care.
If you are considering HRT, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider to discuss the risks and benefits of treatment. They can help you determine if HRT is right for you and can help you develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs.
Here are some resources that you may find helpful:
⦁ The World Professional Association for Transgender Health: https://www.wpath.org/
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World Professional Association for Transgender Health
⦁ The International Foundation for Gender Education: https://www.ifge.org/
Opens in a new window www.digitaltransgenderarchive.net
International Foundation for Gender Education
⦁ The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
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Trevor Project
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is an essential component of the gender transition process for many transgender women (male-to-female, or MTF). Hormones are used to induce feminizing changes in the body, aligning an individual’s physical characteristics with their gender identity.
Here are some key points about hormone replacement therapy for MTF individuals:
⦁ Estrogen: Estrogen is the primary hormone used in MTF hormone therapy. It helps to promote feminizing changes in the body, including breast development, redistribution of body fat, and changes in skin texture. Estrogen can be administered orally (pills), transdermally (patches or gels), or via injections.
⦁ Anti-Androgens: Anti-androgens are medications used to suppress the effects of testosterone. They help to reduce male secondary sexual characteristics and allow the feminizing effects of estrogen to occur more fully. Spironolactone is a commonly used anti-androgen in MTF hormone therapy, although other medications such as cyproterone acetate or GnRH agonists may also be used.
⦁ Dosage and Monitoring: The dosage of hormones and the frequency of administration will be determined by a healthcare professional experienced in transgender care. Regular blood tests will be conducted to monitor hormone levels and ensure safe and effective hormone therapy. Dosages may be adjusted over time based on individual response and health considerations.
⦁ Effects and Timeline: Hormone therapy induces gradual changes in the body over time. Effects can vary among individuals, but commonly include breast growth, reduction in body hair growth, softer skin, changes in fat distribution, and a decrease in libido. The timeline for these changes varies, with noticeable effects typically occurring over several months to a few years.
⦁ Side Effects and Risks: Like any medical treatment, hormone therapy carries potential risks and side effects. These can include blood clotting, liver complications, changes in mood or emotional well-being, and effects on fertility. It is important to have regular check-ups with a healthcare professional to monitor and manage any potential risks or complications.
It is crucial to undergo hormone therapy under the guidance of qualified healthcare professionals experienced in transgender care. They will assess your specific needs, monitor hormone levels, and provide personalized guidance throughout the process. Regular communication and follow-up with your healthcare provider are important for ensuring the safest and most effective hormone regimen for you.