Hello Everyone
I thought it was about time I got round to writing this as I am now coming up to 8 month's HRT and HRT Board is one of my favourite Boards providing so much medical experience and personal stories.
I had registered aged 62 in 2017 as a private patient with GenderGP in UK and had had therapy and my therapist and I both agreed I should go onto HRT. My NHSGP requested several Blood Tests (BTs) as "Healthcheck" in December but these did not include Oestrogen (E) or Testosterone (T) or Prolactin but I noticed my White Blood Cells Count a little higher than Red Blood Cells Count at 5.2 to 4.9. My "Healthcheck" proved fine and I started HRT (Evorel Patches and Finasteride) by Informed Consent as a private patient on February 8th 2018. Obviously I shall remember that date forever! My patches are 3/4 day ones but I determined to change every 84 hours at the inception.
In my first two weeks my erections had gone (but had been infrequent anyway), my skin on hands and arms felt smoother and I experienced a great sense of peace. This may or may not have been a placebo effect.
After 2 months I noticed Testicular Reduction, my penis has always been small. I should point out that although I hate these two body parts, my main source of body dysphoria has always been, by a narrow margin over the former, body hair. I also noticed my body odour had changed significantly to feminine and my urine was less pungent.
After 3 months I was delighted both that my body hair was thinner and growing slower and also that I could feel breast buds. My mind was clearer and my aggravation was lessened significantly. I could cry and I could laugh! I felt emotions properly! I was still depressed at times but was starting to "live" instead of just existing. I knew I was on the right fuel and would remain on HRT for life. I arranged a "Shared Care Agreement" between my NHSGP and GenderGP whereas the former arranges BTs and checks Blood Pressure and Weight (both are fine - my weight is 68kg or 150lbs) and the latter provides advice and agrees prescriptions. I had my 3 months BTs May 23rd which gave results of E 922 (Intl) 251 (US) and T 1.6 (Intl) 46 (US) and Prolactin 461 (Intl) 21.7 (US). My NHSGP called for a further BT for prolactin after 5 months.
Back in February I suspected that I may have to ultimately transition as my GD could not be reburied and had become so dominant but technically at that time I was "exploring". After 3/4 months in May/June I knew I would be transitioning when further physical benefits occurred and considered 20 months from Feb 8th 2018 meaning Oct 8th 2019 the absolute maximum.
I had my 5 month BT July 23rd just for Prolactin resulting in 534 (Intl) 25.1 (US).
After 6 months my breasts were forming and areolae increasing right larger than left in respect of both. I was feeling depressed less frequently but I noticed my mood changed more frequently. I was generally more relaxed and more emotional and at times "above the line" and in fact happy and cheerful. I had my 6 months BTs August 14th which gave results of E 1662 (Intl) 453 (US) and T 2.4 (Intl) 69 (US) and Prolactin 622 (Intl) 29.2 (US) along with a Full Blood Count with White Cells leading Red Cells by 7.3 to 4.3. GenderGP and I were both surprised my E was so high and agreed another BT necessary just for E which I had drawn August 28th and it was slightly lower at 1575 (Intl) 429 (US). As my T has also risen, I was prescribed Decapetyl (Triptorelin) which my NHSGP injected into me in addition to the Evorel Patches and Finasteride. Also at this time I decided to start Body Hair Removal (BHR) by both Laser and Electrolysis and after 2 months results are pleasing.
After 8 months I now witness more breast growth with right still leading in size over left and surprisingly some foot size reduction. My muscles have softened in my body as a whole. I am more motivated; not only am I on the right fuel but also on the right track. My embarrassment (but never shame) I overcame some time ago. I feel confident and motivated to proceed further with HRT and BHR along the path to transition.
In November I am putting my house on the market and moving (not too far away) and I think the best and logical time to publicly transition is when I move house. So now I am hoping for June/July 2019 rather than October 8th 2019 providing more physical benefits occur by then; however even if they do not occur, I think I shall probably go fulltime on moving house anyway! My next BTs are scheduled for Nov 12th and we expect lower E and lower T.
I have been out en femme sometimes for a walk in the park locally or occasionally in another town walking and sitting having a coffee and although I have had to suffer " the long stare", only once have I been mildly insulted.
My previous doubts and worries have gone. I shall proceed to future happiness!
Hugs to all
Pamela xx
I loved that post Pamela,
Sounds like you are finally coming of age as your natural female self! Much positivity coming through in the post as well.
I know on the boards you come through as softy spoken, empathetic & naturally feminine. If the opportunity ever comes up I would love to meet in the real world . I bet that natural womanliness comes through face to face.
Your growth and development is inspiring to me - I always love to hear how you are going - that's why I liked this post so much.
You mentioned 68 kg - a passable size! Are you of normal female height as well?
Can you wear size 12 ? Sorry about pushy questions but your transition does interest me. I'm personally 86 kg 6' tall - big for a woman but there are plenty of tall girls in Darwin so I hope to pass in the end. I am size 16- wish I could get to 14 !
Moving house soon -making for an easier time to present female- exciting times ! I really hope you keep us all up to date with transition events & personal development at your new place.
It's all real! - it's happening - you are finally getting to align your gender! That must feel indescribably great.
I just want to pass on my biggest hugs and best wishes Pamela. You are a lovely woman and it only gets better from here on !
With friendship and love, Kirsten[emoji126]
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Thank you so much Kirsten for such kindness and wonderful praise which I do not merit.
You truly are so sweet! I hope some day we may meet.
My height is 175cms or 5' 9". Size 14 at present - I know UK sizes theoretically same as Australia but one can never be precise on size especially with body shape not properly aligned (ie no hips and boobs growing).
If I inspire anyone at all, it is hard to believe as I am still seeking advice and encouragement from others.
Your greatest comment to me of course is that I am naturally feminine and I appreciate that more than anything else in the world!
Have a good weekend and I look forward to further discussion on HRT and on other Boards.
Sending you my love
Pamela xx
Pamela,
Thanks for sharing with us. It is nice to hear other stories. HRT has been great, but I do wish my breast would get a lot bigger. I'm about 20 months on and I do love how I feel but I still would like some changes that I know HRT will not bring.
It sounds like you have a great plan on the direction you want to go. Keep us posted.
Julie
Hi from another 61 year old gal Pamela! Thank you for sharing your HRT journey with us. I am delighted to follow your thread. I'm 14 months HRT and am hoping for more breast size. We both have a long way to go yet. I'm guessing, for me, another two years to reach my full breast size.
Pretty much all the same emotional and physical changes here too. I'm looking forward to following your updates.
Hugs,
Donica.
@pamelatransuk Dear Pamela:I hope that your are getting ready for your end of October HRT update...
Your curious followers want to know!!!! We are your biggest fans and are rooting for you.
At the 8 or 9 month point your HRT should already be kicking into high gear now....
... changes will usually be more significant and coming more quickly... and there is so very much more to come for you. Hang on tight!
Thank you for sharing with us all.
Hugs,
Danielle
Quote from: Donica on October 27, 2018, 03:02:53 PM
Hi from another 61 year old gal Pamela! Thank you for sharing your HRT journey with us. I am delighted to follow your thread. I'm 14 months HRT and am hoping for more breast size. We both have a long way to go yet. I'm guessing, for me, another two years to reach my full breast size.
Pretty much all the same emotional and physical changes here too. I'm looking forward to following your updates.
Hugs,
Donica.
@Donica Dear Donica: For me some of the most significant body changes happened between year ONE and year TWO of HRT, my breasts became a full B cup and then during and toward the end of my 3rd year of HRT my breasts became a C cup and that is where they are today at over 3 1/2 years of my HRT.
Because I am very active, hiking running, jogging, etc... I really do not want any more and so far I am very happy that they have seemed to maintain a 34C cup.
Of course everyone and every body reacts uniquely to HRT.
Hugs,
Danielle
Dear Julie, Donica and Danielle
Thank you for your kind words of support which I truly appreciate and find most encouraging.
My Blood Tests are today and I see my results online Wed and I see my doctor Thurs.
I shall provide a full HRT update at the end of this week.
Hugs
Pamela
Hello Everyone
I had my 9 month Blood Tests which were very comprehensive inclusive of a Full Blood Count on Nov 12th.
The highlights are that my White Cells still lead my Red Cells by 6 to 4.2. My T is now thankfully down to 0.7 (Intl) 20 (US) and my Prolactin is greatly reduced to 198 (Intl) 9.3 (US). Unfortunately it was impossible to verify my E reading as I have recently been on holiday/vacation in Canaries where it was hot and I went 2 days without patches as they came off due to sweating. However I have no problem with patches in general living here in UK. Consequently I am having my blood redrawn just for E early December. Obviously I remember to some degree all my holidays but the recent one will be more relevant as it will be recalled in future as my last in male mode.
In the ninth month I have now noticed significant testicular reduction such that there very little inside the sack! Emotionally I remain "above the line" for much longer periods than previously. Leading up to last February I was so depressed and uptight due to GD, whereas now my depression is manageable. I continue to laugh and to cry. All my body hair is thinner and grows slower and even my rate of growth of facial hair has decreased. These two aspects should be pursuant to both HRT and BHR (Body Hair Removal).
I enjoy the physical and emotional benefits of HRT more than most could imagine and as I witness more, my confidence grows further.
Thank you for reading. Next update after 10 months on result of BT for E mid December.
Hugs to all
Pamela xx
That's good news Pamela. Yes the patch can be difficult in some situations. I went with the pill instead but I'm thinking of changing over to the injections.
That seems to be the normal occurrence with HRT to have differences white red blood cell counts. My PCP thought I might be anemic. Even though he believed it was just the HRT, he ordered another FBC to be sure.
I find the testicular reduction convenient as it makes it much easier to hide the evil twins and things no matter what I'm wearing. No gaffs needed here anymore ;D.
I'm glad to hear your emotions are remaining above the line for longer periods now. It is a rollercoaster of emotions. It can take some time to learn how to control them but I find it to be a fun new experience.
Enjoy the ride girl.
Donica.
Pamela, it was interesting reading your report and progress.
being intersex, my experience is entirely different. I just started HRT (Patches), and am barely into my second week of it.
Most of the changes you experienced, happened to me over the last 2 to 3 years without any additional estrogen. My penis shrunk to about two inches, and my testes are the size of a hazelnut, but extremely sensitive against touch (they hurt badly).
My breasts are now between an A and a B cup. I have another advantage over "normal" trans women and cis women, I do not have body hair, not on my legs, chest or under the arm pits. I also do not have an Adams Apple and because of this not a very low male voice. My "normal" voice is in the androgynous/low female range, and my beard growth is not very strong.
I have no idea what estrogen will do to me, and what changes I can expect at which time. So far, I do not feel anything that I could attribute to estrogen. It is just amazing that the stuff works so different with different people.
I wish you continuous good luck on your exciting journey!
Thank you Donica and Dietlind for your kind words of support.
Just for the record I also do not possess a visible Adam's Apple thankfully.
Hugs
Pamela
Hello Everyone
My NHSGP sent my BT results to GenderGP accordingly on Nov 15th and he and I were not expecting GenderGP to consider amendment to my dosage but to wait for the extra BT for E in early December. However they determined that as both my E&T would both be low, that my E Patches should be increased by half. Therefore wef Nov 22nd I have been on same dosage of Decapetyl/Triptorelin, the same dosage of Finasteride and 1.5 x original Estradiol Patch dosage.
I had the extra BT for E on Dec 6th which resulted in reading of 442 (Intl) 120 (US) which as it is low confirms GenderGP were correct to foresee and to increase my E Patches. I saw my NHSGP Dec18th and he took my Blood Pressure which since July has decreased slightly from 148/92 to 138/90 and my weight which has increased since July from 68Kgs or 150lbs to 72.5Kgs or 159lbs. He and I are satisfied with my weight at present; like many I eat more in Winter and I expect another small increase over the next 3 months but I shall watch my diet closely wef March.
In the last month I can report that emotionally I am feeling better in that the depression is less severe and only usually of the "dulled and less motivation" type instead of the physically painful type. My mind is clear and I am at times smiling and "above the line".
I confirm that physical changes are now happening at a faster pace. My boobs are certainly growing and I see a significant difference over the last month and furthermore I still get pains in them meaning the present spurt is likely to continue. I can also see and feel my muscles being less prominent and softer and my skin now truly feminine. My former male body odour has been replaced by a sweeter smell and I could manage without deodorant for 2 days but I still choose to apply every day.
My house will go on the market very soon as I am having some minor decorative work done first.
I remain confident that I can and that I shall publicly transition when I move house hopefully Summer 2019.
Thank you for reading. Next update after 11 months HRT mid January.
Hugs to all
Pamela xx
Hello Everyone
Over the last month I can see further evidence of facial hair growing thinner and at a slower rate due to both HRT and BHR. I can also see some difference in my face a whole; it is more rounded and less long. The miserable depressed look has disappeared, I am delighted to say.
My skin and muscles both feel softer and gentle. No further boob growth but I still get the pains.
I used to regularly require 7 hours sweep but didn't usually achieve it as my sleep was disturbed on some nights but now 6 hours is sufficient and I usually either sleep right through or wake up for only a matter of minutes in the night.
My house is up for sale and I am searching for a smaller property to buy and to publicly transition on arrival there.
I feel more motivated and organized.
I have in my possession the Blood Forms for 12 Month Blood Test on Feb 7th.
Thank you for reading. Next update after 12 Month BT results and medical advice mid-February.
Hugs
Pamela
Quote:
"The miserable depressed look has disappeared"
Awesome! I know just what you mean. I honestly haven't been this undepressed my entire life.
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The one thing that I really noticed is my leg and arm hair. Before HRT I shaved both arms and legs. Now with HRT I haven't really needed to shave my arms and my legs hair grows so slow now. I can go almost 2 weeks and don't have much growth.
The face on the other hand is still a pain. Had another electrolysis session today. Ok hair, die already.
I will have two years on HRT February 7th. A good two years. ^-^
thanks for the update Pamela,
Julie
Hello Everyone
I had my 12 month Blood Tests which were very comprehensive inclusive of a Full Blood Count on Feb 7th.
The highlights were that my E was 558 (Intl) 152 (US) and my T was virtually suppressed at 0.2 (Intl) 6 (US); my White Cells and Red Cells remain at 6 and 4.2 respectively and all seems fine elsewhere. I thought I had gained weight and was surprised to see it also remains at 72.5Kg or 159lbs.
I have certainly felt hungrier especially in the evening and consumed more but perhaps it was just because it is Winter when I think most of need more sustenance. My doctor had previously expected also that I would gain weight. So this is relieving statistically and healthwise but if I gain weight I wish only to get fat in the boob and hip areas or better still to gain it there and lose it from my stomach.
My boobs have become much more noticeable to me and I am sure people who regularly see me must have noticed despite being hidden under bra and 2 jumpers (January was cold here in UK but February mild). I still get occasional pain and there was significant growth in the quarter to Feb 7th.
I never had much body hair on my arms and legs but did have some on my chest and back and abdomen and thanks to HRT and BHR it has all virtually gone - only a few hairs on my stomach remain visible even after 6 weeks of no bodyshaving. I am well pleased.
I have looked at photos of myself and I can see a definite difference in the shape of the face - more rounded and the cheeks look brighter - between Feb 2018 and Feb 2019.
I have noticed over the last quarter that I have less strength but it is manageable. I am occasionally fatigued in the evening but I have all my life been a "morning person" anyway. I am considerably more emotional after a year HRT as I hardly ever cried previously whereas I sometimes do so at particular scenes on TV and laugh more easily and for longer periods! As my T is virtually suppressed, you will expect and I confirm my testicles are so small and never "in the way".
Coincidentally I sold my house on Feb 7th but the sale has recently failed and my house is back on the market. I am disappointed that the sale did not proceed but I am hopeful that my house should sell in Spring.
I remain motivated and organized as a result of a clear mind.
I appreciate most of my readers are not from UK but you may have noticed on Transgender Talk Board the "UK Meet Up" thread and as I feel confident, I shall be travelling and attending it as Pamela on March 16th.
I will be publicly transitioning on moving house. I realize this may necessitate a change of NHSGP with whom I have built up a good relationship but I can live with that and hopefully find another decent one. My private endo at GenderGP will remain the same.
The best feeling pursuant to both HRT and BHR is the absolute certainty in my mind that I am on the right track. Much less depression and regularly feeling great!
Thanks for reading. Next update in March after the UK Meet Up.
Hugs to all my readers.
Pamela xx
Quote from: pamelatransuk on February 28, 2019, 06:46:04 AM
The highlights were that my E was 558 (Intl) 152 (US) and my T was virtually suppressed at 0.2 (Intl) 6 (US);
Pamela xx
Hi Pamela
Sounds as everything is going well for you! The values you have s what my endo expects me to be up when I have my next blood test. He feels that I might even be able to reduce my E intake, because of no T anymore. Lesser E would, of course, mean a lesser chance for a possible DVT.
I hope that your house sales will go through this time around to allow you to start the new chapter of your life as planned!
Hugs
Linde
Pamela,
Congrats on your one year anniversary. Your vitals look great. On weight change it is funny. I can't lose any but how the body changes makes you think you gain weight. I still would like to lose 10. :)
I'm happy that your right path is going well. Have fun at the UK meet up.
Julie
Congratulations on your 1 year HRT anniversary Pamela. Time is moving along. I know it seems like it took a long time to get here but it also seems like we just started yesterday.
Hugs girl.
Dear Linde, Julie and Donica
Thank you for your kind words and support and good luck Linde with matching or exceeding my E level of 558 (Intl) 152 (US).
Hugs
Pamela xx
Quote from: pamelatransuk on March 03, 2019, 08:23:48 AM
Dear Linde, Julie and Donica
Thank you for your kind words and support and good luck Linde with matching or exceeding my E level of 558 (Intl) 152 (US).
Hugs
Pamela xx
I don't know what my T level will be, but very likely identical to a natal female. I personally think I should take a higher dose of E than I am taking now, because I have some spare pills, and I doubled my dose for the weekend, and I feel way better with this higher dose. I hope I can convince my endo of this, so he prescribes a higher dose for me!
Extra estrogen always feels good but my prescibing doctor tells me that one must be careful not to saturate the receptors. If we do the feminisation process grinds to a halt.
Kirsten x
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Quote from: Kirsteneklund7 on March 04, 2019, 04:19:43 AM
Extra estrogen always feels good but my prescibing doctor tells me that one must be careful not to saturate the receptors. If we do the feminisation process grinds to a halt.
Kirsten x
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@Kirsteneklund7 Dear Kirsten:You are a smart girl for following your doctor's advice regarding the prescribed estrogen. Thank you for sharing this wise advice.
Like many things in life... trying to do things more quickly with a bigger hammer, or in the case of HRT with higher dosages does not always have the desired effect.
There are many reports here on the forums from transitioning members regarding their conversations with their Endo/doctor that "slowly and carefully" while frequently monitoring blood test results, is a safer and more effective route to the effects of MTF feminization... too large of doses of Estrogen can perhaps be an impediment and might hamper breast growth and perhaps other changes in the long run.
One thing is for sure....
...we should not ever think that our internet Google searches take the place of our doctor's medical degree.Again, thanks for posting your wise thoughts.
Hugs,
Danielle
Quote from: Kirsteneklund7 on March 04, 2019, 04:19:43 AM
Extra estrogen always feels good but my prescibing doctor tells me that one must be careful not to saturate the receptors. If we do the feminisation process grinds to a halt.
Kirsten x
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I am aware of this, and that is the reason that I am talking with my doc about it. I did the double dose (still way less than many take), to find out if E would help me to overcome the absolute loss o energy, and it did.
I feel great currently!
One has to consider that E did mostly nothing to my feminisation process so far, and all the points that make me look feminin were triggered by my intersex condition. Higher E might, in fact, help a little with that process, too.
But I will also discuss this with my endocrinologist.
Quote from: Dietlind on March 04, 2019, 12:30:18 PM
I am aware of this, and that is the reason that I am talking with my doc about it. I did the double dose (still way less than many take), to find out if E would help me to overcome the absolute loss o energy, and it did.
I feel great currently!
One has to consider that E did mostly nothing to my feminisation process so far, and all the points that make me look feminin were triggered by my intersex condition. Higher E might, in fact, help a little with that process, too.
But I will also discuss this with my endocrinologist.
I know you are from a medical background Linde and most likely know more about this than me!
I realize you are using an endocrinologist for this
I would be interested to learn how things pan out for you with hormone blood level and feminization results.
Kirsten x.
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Quote from: Kirsteneklund7 on March 04, 2019, 02:11:48 PM
I know you are from a medical background Linde and most likely know more about this than me!
I realize you are using an endocrinologist for this
I would be interested to learn how things pan out for you with hormone blood level and feminization results.
Kirsten x.
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I will keep you all informed. We are all part of this experiment how to turn an old guy into an old woman (with young boobs)
I still feel not much from estrogen (except seemingly higher energy level with he higher dose) and even more emotions than I had already - call it cry baby!
Spiro and I did not go well with each other, it made me feel lethargic and absolutely listless to do anything
The only positive effect I feel from the orchi is that I don't need to take spiro anymore.
Pain and discomfort were minimal. I exchanged the packing for a maxi pad, because i still have a little wound spotting, which is no wonder from this area that has super high blood supply.
Maxi pads are actually pretty comfy to wear, and done right, I can even create a camel toe appearance with them >:-)!
I should know more with my estrogen by tomorrow. The doc was out and the nurse will ask him tomorrow and let me know.
Quote from: Alaskan Danielle on March 04, 2019, 12:16:36 PM
@Kirsteneklund7
Dear Kirsten:
You are a smart girl for following your doctor's advice regarding the prescribed estrogen. Thank you for sharing this wise advice.
Like many things in life... trying to do things more quickly with a bigger hammer, or in the case of HRT with higher dosages does not always have the desired effect.
There are many reports here on the forums from transitioning members regarding their conversations with their Endo/doctor that "slowly and carefully" while frequently monitoring blood test results, is a safer and more effective route to the effects of MTF feminization... too large of doses of Estrogen can perhaps be an impediment and might hamper breast growth and perhaps other changes in the long run.
One thing is for sure....
...we should not ever think that our internet Google searches take the place of our doctor's medical degree.
Again, thanks for posting your wise thoughts.
Hugs,
Danielle
Hi Danielle,
I think I am a wiser girl these days! In 2015 when my gender identity was unravelling, I was getting desperate and was only getting negative feedback from the medical establishment - I started black market hormones.
Luckily a trans friend of mine pointed me in the direction of a newly opened specialist clinic. Blood tests, endocrinologist, professional advice followed.
I discovered better hormones at better prices with better professional advice !
If I had my time again I would have sought out a prescribing doctor at the start! I never realized how helpful doctors can be if they actually know what trans is !
Yours truly, Kirsten.
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Dear Danielle, Kirsten and Linde
I do not doubt what you state for a minute on this interesting subject of "Increasing E Dosage" such that we should always follow our doctor's/endo's advice as of course we are doing.
I have read many times that saturation can occur if the E dosage is too high making presumably the excess dosage at least pointless and possibly an impediment to further progress.
It appears to be still a learning curve for many in the medical profession as so many factors need to be taken into account in determining and amending E dosages including ones own genetics, other female relatives, method of HRT, previous E&T BT results and timing of BT.
Whereas I agree absolutely about always following medical advice - obviously better still from someone experienced with trans patients - I am truly surprised how different feminization can be for us. Not only do the BT readings vary so much but the degree and timing of feminization varies so much too.
I think we all have much to learn and a good place to learn is from so many of us providing our feminization examples and timing (if we wish to voluntarily) here on Susans' HRT Board and I thank you for that.
Hugs to all
Pamela xx
Quote from: pamelatransuk on March 05, 2019, 04:04:52 AM
Dear Danielle, Kirsten and Linde
I do not doubt what you state for a minute on this interesting subject of "Increasing E Dosage" such that we should always follow our doctor's/endo's advice as of course we are doing.
I have read many times that saturation can occur if the E dosage is too high making presumably the excess dosage at least pointless and possibly an impediment to further progress.
It appears to be still a learning curve for many in the medical profession as so many factors need to be taken into account in determining and amending E dosages including ones own genetics, other female relatives, method of HRT, previous E&T BT results and timing of BT.
Whereas I agree absolutely about always following medical advice - obviously better still from someone experienced with trans patients - I am truly surprised how different feminization can be for us. Not only do the BT readings vary so much but the degree and timing of feminization varies so much too.
I think we all have much to learn and a good place to learn is from so many of us providing our feminization examples and timing (if we wish to voluntarily) here on Susans' HRT Board and I thank you for that.
Hugs to all
Pamela xx
Great post Pamela! Comparing notes on your HRT board is a fantastic resource as well.
I would love to know how trans women progress on a monthly cycling program with progesterone in the mix. I wonder if the natural high of estrogen every month plus the falling away of concentration keeps all the receptors engaged for maximum feminisation ? Also I wonder if the monthly dose of progesterone in the regimen accelerates breast growth?
There must be a transwoman on Susans who could comment on a monthly cycling regimen.
Yours truly & with PMT, Kirsten.[emoji141]
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I am continuing my self experiment, and am on the low "normal" dose of estrogen again since yesterday. I want to see if I go down into the low energy condition again. For me, the best feminizing has no value, if i can't get going to do anything!
I feminized OK without any exterior estrogen, and went the HRT route only to speed the process up a little. That has not happened yet, and now having zero testosterone around, I feel that my hormone level is way to low, in reality , no matter what the endo says, because he has not to live inside my skin!
I might be an absolutely new type person for him (he is supposed to be THE trans endo around the entire area, had even a big newspaper write up), who knows?
I am medically trained well enough to watch for possible signs of problems, and can take immediate counter measures if indicated. But I also know enough about my body (which is used to decades of self experimenting, this is what one does as a first step in the lab, nobody wants to openly admit it) that I can identify any upcoming problems pretty fast, and take appropriate measures.
I think my natural feminizing will continue in it's slow pace until I have finished puberty. It might go even a little bit faster now that there is no testosterone around anymore, but I need additional hormones now, to be able to function.
And that is what the endo has to provide me with!
Thank you Kirsten. You are so kind.
Yes there is indeed a really helpful contact in respect of your cycling query for you. On my "Comparison" thread please see my post dated February 19th. Judith is a very good contact for Progesterone if you wish to check the "Periodlike Symptoms" thread also please.
Hugs
Pamela
Hello Everyone
You may noticed my comment dated March 12th on the "Progesterone is Important" thread here on HRT Board which I now quote:
"Purely by coincidence I decided in February to raise the possibility of starting Progesterone with my Endo mainly for the reason of having no areolae increase but also because I have previously had poor bone density (osteoporosis).
My Endo has been considering taking my medical history and recent Blood tests into account, and I shall be starting on Progesterone (Utrogestan) in the next few days."
Hence my current medication consists of daily Finasteride and Progesterone (meaning not cycled at present), E patches changed after 84 hours and Decapeptyl/Triptorelin injection every 12 weeks.
There are three aspects worthy of note this month. My sense of smell has improved such that I can appreciate the strength of a smell more whether it is pleasant (eg perfume) or unpleasant (unpleasant bodies when I sit close in a room to someone who could have taken more care!). I have continued to feel hungrier especially in the evening with the addition of actually enjoying the food more; before HRT I was mainly eating for the purpose of feeling full whereas now that is secondary to appreciating the taste. Thirdly I feel pains in my boobs in the morning which seems to agree with the customary belief that one gains growth more after 8/9 months and my growth was minor before October but has been significant since October.
I told you last time of the upcoming UK Meet Up which is held biannually in different parts of UK. I was nervous for a couple of weeks before but OTOH I can honestly say I never had the slightest inclination to cancel/ not attend it on Saturday March 16th. For the benefit of those not familiar with the geography of UK, this one was held in Manchester which is in the NW and I also live in the NW in Liverpool and hence only had to make a short journey by train. The weather was atrocious with high winds and rain and flooding for my first trip outside my home city as Pamela. However I did it, travelling as Pamela and meeting so many British Susans Members for lunch and a few drinks afterwards. I thoroughly enjoyed the whole day; I had conquered my nerves before traveling and we had a wonderful time together discussing so much both trans and non-trans related. I made some friends there who gave me great encouragement and support.
This event has given me great confidence to come out and live fulltime as Pamela as soon as my house is sold; I have not had doubts about coming out in Summer for a long time but I knew I had to cross another embarrassment barrier - in my opinion being seen close up on a train is different to being seen in my home town by neighbours or passers by who are not in such close proximity. You can see a photo of the 6 of us who attended on the UK Meet Up 2019 thread on the Transgender Talk Board.
Next update in April when I may see if I have felt anything pursuant to Progesterone (Utrogestan) but I realize that will probably take more time.
Hugs to all
Pamela xx
Pamela,
I'm glad the OTOH went well. Sounds like it really upped your confidence. I happy for you.
I'm going to an trans event in Las Vegas soon and I will be travelling as Julie on the plane. My first time as the real me. I'm nervous but I also can't wait.
thanks for the update.
Julie
Thank you Julie for your kind words of support.
I hope you have a wonderful trip to Las Vegas.
I note your home town is Westminster; there are so many towns and cities in both our great countries which share the same name.
Hugs
Pamela xx
Quote from: pamelatransuk on March 22, 2019, 08:05:09 AM
I hope you have a wonderful trip to Las Vegas.
I note your home town is Westminster; there are so many towns and cities in both our great countries which share the same name.
Pamela,
I think I'll have a fun in vegas. I'm running a couple of the events that happen during the week since I'm trying to put myself out there more to meet people.
Yes, Westminster is used a lot around the world. Here in Westminster, Colorado a lot of our parks are named after cities and sites in England. Probably a sister city thing, maybe.
Take care,
Julie
Hey Julie, I used to live in Northglenn, CO years ago, small world!
Sophia
Quote from: Sophiaprincess2019 on March 22, 2019, 10:13:50 PM
Hey Julie, I used to live in Northglenn, CO years ago, small world!
Sophia
So cool. It's probably changed a lot since. I bike thru the city all the time.
Julie
I got my test results to today, taken about month after my orchi The LabCorp computer must have been wondering what was going on, cause it put the typical female comparisons to my tests results!
I have 1.5 ng/dl of Dihydrotestosterone, and I am low in that, a typical adult female has 4 - 22 ng/dl
I have 5 ng/dl of testosterone, serum, typical would be 3 - 41 g/dl
I have 139. pg/ml Estradiol and am in the ovulation phase of a female which would be 85.8 - 498.0 22 pg/ml
I do think I have to watch out to not get to close with men, because I don't want to get pregnant, being in the ovulation phase and all!
Bumping me up to the double dose of E basically also doubled my Estradiol levels in my blood. I wonder if it would go up by 50% now if I would add 1/3 more dose during the day?
What if I would need to make the decision between the same amount of estrogen with added progesterone, or no progesterone and more estrogen?
Testosterone will not play any role anymore, considering that I am even low for natal female conditions. That seems all my adrenal glans seem to be able to produce, fine with me!
I am really wondering what else the orchi will do for me besides giving me low T and the desire to wear skirts and dresses instead of pants?
My boobs seem to still grow with the same speed they did for several years now (watching grass grow is more exciting and faster paced), they still hurt as they did for quite some time now. At least I can get some mileage out of the bras I am buying!
Thank you Linde for your most interesting post above which I have copied to my "Comparison" thread and I have added your results to the table therein.
I shall be updating this thread with monthly update shortly.
Hugs
Pamela
Hello Everyone
I confirm that I started on Progesterone om March 17th which I take at bedtime and therefore it is probably too early to make definite judgements after 26 days. However I am certainly sleeping both deeper and better- no disturbances and if waking early, I return to sleep immediately.
Generally I am still motivated and the GD is less significant. Having been on HRT 14 months and having experienced more emotions (including joy and sadness and laughing and crying), it still surprises me that the mood can change quicker either from good to bad or vice versa; I feel that the female HRT must cause the speed aswell as the actual change in mood.
Overall I feel that the HRT and my first trip out of my city to the UK Meet Up (see my March Update) have combined to instill in me confidence, not only that I can, but that I SHALL go fulltime Pamela on moving house in Summer.
I intend on my May Update to have a target date and hopefully a definite date to go fulltime.
Thank you reading and hugs to all.
Pamela xx
Quote from: pamelatransuk on April 12, 2019, 08:28:33 AM
Hello Everyone
I confirm that I started on Progesterone om March 17th which I take at bedtime and therefore it is probably too early to make definite judgements after 26 days. However I am certainly sleeping both deeper and better- no disturbances and if waking early, I return to sleep immediately.
Generally I am still motivated and the GD is less significant. Having been on HRT 14 months and having experienced more emotions (including joy and sadness and laughing and crying), it still surprises me that the mood can change quicker either from good to bad or vice versa; I feel that the female HRT must cause the speed aswell as the actual change in mood.
Overall I feel that the HRT and my first trip out of my city to the UK Meet Up (see my March Update) have combined to instill in me confidence, not only that I can, but that I SHALL go fulltime Pamela on moving house in Summer.
I intend on my May Update to have a target date and hopefully a definite date to go fulltime.
Thank you reading and hugs to all.
Pamela xx
That sounds great. Only you can decide when it is time to go full time. some fails are programmed in, because you have to learn how to be a woman. The looks alone is not all of it. But you will learn quickly. it took me a few weeks and I had no passing problems anymore.
Once big factor is confidence, you are a woman and will always be a woman. As long as you remember this, ll will work out great!
It feels really good to be a woman!
You can do it!
Hugs
Linde
Pamela,
Great to hear and thanks for the update.. Sounds like your confidence is really strong, which is great. Keep us posted.
Julie
Thank you Linde and Julie for your kind words.
As you both point out, confidence is indeed the determining factor!
Hugs
Pamela xx
Quote from: pamelatransuk on April 12, 2019, 08:28:33 AM
Hello Everyone
I confirm that I started on Progesterone om March 17th which I take at bedtime and therefore it is probably too early to make definite judgements after 26 days. However I am certainly sleeping both deeper and better- no disturbances and if waking early, I return to sleep immediately.
Generally I am still motivated and the GD is less significant. Having been on HRT 14 months and having experienced more emotions (including joy and sadness and laughing and crying), it still surprises me that the mood can change quicker either from good to bad or vice versa; I feel that the female HRT must cause the speed aswell as the actual change in mood.
Overall I feel that the HRT and my first trip out of my city to the UK Meet Up (see my March Update) have combined to instill in me confidence, not only that I can, but that I SHALL go fulltime Pamela on moving house in Summer.
I intend on my May Update to have a target date and hopefully a definite date to go fulltime.
Thank you reading and hugs to all.
Pamela xx
Hello Pamela,
I am glad your GD is less significant and that you are sleeping better now.
It is great that you will be attending the UK event and your planned full-time status.
Your confidence seems strong and is encouraging I am sure to others too.
Have a great weekend! Hugs.
Chrissy
Thank you Chrissy for your support.
I hope you have a great weekend too.
Hugs
Pamela
Hello Everyone
Unfortunately I am not yet in a position to determine a target date for going fulltime as my house sale is only slowly progressing but I am still intending it to take place in Summer.
Meanwhile I have been buying more clothes mainly in preparation for going fulltime but also of course to utilise in my parttime pursuits! I am getting more familiar with matching items; something that is virtually meaningless for male attire. I am going out "en femme" more often including in my own area and I am sure that I have been noticed by neighbours. I do not know if they have an opinion of what they see as they make no comment either at the time or subsequently. I assume they are indifferent or too busy to care. Only on one occasion to date have I been insulted by someone and I just walked on and ignored him. I am also training myself to walk slower and to appear relaxed in general.
I have told two female cousins of my intentions and they have been supportive and say our friendships will remain as they are at present. I remain motivated and have no doubts on transition now; in fact I am feeling the first signs of impatience in that I cannot go fulltime within the next 4 weeks.
I continue to sleep deeper and better on Progesterone and also I am eating better which may be due to Estradiol; I have never undereaten but I now feel I enjoy my food more.
Things are still "on the up" and I am glad to say I still get pain in the boobs implying further growth there.
Thank you for reading.
Hugs
Pamela xx
I hope your house will sell soon. I was sitting on mine for about 4 months before it sold, but it was worth it, because i got the full asking price for it.
I am now for bout a week on progesterone, and cannot see any changes at all, neither in the length nor the quality of my sleep, or any other changes.
But I can't see any measurable changes of estrogen either, except for my emotions. My boobs seem to grow with the same speed as they did prior to estrogen (watching grass grow is more exciting), and nothing else has changed much either.
I will continue to take progesterone until my pill container is empty, and after that re-asses my results.
Thank you Linde for your kind words.
Needless to say, my next Blood Tests will include that for Progesterone aswell as those for E&T.
Hugs
Pamela
Quote from: pamelatransuk on May 12, 2019, 08:40:30 AM
Hello Everyone
Unfortunately I am not yet in a position to determine a target date for going fulltime as my house sale is only slowly progressing but I am still intending it to take place in Summer.
Meanwhile I have been buying more clothes mainly in preparation for going fulltime but also of course to utilise in my parttime pursuits! I am getting more familiar with matching items; something that is virtually meaningless for male attire. I am going out "en femme" more often including in my own area and I am sure that I have been noticed by neighbours. I do not know if they have an opinion of what they see as they make no comment either at the time or subsequently. I assume they are indifferent or too busy to care. Only on one occasion to date have I been insulted by someone and I just walked on and ignored him. I am also training myself to walk slower and to appear relaxed in general.
I have told two female cousins of my intentions and they have been supportive and say our friendships will remain as they are at present. I remain motivated and have no doubts on transition now; in fact I am feeling the first signs of impatience in that I cannot go fulltime within the next 4 weeks.
I continue to sleep deeper and better on Progesterone and also I am eating better which may be due to Estradiol; I have never undereaten but I now feel I enjoy my food more.
Things are still "on the up" and I am glad to say I still get pain in the boobs implying further growth there.
Thank you for reading.
Hugs
Pamela xx
So good to hear things are going well Pamela. Looking forward to hearing about your transition from part time to full time. I feel like I could learn a lot from your experience.
I know there has always been a persistent & natural feminine basis to your heart & soul & life.
Please keep a running commentary of your first hand experience going from part time to full time.
I tried to transition in 2016. Didn't work. Trying again in 2019, I will keep in touch on Susans as I go.
Just want to say love your efforts on Susans & support you have shown me on this site. I
am a fan of yours Pamela and I look forward to your soon to be realised libertated life.
With support & friendship, Kirsten x
Sent from my SM-G930F using Tapatalk
Pamela,
That for the update about where you are at. Sounds like you are on the right path. I agree that we want things to be sped up when it comes to hurrying things with transition. Plus I'm happy for you that you still have the breast growth pain. I wish I still did. :(
Take care,
Julie
Quote from: Kirsteneklund7 on May 15, 2019, 06:36:11 AM
I know there has always been a persistent & natural feminine basis to your heart & soul & life.
Just want to say love your efforts on Susans & support you have shown me on this site. I
am a fan of yours Pamela and I look forward to your soon to be realised libertated life.
With support & friendship, Kirsten x
Sent from my SM-G930F using Tapatalk
Thank you Kirsten. You are so sweet! I truly appreciate all your comments throughout the forums. You are real friend.
Hugs
Pamela xx
Thank you Julie and wishing you further boob growth!
To the more immediate future, wishing everyone a good weekend.
Hugs
Pamela xx