How long do you have to be in therapy before HRT?
It could go 2 or 3 years before you’d have any access to [hormone] therapy. The SOC acknowledge that it’s unethical to try to change someone’s gender identity, and they don’t require a year or more of therapy before you can get hormones—one or two visits is fine, as long as the therapist you’re seeing is comfortable.
Does it take time to get used to HRT?
It usually takes a few weeks before you will feel the initial benefits of HRT and up to three months to feel the full effects. It may also take your body time to get used to HRT. When treatment begins you may experience side effects such as breast tenderness, nausea and leg cramps.
What do I need to know before HRT?
If you have answered yes to any of these questions, you may be a candidate for HRT.
- Have you had a heart attack?
- Do you have high blood pressure or diabetes?
- Have you ever had a stroke?
- Have you ever had a blood clot in your extremities or lung?
- Have you had breast cancer?
- Have you had uterine canceror memory loss?
How long do you need to be on estrogen before you start noticing differences?
How soon will I notice changes in my body? The speed at which changes occur depends on various factors. These include the dose and your body’s response. For most people, it takes 18 to 24 months to achieve the full effect.
Do you need therapy before transitioning?
According to the commentary, the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) advises mental health screenings and recommends psychotherapy before any body modifications are made. However, such decisions could be made on a case-by-case basis.
How can I get started on HRT?
How to get started on HRT. Speak to a GP if you’re interested in starting HRT. You can usually begin HRT as soon as you start experiencing menopausal symptoms and will not usually need to have any tests first. A GP can explain the different types of HRT available and help you choose one that’s suitable for you.