Hormones

[Alana1990]

I've been thinking about hormones recently. I'm not interested in transitioning to female, but, the idea of having a more feminine shape, which is something I've always wanted. I'm genuinely interested to see how I would feel if I took hormones. My work schedule is a bit wonky for the next week, but I'm considering calling my doctor and talking to him about it.

[KathyLauren]

By all means talk to your doctor.  If you do take hormones, doing so under a doctor's supervision is much safer than doing it on your own.  If you are not already seeing a gender therapist, I would highly recommend it.

You may not think of it as "transition", but taking female hormones will start a physical transition in your body.  What will typically happen is skin softening and breast growth.  Eventually, your body hair (but not facial hair) might start to change.  You won't get significant changes in body shape other than breasts.

[Alana1990]

By all means talk to your doctor.  If you do take hormones, doing so under a doctor's supervision is much safer than doing it on your own.  If you are not already seeing a gender therapist, I would highly recommend it.

You may not think of it as "transition", but taking female hormones will start a physical transition in your body.  What will typically happen is skin softening and breast growth.  Eventually, your body hair (but not facial hair) might start to change.  You won't get significant changes in body shape other than breasts.

@KathyLauren, I do see a gender therapist. I actually had a session with her today, and brought this up with her.

[Lori Dee]

Alana,

I agree with Kathy 100%. What you need to understand is that everyone transitions in their own way. Some will not take hormones, some only hormones, and some will want more (surgery). Only you can decide what is right for you AND you can change your mind later.

Maybe after trying hormones for a year, you might decide you want to try adding something else, maybe a name change, or a change of hairstyle. It is your life and no one can live it for you.

If you try the hormones route first, understand that once you have been on them for six months, things start to become permanent. Use that time to see how you feel, and how you feel about the changes that are happening. Do not be afraid to pull the plug and decide medical transitioning is not for you. It isn't what everyone wants or needs.

Definitely talk to your doctor. They can tell you more about what to expect, what the risks are for your medical history, and any warning signs that it isn't right for you. Ask a lot of questions so you understand it well.

The first step is always the biggest and the scariest. But it can also be the most fun and exciting!

[Nadine Spirit]

I wish that I would have realized that one can try changing their hormones and if they don't like it they can stop. Yes after awhile changes become permanent, but there is plenty of time to stop before that happens.

[Lori Dee]

When I first started, my doctor gave me a 30-day supply along with all the warnings that if it didn't feel right, if I got moody, depressed, or even suicidal to stop immediately. I felt great, so we went with a 90-day supply. When I asked to renew my prescription, they warned me that continuing would make some changes almost irreversible. I said, "Good! Sign me up!"