Hi everyone

I started taking anti-androgens only (<Not Permitted> cyproterone acetate) one month ago. I wasn't taking estrogens at this time because I was waiting after some procedures. I basically started anti-androgens early, because of severe acnea.
After one month it wasn't gone so last week I asked my endocrinologist to increase the dose to <Not Permitted> for the first months of my transition. I also started taking estrogens last week.
Because I was taking double the dose of cypro, I wanted to start with a low dose of estrogens because of the vascular risks. My doctor prescribed me <Not Permitted> of estradiol per day for one month, then <Not Permitted>/day (which is slightly less than what my trans friends take).

My question is: is there a risk that my breasts don't develop as much/well because of the low dose, or will they just grow slower?

Thanks


Mode Edit Dosage information removed

Hi Lcleo,

Breast size is ultimately determined by genetics, so lower doses will only affect the rate of growth.  Speaking of doses, those are not allowed on this site.  You can talk about hormone blood levels, or personal development, but not dosages.

I started on spironolactone and finasteride, and was then started on estradiol patches a few weeks later.  I am on what could be considered "low dose", and I have already seen some breast development after three months.

As my endocrinologist keeps telling me, "be patient!".

With kindness,

Terri

Slow growth is better. I have fast growth and I have stretch marks now.

Welcome to Susan's Place. Breast development can take place as most any hormone level as shown by man boobs but time, hormone level and genetics all figure into how fast and how much you will develop. In my case, I had years to develop but I missed out on the genetics resulting in a A+ cup size.

Comparing dosage levels with others isn't a good way to determine if you are receiving the correct dosage. The levels in you blood stream and liver function are. If you liver is unable to handle the dosage you are receiving, you risk your life by continuing a high dosage In addition, some people retain sex hormones better than other and can take a reduced level while still maintaining high enough levels in their system for proper development.

Talk to your doctors about your test results and that will confirm if your levels are high enough and still within the safe area for your body.

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My endo has set our targets for blood levels and things are getting there, but we also discussed that it is not really a numbers game as much as clinical.  We are after results.  There will be results at lower levels and as the receptors come alive, it will end up being what it is.  It really is an exercise in patience as all good things take time

I did low dose for a long time, and had problems with breast development. It could just be me or my age, so I can't say it was low dose, but perhaps it was.

I have read before others saying low dose is not good, but you can find any opinion if you read enough on Internet.

Breast Development takes a bit of time so patience is key. I understand your concerns - however, it will grow but set a realistic expectation that some develop faster and some slower. I've been on HRT for more than a year and the growth has slowed in recent weeks (i think) due to the lack of symptoms. I am cap A so far and hoping I could reach a B within the next few months or years.

Hugs

Quote from: iKate on November 22, 2015, 08:57:34 AM
Slow growth is better. I have fast growth and I have stretch marks now.

Thank you for this observation - I am so impatient to see rapid growth but perhaps my slow pace is for the best.

I started low and have moved up steadily - primarily because I was not seeing or feeling anticipated changes.  The dosage, however is not as important though as the estradiol levels as measured in you blood serum. This is the key. Each of us will need to find the level that works for us and this may take time.  Also, age plays a major factor in how our bodies absorb the hormones and the method of delivery is also a factor.   

The basic receptor site theory goes something like this. Too much is not good, they get lazy. Too much E can be counter productive. Depending on the endo target blood E levels can vary widely. I don't think there is a firm concensous beyond over 600-800 pG/mL is getting too high.

There is "Low Dose" and then there is low dose. Back in the day, endos gave out much higher doses then today it seems. Over the decades I went on low dose HRT several times for a much needed "Brain Reset". Low dose HRT is a recognized option. A little E can go a long way emotionally. I believe this can be done for years without any secondary sex changes. As always YMMV.

Thank you all for your replies, I'm reassured

I always like to say that this is na most amazing an wonderful magik trik of all tyme, sit bak an enjoy it.