Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Easy Guide for MTF & FTM transition

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Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Easy Guide for MTF & FTM transition

What is HRT?

HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) means taking hormones (like estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone) to help the body match your gender identity.

  • It does not work in a few days — changes happen slowly.

  • Some changes are reversible (they can go back if you stop).

  • Some changes are irreversible (they stay even if you stop).

  • Regular blood tests and doctor check-ups are very important.

HRT for Male-to-Female (MTF)

People born male but who identify as female usually take:

  • Estrogen (pills, patches, or injections) → for breast growth, soft skin.

  • Anti-androgens (like spironolactone) → reduce testosterone effects.

  • Progesterone (optional) → sometimes added for breast growth/mood balance.

Timeline of Changes (MTF)

  • 1–3 months: Softer skin, less spontaneous erections, reduced libido.

  • 3–6 months: Breast buds (small breast growth starts), body fat starts moving to hips/thighs, less body hair growth.

  • 6–12 months: Noticeable breast growth, thinner body hair, reduced muscle strength.

  • 2–3 years: Full breast development, feminine body shape, significant reduction in body hair.

Irreversible Changes (MTF)

  • Breast growth

  • Decreased testicle size

  • Reduced sperm production (may cause permanent infertility)

HRT for Female-to-Male (FTM)

People born female but who identify as male usually take:

  • Testosterone (injections, gels, or patches) → for deeper voice, facial hair, muscle growth.

Timeline of Changes (FTM)

  • 1–3 months: Voice starts to deepen, periods become lighter or stop, increased libido.

  • 3–6 months: Noticeable voice deepening, acne/oily skin, muscle mass increases, clitoris enlargement begins.

  • 6–12 months: Facial and body hair growth periods usually stop completely, fat shifts to stomach/upper body.

  • 2–5 years: Full beard (in many cases), strong muscle build, long-term genital changes.

Irreversible Changes (FTM)

  • Deepened voice

  • Clitoral enlargement

  • Increased facial hair (beard/mustache)

  • Male-pattern baldness (if genetically likely)

Why Tests Are Important Before HRT

Doctors usually do tests before starting HRT. These tests make sure your body can safely handle hormones. After starting HRT, tests are repeated every few months.

Blood sugar, Liver & kidney function, Lipid profile, Hormone levels and CBC (blood count).

Challenges in India

  • Limited doctors: Not all hospitals have gender-affirming care.

  • Cost: Injections and medicines can be expensive.

  • Social stigma: Many people face judgment while seeking care.

  • Legal side: The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019 gives recognition, but practical help is still limited.

Final Thoughts

HRT is life-changing. It helps transgender people feel more comfortable in their own skin by aligning body and gender identity. But it must be started only under medical guidance with proper tests and regular follow-ups.

If you are planning HRT in India:

  1. Get a Gender Incongruence Certificate.

  2. Do the required blood tests.

  3. Start HRT with a doctor’s supervision.

  4. Keep monitoring every few months.




                                                                 


Click here to read more https://akesohealth.co.in/

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