FTM Hormone Therapy: A Comprehensive Overview for Transgender Men
Aug 30
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For individuals who are assigned female at birth but identify as male, and wish to change their physical appearance to resemble a male as closely as possible, masculinizing hormone therapy becomes very important for transgender men. The use of male hormones like androgen and testosterone works to supplement male hormones while reducing or eliminating the previously existing female hormones. This gradual reduction and replacement process stimulates the rise of male hormones, leading to physical changes such as increased muscle mass, a more masculine appearance, more body hair, and the reduction or complete cessation of menstruation. Most people notice changes after starting masculinizing hormone therapy within six months or more.
How Can You Begin Masculinizing Hormone Therapy?
Before starting masculinizing hormone therapy with androgens and testosterone, a thorough health examination is required. This includes checking the overall readiness of your body for hormone therapy. Additionally, it is necessary to consult with a psychiatrist who can assess your mental health and help ensure that you are confident in your decision to undergo physical changes to resemble a man. This step is crucial to distinguish whether you genuinely want to transition physically or if you are simply experiencing attraction to women without being certain about making such a significant change to your body.
What Are the Methods of Administering Masculinizing Hormone Therapy?
Currently, there are three main methods for administering masculinizing hormone therapy. The appropriate method depends on the individual's body and needs. Below are the different methods of administering testosterone:
Oral Pills: This is a simple and convenient method, as the pills can be taken daily at home without needing to visit a clinic. However, you need to take several pills daily to achieve effects comparable to injections. The advantage is convenience, but the downside is that results are slower, and it can have negative effects on the liver.
Topical Gel or Cream: This method involves applying testosterone to the skin, where it is absorbed into the bloodstream and takes effect. Typically, it's applied to areas that are less likely to be touched and have minimal hair, such as the abdomen. The advantage is that it is non-invasive and pain-free, but the drawback is the need for daily application, and it tends to be more expensive.
Injections: This is one of the most popular methods, providing the best results. Once injected, the body absorbs the hormone directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the liver. There are two types of injections:
Short-acting injections: These are administered every two weeks. The advantage is that the dosage can be easily adjusted, making it more flexible. It's also more affordable. However, it requires frequent clinic visits, which can be time-consuming.
Long-acting injections: These are administered every three months. The advantage is quicker results, often noticeable within six months, and less frequent clinic visits. The hormone levels also remain more stable. However, the downside is that the dosage and amount cannot be adjusted as easily as with short-acting injections.
Preparing for Masculinizing Hormone Therapy
Physical Preparation: It is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle by exercising regularly and ensuring your overall health is in good condition. Blood test results should be within a healthy range before starting hormone therapy.
Mental Preparation: Your mental state should be ready to embrace the changes that come with transitioning, and you must be confident in your decision to undergo masculinizing hormone therapy and fully commit to becoming a transgender man.
At Menness Wellness, before starting hormone therapy with androgens and testosterone, our medical team will conduct a thorough health examination, checking for any pre-existing conditions. Additionally, we offer psychological counselling with a psychiatrist to ensure that you are truly ready to begin hormone therapy and fully understand the implications of the transition process.
Results After Starting Masculinizing Hormone Therapy
Permanent Changes: Once you start masculinizing hormone therapy, certain physical changes will become permanent. These include a deeper voice, increased muscle mass, a reduction in some areas of body fat, and an enlargement of the clitoris.
Non-Permanent Changes: Some changes will revert if hormone therapy is discontinued. These include the cessation of menstruation, which gradually returns, increased body and facial hair, increased muscle mass, and potential weight gain. Some individuals may also experience side effects such as hair thinning or male-pattern baldness.
Physical changes from hormone therapy typically become noticeable after 3 to 6 months of continuous use.
Self-Care After Starting Hormone Therapy
Strictly follow your doctor's instructions and attend all scheduled medical check-ups.
Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.
Limit foods high in fat and sugar.
If you experience emotional or psychological difficulties, consult your healthcare provider for support.
Follow-Up Care After Starting Masculinizing Hormone Therapy
After beginning masculinizing hormone therapy, your doctor at Menness Clinic will schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your health and ensure that the hormone is effectively being absorbed by your body and impacting your physical health as expected. These evaluations typically occur every 3 to 6 months to assess changes, observe any symptoms, and detect potential complications. Hormone levels will also be tested, and your doctor may adjust the dosage up or down depending on what is appropriate for your individual situation.
It is important not to self-administer hormones by purchasing them without a prescription or medical guidance. This carries significant health risks, especially if your body is not being regularly monitored, or if you are using doses higher than necessary. Such practices can negatively impact vital organs and your overall health. To ensure your safety and minimize side effects, it is essential to consult with a doctor at Menness Clinic, who can provide the correct dosage, follow up on your progress, and closely monitor your health.
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