Transgender hormone therapy, also known as HRT or gender-affirming hormone therapy, involves using hormones to assist transgender individuals with developing physical characteristics that better match their gender identity. There are a few options for obtaining and starting hormone replacement therapy.
The first step is usually speaking with your primary care doctor or family doctor. They can:
- Review your medical history and make sure HRT is appropriate for you
- Explain the different available hormone therapy regimens
- Refer you to an endocrinologist or hormone specialist for further treatment
If your primary doctor is not well-versed in transgender hormone therapy, there are a few other options:
- Contact your health insurance provider and ask for doctors in your plan that have experience with transgender HRT and accepting new transgender patients
- Search online directories like Rad Remedy to find knowledgeable doctors and clinics in your area
- Reach out to local LGBTQ organizations and support groups for recommendations
Some types of medical providers who commonly prescribe HRT are:
- Endocrinologists: Doctors that specialize in hormones and the endocrine system. They have significant expertise with HRT regimens and monitoring hormone levels.
- OB/GYNs: May manage HRT for transgender masculine patients, in addition to routine gynecological care.
- Urologists: May work with transgender feminine patients for HRT and surgical options.
- Specialty LGBTQ health clinics: Health centers that specifically serve LGBTQ patients with services like hormone therapy.
When seeing a doctor for HRT, be prepared to:
- Explain your gender identity, history, and goals for transitioning
- Discuss your medical history and any factors that could impact hormones
- Consent to blood tests to check hormone levels and overall health
- Consider the risks and expected effects of hormone treatment
- Learn self-administration if the regimen involves injections
The provider will work collaboratively with you to determine an appropriate HRT regimen. Options differ for transgender females vs. males but may include:
For transgender women:
-
Estrogen -
Estradiol pills, patches, gel or injections
-
Anti-androgens - Spironolactone pills or injections
-
Progestins (potentially)
For transgender men:
Keep in mind treatment is very personalized. Your doctor will use blood tests to monitor progress and adjust dosages and medications as needed.
Ongoing preventative health screening and care is crucial when undergoing hormone therapy long-term.
If you are located in the Chicago area, Renew Hormone Institute(/) is an excellent clinic specifically focused on LGBTQ hormone therapy and transition care. Their endocrinologists have over 30 years combined experience with gender-affirming HRT. They offer virtual telehealth visits for new patients to review medical history, ask questions, and order labs in preparation for starting HRT.
I hope this overview on the process of accessing and starting hormone replacement therapy was helpful! Please let me know if you have any other questions.
