What do they test for?

[Nightowl5]

I've been talking to a therapist and she says my next session should be the last before she gives me my letter for hrt, and I was wonder what doctors test for when they do blood work before you get your prescription.

I don't know if it matters, but I'm mtf.

[Deborah]

Mine tests for testosterone and estradiol plus a complete blood count and comprehensive metabolic panel.  Once in a while she orders a lipid test and once a prostate specific antigen test.  I don't think there is a standard lists of tests so this will vary by Dr.

With my Dr and all these tests it's almost like getting a complete physical every six months.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Dena]

Welcome to Susan's Place. The blood test check for anything that would be tested in a normal physical but there is a bit more interest in liver function as hormones can place additional stress on the liver. Additional test may include testosterone, estradiol and total estrogen. The tests normally don't include checks for drug usage unless the doctor suspects something. If you are using any substance, the doctor should be made aware of them as it could alter the treatment you receive.

A Cautionary Note:
This is a public forum so please remember when posting that The Internet Never Forgets, and the various web crawlers and archival sites out there may retain information that you post.

We cannot ensure that any information you share on the site will be protected from public view and/or copying or reproduction. This warning is also listed in the Terms of Service listed below.

If you give out personal information on Susan's you are responsible for any consequence.


I also want to share some links with you. They include helpful information and the rules that govern the site.  It is important for your enjoyment of the site to take a moment to go through them

Things that you should read

Site Terms of Service & Rules to Live By	Standard Terms & Definitions	Post Ranks (including when you can upload an avatar)
Reputation rules	News posting & quoting guidelines	Photo, avatars, & signature images policy

[Nightowl5]

Sorry about that. I actually didn't realize what it sounded like until you mentioned it.

[Dena]

Years of programming computer cured me of tunnel vision and as the result, I often find myself reading between the lines. I wasn't sure exactly why you asked the question so to make sure I touched on all your concerns, I expanded on my answer. I few times I have posted information on this site that has been misinterpreted and I often find my self spending an excessive amount of time writing a response so  it doesn't happen to me again.