Here are the steps on how to start hormone therapy:
- Find a qualified healthcare provider. This could be an endocrinologist, a family doctor, or a mental health professional who specializes in transgender care.
- Have a consultation with your healthcare provider.During this consultation, you will discuss your gender identity, your goals for hormone therapy, and your medical history. Your healthcare provider will also perform a physical exam and order blood tests to assess your overall health.
- If your healthcare provider determines that you are a good candidate for hormone therapy, they will prescribe hormones for you.The specific hormones you will take will depend on your gender identity and your individual needs.
- Start taking hormones.You will typically start with a low dose of hormones and then gradually increase the dose over time. Your healthcare provider will monitor your hormone levels and adjust your dosage as needed.
- Continue taking hormones for as long as you want or need to.Hormone therapy is a lifelong commitment. If you stop taking hormones, your body will begin to revert to its previous state.
Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:
- The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH): https://www.wpath.org/
- The American Psychological Association (APA): https://www.apa.org/topics/lgbt/transgender
- The National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE): https://transequality.org/
It is important to note that the process of starting hormone therapy can vary depending on your location and the specific healthcare providers available to you. If you are having trouble finding a qualified healthcare provider, you can contact one of the organizations listed above for assistance.
Starting hormone therapy for gender transition typically involves the following steps:
- Seek Professional Guidance: It is advisable to consult with healthcare professionals who specialize in transgender healthcare. They can provide information, guidance, and support throughout the hormone therapy process. This may include endocrinologists, primary care physicians, or specialists in transgender healthcare.
- Find a Transgender Healthcare Provider: Look for healthcare providers who have experience working with transgender individuals. They will have the necessary knowledge to guide you through the hormone therapy process and monitor your progress.
- Initial Evaluation and Assessment: Your healthcare provider will conduct an initial evaluation and assessment to determine your eligibility for hormone therapy. This may involve discussing your medical history, performing physical examinations, and assessing your mental health.
- Informed Consent: In some cases, healthcare providers may require informed consent before starting hormone therapy. This means that they will explain the potential risks, benefits, and expected effects of hormone therapy, as well as any alternatives or limitations. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and provide informed consent to proceed with hormone therapy.
- Hormone Prescription: Once you have been deemed eligible and have provided informed consent, your healthcare provider will prescribe hormone medications. For male-to-female transition, estrogen and anti-androgen medications are typically prescribed. For female-to-male transition, testosterone is the primary hormone used.
- Monitoring and Adjustments: Your healthcare provider will monitor your hormone levels and overall health throughout the course of hormone therapy. Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to assess your progress, make any necessary adjustments to your hormone dosage, and address any concerns or side effects that may arise.
- Supportive Care: Alongside hormone therapy, it is crucial to have access to mental health support. This may include therapy, counseling, or support groups that specialize in transgender issues. Mental health support can assist with navigating the emotional aspects of hormone therapy and the overall gender transition process.