What to Expect?

[pianoflute2]

So I called the local LGBTQ+ resource center and they sent me a list of medical providers in the area, and I called and set up an informed consent HRT appointment for Izzy. What should we expect from this appointment? They said it's an hour long and that there will be labs after, but other than that I have no idea what to expect!

[Dena]

They will make sure that Izzy understands what she is getting into  and will need to sign paperwork confirming this. They may wait until the lab results have been returned before starting HRT. It's nothing to fear so tell Izzy to relax and tell the truth. They may also ask Izzy question about her past so they are comfortable with how Izzy feels about this.

[IdontEven]

They'll go over the ramifications and possible risks of HRT, do a quick physical exam, stuff like that. They gave me my first breast exam at mine, which was a little weird in principle, the actual exam wasn't bad at all. They may ask somewhat probing questions, but if there's anything Izzy doesn't want to answer she doesn't have to. The whole point of informed consent is there are no gatekeepers. If the form is signed then they have(?) to provide treatment.

If they didn't say anything, you're not supposed to eat after midnight the night before the appointment so they get your fasting...uh...blood...thing...Nobody told me so I had to go to a different lab place the next day to get mine done.

All in all the scariest part of the experience, by far, was the fear of the unknown leading up to it. Izzy will be fine

[pianoflute2]

Thank you guys so much! This information is really helping Izzy (and I) feel less anxious. She's wondering if, besides the not eating, if there's anything else she might need to do to prepare?

[Cindy]

One thing that can help, considering Izzy may be very nervous. Is to write out her 'story'. That can then be handed over or be used to talk from.

[spx_1112]

First breast exam and mammogram we're definitely different not awkward but different I felt very feminine during my exams.  I was gowned and treated as Shannon.