Susan's Place Transgender Resources

Community Conversation => Transitioning => Hormone replacement therapy => Topic started by: Kara Jayde on April 21, 2014, 11:10:37 PM

Title: Requesting bloodwork / what to look for?
Post by: Kara Jayde on April 21, 2014, 11:10:37 PM
Hi all ^_^
So I'm on the waiting list to see the psyche, and I thought that maybe I could streamline the process a little by getting my bloodwork done from now, so I might request it done by my GP today when I go in. My question is, do I just ask her to check my T and E levels? Or is there more to look out for? I'm going through my GP and I'll probably avoid an Endo unless I really need one (the local ones haven't been highly recommended) but since my GP is new to this, I'd like to help her by telling her exactly what to request in the blood test.

Thanks :)
Title: Re: Requesting bloodwork / what to look for?
Post by: immortal gypsy on April 21, 2014, 11:27:01 PM
I'm using a clinc in Sydney but the doctors there have had more experience. However I think it is a general blood test also looking at your T and E levels, (I know they look at your potassium levels because I always get told off for mine being too low, and your sodium levels).

Sorry I couldn't be more helpfull
Title: Re: Requesting bloodwork / what to look for?
Post by: xponentialshift on April 21, 2014, 11:30:25 PM
My doctor (she sees mostly trans patients and is basically an endo in all but name) told me that most do not check for base hormone levels pre hrt anymore unless you present with symptoms for something that could effect them. She had me get typical blood panel with blood cell counts and cholesterol and fasting glucose, and a few other things in the metabolism panel.
Title: Re: Requesting bloodwork / what to look for?
Post by: Kara Jayde on April 21, 2014, 11:41:08 PM
Alright, thanks. I was thinking of asking for the base blood test, with T and E levels, as well as potassium and liver function, because that's what I've picked up around here so far.

I'd like to see my own hormone levels pre-hrt, because I may have strange levels to begin with. My voice never really cracked as a teen, and my body is a little more feminine than most guys I know in its fat placement (thighs, butt, as opposed to just gut) but I also have very thick body hair and facial hair, so no idea. Maybe I have normal levels but maybe I've always had strange levels?

Title: Re: Requesting bloodwork / what to look for?
Post by: teeg on April 21, 2014, 11:55:10 PM
I think it's quite beneficial to get your pre-HRT levels checked. This can help as a potential guide for your Endocrinologist to determine how much or how little of whichever medication you may need. Take control of your healthcare.