The answer to this question depends on your individual circumstances and the surgeon you choose. Some surgeons may recommend that you stop taking hormones before vaginoplasty, while others may not.

There are a few reasons why a surgeon might recommend that you stop taking hormones before vaginoplasty. First, estrogen can increase your risk of blood clots, and surgery is already a risk factor for blood clots. Second, estrogen can make your skin more sensitive, and this could make the healing process after vaginoplasty more difficult.

However, there are also some reasons why a surgeon might not recommend that you stop taking hormones before vaginoplasty. First, stopping hormones can cause you to experience menopause-like symptoms, such as hot flashes and mood swings. Second, stopping hormones can make your genitals smaller, which could make vaginoplasty more difficult.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to stop taking hormones before vaginoplasty is a personal one. You should talk to your surgeon about your individual circumstances and make the decision that is best for you.

Here are some additional things to consider when making your decision:

• Your risk of blood clots: If you have a high risk of blood clots, your surgeon may recommend that you stop taking hormones before vaginoplasty.
• Your desired results: If you want to have a larger vagina, you may want to continue taking hormones before vaginoplasty.
• Your comfort level: If you are not comfortable stopping hormones, you may want to talk to your surgeon about other options.

The need to stop taking hormones before vaginoplasty can vary depending on the type of hormones you are taking and the specific surgical practices of your healthcare provider. It is essential to discuss this matter with your surgical team to receive personalized advice and guidance based on your medical history and hormone regimen.

In some cases, your surgeon may recommend temporarily discontinuing certain hormones before vaginoplasty to reduce the risk of blood clot formation during surgery. Estrogen, in particular, can increase the risk of blood clots, especially when taken in higher doses or in combination with other risk factors. Stopping estrogen therapy before surgery may help mitigate this risk.

However, stopping hormones may not be necessary for everyone. Your surgical team will consider various factors, including your overall health, any pre-existing medical conditions, the type of hormones you are taking, and the specific surgical techniques used during the procedure.

If your surgical team advises you to stop hormone therapy before vaginoplasty, they will provide you with specific instructions about when to stop and when it is safe to resume after surgery. It is crucial to follow their guidance closely to ensure your safety and optimize surgical outcomes.

Additionally, it’s important to have open and honest communication with your surgical team about your hormone therapy and any other medications you are taking. This information will help them tailor your pre-operative and post-operative care to your unique needs.

Always consult with your healthcare provider or surgical team regarding any adjustments to your hormone therapy or any other medications you are taking. They are the best resource to guide you through the medical aspects of your gender-affirming journey and ensure that you receive the most appropriate care and support.