Finally taking steps...

[Sam79]

Hi all,

A bit of an update from me. So I've been lurking for a while since the last time I posted and have been doing a LOT of thinking. To keep this shorter than it would otherwise be, after a discussion with my wife we both realised I need to look at getting treatment to help (at least) battle the dysphoria.

I'm pleased to say I've now taken that first step and told my GP and to my surprise she didn't hesitate in referring me to a GIC. I have to get my blood work done on Thursday and look to which GIC I want to be referred.

Does anyone have any guidance they could share about their experiences with the various GIC's in the UK? xx

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[Jessica_Rose]

I can't help you with GIC's in the UK, but I want to congratulate you on taking such a huge step. Having a supportive spouse and involving her in decisions from the beginning is HUGE. I wish you all the best on your journey, wherever it may lead.

[Megan.]

Hey Sam,  welcome!

Firstly you look fab! Secondly welcome to the NHS GIC machine!

I go to the CX GIC, though there are several, if you're unsure, you might ask your GP which one they've reffered you to,  as each have their own wait lists with differing delays,  though all long.

The 'typical' process will involve a long wait, then a two stage initial assessment by a psychotherapist and then a psychiatrist, typically 6 months apart. If they both agree, got can then go forward onto HRT (you will need to be full-time or darn close). A year living full-time and in HRT, you can then (if you desire) have two further assessments to get the signatures reqired for referal for GRS.

Along this journey there are funding requests for facial hair removal. And opportunities to request vocal training and  some therapy if you desire.

Megan. X

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[Shambles]

Hi! I was reffered to nottingham in jan, though my gp didnt ask for any bloodtests first. The wait time there is a min of 2 years but elsewhere ive hurd upwards of 4 years, do your homework before decidig on where as it may have big implications on wait times for you

Btw i love your pic x

[pamelatransuk]

Hello Sam

I decided not to go down NHS route due to the long waiting times. Although I greatly appreciate our NHS, it is sadly understaffed as regards Transgender matters.

Consequently I and several other members of Susans chose the private route GenderGP whom I can thoroughly recommend for all aspects - therapy, hormones and contacts for surgery. Also their admin is very good and all initial advice is free. Providing their counsellors agree you are suitable for HRT, it is granted without the need to dress in public beforehand.

I wish you the best on your journey.

Pamela

[Sam79]

Thank you all so much for your advice and kind words.

I think for me the Sheffield GIC is the front runner, firstly it's the closest and also the initial waiting list is running at 65 weeks (not to bad). I'm not sure about going private, it may be too expensive also it may be progressing this way may be too fast for my wife to handle it's baby steps all the way. xx

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[nikkiannukts]

Sam,

Welcome to our collective!   I, like you, have been a lurker here and similarly have recently taken more positive steps to manage my dysphoria.  My wife is obviously concerned but recognises that we can't go on as we are.

My GP surgery is frankly useless so I too have opted for the GenderGP route and am just starting HRT with them.   I cannot recommend them highly enough as they have been incredilbly caring and professional and I suspect it is likely that I will continue on the private route.

Good luck with the GIC - I have a friend who is being treated by that GIC and has had good experiences so far.

I am based in the south of the UK so our GIC choices are quote limited.

Good Luck,

Nikki

[Sam79]

Thanks Nikki, I'll look into GenderGp a bit more I think.

I've just changed GP practice since my old one had NO resident doctors! My experience of the new practice so far is good.

On another note, if I do head down the NHS route it gives me just over a year to actively work on my femininity. I've got to train that manly denial thing outta me. Plus I can work on majorly reducing my body hair. xx

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[Sam79]

Hi all,

A quick update, I've had my first letter from the GIC. I've been invited to have a screening interview, anybody know what I should expect? xx

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[LucyEgo]

Hi Sam.

You're MtF waiting on GIC I assume? I can't help, but I'm sure you'll appreciate the bump.

The one thing which has been an eye opener for me, is how radiant and beaming people look on their correct gender. It's beautiful.

I'm interested in hearing more on this "manly denial" thing you refer to? I think I have loads of that.

Lucy

[Sam79]

Thanks Lucy, yes I am MtF trans.

Yeah the denial thing is improving (fading) every day. I'm working on not acting like the man people see, generally being more thoughtful about things before I act and learning to embrace my feminity. xx

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[Sam79]

A quick update, had my screening interview with the GIC. For those who may have one coming up it was completely painless. It is there simply a method so that the staff there could learn a bit about you ahead of your first appointment. Secondly it acts as a Q&A session, so don't be scared to ask anything that is concerning you.

For me the wait is shorter than I'd expected around 16 months from referral (May). Also I'd read a few reports that hormones would not be prescribed until 2 years RLE had been completed, this is not true.

Anyway gives me time to get things in order. xx

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[pamelatransuk]

Hello again Sam

Nice to see things are progressing for you.

Hugs

Pamela

[Sam79]

Thanks Pamela. xx

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