Telling professionals/doctors

[acidonangles]

I'm starting testosterone soon and was wondering if I should tell my eye doctor I see tomorrow. Just in general should I tell doctors, care givers, and professionals that I'm trans. In your experience did they use your birth pronouns and name of your name and pronouns?

[FTMax]

In general, if it's someone you intend to continue interacting with during and after your transition, I'd let them know. You don't really know what changes you'll get on T or how fast you'll get them. As long as you're comfortable doing it, I'd let them know in advance so that they can update your records and hopefully not be as surprised when you come in looking sufficiently more masculine in a few weeks/months.

If there are other options where you live and you aren't attached to any of the medical people in your life, you could always take this as an opportunity to switch providers and start fresh as long as your name has been legally changed.

[Mariah]

It's always best to make sure all those in charge of your care know once you have started the medical portion of your transition. Especially HRT and after. This way if your having any issues regardless if they are related to your transiktion or not they have all the facts to work with. Good luck and Hugs
Mariah

[acidonangles]

I figured as much. I just wanted to check to make sure :] Thank you

[kittenpower]

I figured as much. I just wanted to check to make sure :] Thank you

I'm always out and open with healthcare professionals, and they've always been respectful.

[youngbuck]

To provide an alternate perspective, I disclose only when that information is relevant to the care I'm seeking. My optometrist and dentist have no idea I'm trans even though I started seeing them when I was pre-T, because quite simply, I don't feel they need to know. That aspect of my medical history has nothing to do with my eyes or teeth.

However, my GP, dermatologist, and of course endocrinologist are all aware of my status since it directly affects the care they give and provides important context. If I had to hit up the ER, I'd absolutely let them know as well. But I don't think medical professionals across the board necessarily HAVE to know.