Some thoughts about HRT

Hi Peeps,
Hey, I wanted to talk a little about HRT, as it is usually 'the' first biggie that TG's deal with, and it's easy to get excited and often a little impatient. Luckily things are much easier and much more accessible today than they were when I was first needing support, information, and HRT way back in the early 80's. Yes, I really AM that old!  LOL
Back then, in the 'best' scenario, you had to 'beg' for HRT letters from therapists, and when you got them, you then had to beg a doctor to take on your care. It was dismal, but it laid the groundwork for the much broader accessibility we all enjoy today, so I guess it was worth it (although I have to admit I wish it had been like this back when I was 19).
Nowadays, you don't even need a letter to get on HRT with a good doctor, and many doctors are focusing part, and sometimes all, of their practices to specifically care for the transgendered. To me, this is a beautiful thing.
When I was young, for many TG's the 'only' option ended up being black market hormones, something I do NOT condone. Back then it was often the only option, but today that is simply not the case. There is no need to risk your health, and to not be medically supervised while on HRT. You owe it to yourself to do this smart, to care for yourself. Find a doctor you like, and do this right, in the long run you will thank yourself.
But, if you insist on starting out self-medicating, here's a couple of thoughts:


1) - Research the drugs, research the doses, know your own health risks, and read, read, read....  and then do it again!

2) - Source your HRT overseas, like Denmark, or even New Zealand. At least you will be getting regulated medications. I don't recommend sourcing from Mexico or South America, it's not a prejudice thing, it's a simple matter of quality control.

3) - Even if you start self-medicating, be responsible, note any adverse or concerning side effects, and do NOT ignore them!

4) - Okay, you're on your own HRT regimen, now what? GET A DOCTOR !!!! They will be happy to take over your care so you can be monitored correctly. Don't be ashamed, just get under a doctors care as soon as you can, you know you want to ;)

Also, being treated as your correct gender by a doctor can often be a very affirming thing. It kind of makes you feel official.

Anyway, that's all for now loves, more soon...

Amy Within