Many people with lived experienced of gender dysphoria will understand the confusion, frustration and distress that results from their biological sex and gender identity being misaligned. For those affected, everyday life be full of harmful triggers – from being misgendered to being subjected to stigma and discrimination.
For many trans people, hormone treatment can have a transformative effect, not just on their physical appearance but on their mental wellbeing too.
For any trans women currently considering embarking on feminising hormone treatment, the gender specialists at Waterside Clinic are here to discuss the physical and emotional changes you might experience.
Getting it right for you
First and foremost, it is important to recognise what a huge step and long process feminising hormone treatment can be. Here at Waterside Clinic, we take the time to listen to you and thoroughly assess your needs before making any treatment recommendations.
We are committed to ensuring you are fully informed of all the options available to you. All our patients can therefore expect an open discussion about transition goals and expectations, treatment risks and future fertility.
If it is decided that feminising hormone treatment is the right path for you, we would start by carrying out a full medical evaluation and take a series of baseline blood tests to ensure it is safe to commence.
A gradual process
Feminising hormone treatment uses oestrogen and anti-androgens to alter a patient’s physical characteristics. Medication can take the form of oral pills, transdermal gels, patches or injections.
Changes to expect include:
• Softer skin
• Reduced muscle mass
• Fat redistribution to the hips and thighs
• Breast growth
• Slowing of facial and body hair growth
These changes can take months and even years to come into full effect and we offer close clinical supervision every step of the way.
Side effects and the importance of regular check-ups
For many trans women, the physical changes listed above can be positively life-altering. However, it is important to understand that feminising hormone treatment also carries certain risks:
• Increased risk of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism
• Higher risk of high blood pressure, stroke and heart problems
• Increased risk of type 2 diabetes and gallstones
• Weight gain and water retention
• Infertility
• Mood swings
It is therefore essential that patients undergoing feminising hormone treatment attend regular check-ups. Here, the doctor can take blood tests to track hormone levels and monitor things such as blood pressure, liver function and lipids.
These appointments are also vital for checking how you are mentally adjusting to the changes, so that help and support can be offered if necessary.
Speak to the gender experts
If you have questions about your gender or would like to discuss gender-affirming treatment options, you can talk to a specialist in full confidence at Waterside Clinic. Call our friendly team on 0131 202 5314 or email us at hello@waterside.clinic. We’re here to provide help and support, whatever the next step on your journey you decide to take.