Okay, so this is my first post. I'm Tae (MtF) and I've just begun HRT at 33. If this post is in the wrong spot, please feel free to move it.
There are lots of stories about how bad it is to transition in South Australia - lack of resources, information, places to go, gatekeeping, etc.
Also, this was the first thing I read about being transgender in South Australia too, and let me tell you, it scared me how long it was supposed to take, and how complicated:
https://www.->-bleeped-<-.com/r/transgenderau/comments/3qj7cw/how_to_be_transgender_in_south_australia_tags/
((disregard all information in the above link and take a deep breath of relief))
So I'm here to tell you that isn't necessarily the case. I decided to start looking into Transitioning medically only 2 months ago. If anyone here is from Australia and specifically from South Australia, you may find that really surprising.
And yes, I did go through the legal loopholes of seeing a Psychiatrist (saw him on the 30th of July) and an Endocrinologist (Seen on the 8th of August), so I am doing this all by the book. No self medicating here. I had a friend (FtM) who was starting to transition at the same time, so we shared the load of finding out this information
Okay, so this how We did it, and how you can too:
((note: this isn't just MtF. It also applies to FtM. Also it may help you if you're in different states.))
1a)
Do your research and self reflection. Make sure you want to make this step in your life. Research what is involved, timelines, what drugs are commonly used, their side effects, etc. Do this research a lot, it'll help your peace of mind and will help you with your GP and Endocrinologist appointments. Knowledge is Key.
1b)
If you're in a different state (to South Australia), call up the endocrinologists that deal with transgender people in your area (yes, call them first) and ask them the following questions (and write them down):
- Do you mind if I ask you some questions in regards to starting Transgender hormone therapy?
- Is there a Psychiatrist you recommend to make this process as quick as possible?
- How much will a consultation cost?
- What Blood tests will I need to take before seeing you?
2a)
Make a GP appointment.
If you have a GP you normally go to, go to them. If not, find a place that bulk bills around you and ask to make an appointment with a Doctor who doesn't have an issue with Transgender People.
2b)
When your appointment rocks up, Tell them:
- You are Transgender and you want to start hormone replacement therapy
- If they could please write you some referrals.
Say it with confidence and this is where your research comes in handy. You will, by this point, know what you want, and most likely know more than your GP about processes.
If you are in South Australia, these are the referrals you want:
Psychiatrist:
Dr Norman Shum
Address: 43 Hauteville Terrace, Eastwood SA 5063
Phone: (08) 8373 2300
Endocrinologist:
Dr Rosemary Jones
Address: 183 Tynte St, North Adelaide SA 5006
Phone: (08) 8239 1988
Also make an appointment to have whatever bloodtests the endocrinologist recommends if you rang them first. Otherwise come back and make another appointment after you've made your bookings with the Endo. Sorry, I can't remember what blood tests were required of me.
3a)
Book the Psychiatrist. They will give you plenty of details of what to bring, costs, etc.
3b)
Book the Endocrinologist. I know what you're thinking - That is pretty confident of you to assume you'll only need one session with the Psych. But here is the thing: Your Endo will not supply you with any scripts or anything until you have Psych Approval. But they will have a initial consultation which can last a while. You May be able to get your initial consultation while you're still going through Psych.
So when you book, tell them that you have an appointment with (Psych) and that you would like to get your initial consultation out of the way in the mean time. Try and book for a week or so after your Psych apt so you can get any blood tests you need, also it gives time for your approval letter to get through to the endo if all goes well.
4a)
See the Psychiatrist!
Okay, big step. Things are happening!
I wont tell you what happens in the Psychiatrist session - You're not trying to "beat the system" here. Just be yourself. Be honest. You know what you want and that is to transition.
I only required one session with my Psychiatrist, as did my friend, but don't just assume that is standard. We (my friend and I) Are both in our early 30's, have had kids, and are pretty comfortable in our trans-ness. If you're young (I know, it sucks, but this is a big gatekeeping point in South Australia) or uncertain, you may be required to have more than one session.
So in regards to Dr Shum:
He is relatively new at the whole transgender thing and not fully up to date on terminology, but he is empathetic and is very good at what he does.
It is a $120 upfront cost to see him - in cash.
Have your medicare card and healthcare card (if you have one)
4b)
See the Endo! Holy crap! Nearly there!
Okay, so this is where your research pays off. Hopefully you will have done your research because you may actually have a choice with the hormones you want to take (I don't know if you have a choice with Testosterone, but I had a choice with the MtF hormones). The Endo apt may feel like a mini psych appointment, so be prepared for that.
In regards to Dr Jones:
She is... an interesting character. I honestly couldn't read her face for conversation cues, so there was that. She is a little old fashioned, but like Dr Shum, she is Empathetic and knows what she is doing. If you want to try out a certain anti-androgen, talk to her about it and go from there. Her standard prescription is (for MtF) oestrogen pills only in an increasing dosage for a certain time, then introduce Anti-androgens (standard for her is Androcur (Cyproterone acetate)). That will continue for a bit more then she'll push for oestrogen implants. With FtM, her standard prescription appears to be a syringe to the leg.
Initial appointment cost is $180, with a $73 medicare refund.
5)
I guess enjoy your life. I am so happy I only needed one visit for Psych and Endo. Seriously, the appointments took less time than the research. Please don't be discouraged by long waiting times. There is always a better way around. I hear Dr Lyons in South Australia has a 2 year waiting list. So no thanks on that.
I will stress again that my friend and I may have had an easier time due to our age and life experience, but please consider following what I suggested.
I Hope this is of a help to not just people in South Australia.
Hi Tae 🙋♀️ Welcome to Susan's Place! I'm Jessica.
There are a number of members in Australia. They can be a very helpful group here. I wouldn't doubt that they will comment themselves.
I see your new here, so I'll post some links that may help you get better acquainted with the site. Pay attention to the site rules they can be of great help and don't forget the link highlighted red. It has answers to questions that are commonly asked. Then join in on a topic you find interesting and learn and share.
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