So I've kinda been thinking a lot lately, and I think I'm ready to go and see a therapist to see whether I can make sense of my scrambled brain. Because obviously I don't want to go into this blind (though I have researched a LOT over the past few years), and at the same time some confirmation of things might serve to inspire me, I guess.

One thing I was wondering is, is it possible to have a kinda, 'trial' period of HRT, to see if I react positively and embrace it? Or is it only prescribed in cases of certainty... my certainty being 98% rather than 100% if you get me.

I'm in the UK if that helps any...

~ Sara

HRT is something that is not to be taken lightly. Either you are ready for it or you aren't ready for it. A therapist won't write a letter of recommendation if you are not entirely sure that you are ready to commit to it.

First off, what is the signicance of #91? Yes, you can get your toes wet before jumping in the pool with minimal risk. rule #1:don't buy sh#t online, even if it's not a scam, you can get it cheaper at wal-mart. Black cohash is the most potent form of phytoestrogen I know of, it's enough to swell you boobs w/o gonig sterile. Menoposile woman take it to stave off off hot flashes. Saw palmeto is the most effective natural anti-androgen I know of that won't make you sterile(both can be found in the vit/sup isle in any grocery store). So yes, you can dip your toes before the big jump. I did it & it is a very useful way of finding out if this what you want to do.

Laura, exactly, I'm pretty sure I'm ready, but was looking for a safe way to test the waters...

Bellaon, there was nothing in your post to offend me, so yeah... thanks for the advice.

And 91? Not sure, but its my birth year...

I would ask what you are looking for to convince you that you are ready?  Actually you should ask yourself that question.

You can start HRT and most if not all of the effects are reversible provided you stop in the first eight months or so.

The anti-androgens (spironolactone, aldatone, and finasteride) for example will reduce your sperm, testosterone, libido, cause testicular shrinkage, and the ability to have an effective erection fairly quickly but if withdrawn in the first eight months the effects will be reversed.  Much beyond that point though and the effects are permanent resulting in chemical castration.

Likewise, estradiol will feminize you by softening your skin, start breast growth, along with loss of body hair.  But if stopped within the first year these effects will reverse, though the breast growth may not completely reverse resulting in gynocomastia, though that can be surgically removed.

So basically, take the plunge and see how you feel during the first six months or so then decide.

If you discuss it openly and honestly with your therapist they would probably agree.

Also, do not self medicate.  You can do your liver serious damage or expose yourself to blood clots if you medicate without proper blood tests.  This must be given with the guidance of an endocrinologist.

I would add that you may never know to 100% certainty that you are doing the right thing.  None of us can.  But if you follow your instinct, you should be fine.

Best of luck!

-Sandy