The "Things to do before HRT" inspired me to make a thread for FTMs. Once we've had therapy and gotten a referral letter what are some things we can do before HRT to improve the results. I'm just going to put some ideas in point form, can you help compile a list?
reach ideal weight
supplements?
pumps (to increase penis size)
gain muscle
stop smoking/drinking
Anything that will help including points about health, appearance, family...
My list of things to do:
-Make sure I can pass somewhat in public pre-t
-Try and reach my ideal weight
-Get into the habit of at least exercising 30 minutes a day
-Get healthier
-Tell my parents I'm transgendered
-Become financially independent and stable
-Go to a therapist to make sure T is the right thing for me
-Get the letter
-Go get my prescription
-Celebrate
On gaining muscle: you may find this is quite frustrating pre-T - it's unbearably slow. But if you can just make sure you're in reasonably decent shape and at a healthy weight, you can start serious strength training when you start T and see the results almost right away. I'm on day 5 of the lowest possible dose of T, I've only worked my upper body twice since starting, and I've gained 1/4 inch on my biceps already.
Mainly, the stuff I had to make sure I took care of:
- Telling all the people who are important in my life. My dad, my husband, my close friends. Everyone else can find out or figure out in good time, but there are some people who deserve to know beforehand.
- Developing a presentable wardrobe. I didn't go all-out on the most expensive, long-lasting clothes I could get because I know I'll be slowly changing shape for a long time. But I got the basics, in a fit that has enough breathing room for some shape changes.
- Researching so that I'd know what to ask for and what to expect. For instance, when I researched the effect of T on voice, I decided I wanted to start on a low dose because my voice is important to me.
- Making sure I had stable finances and a stable living situation.