Masculinizing Hormone Therapy

Masculinizing hormone therapy uses testosterone to induce physical changes that align with masculine characteristics. Estrogen blockers can also used to suppress the effects of estrogen, although testosterone alone is usually enough to suppress estrogen levels.

Hormones Used in Masculinization

Testosterone: The primary hormone for developing masculine characteristics. It can be taken through injections, patches, gels, or oral medications.

Estrogen Blockers: These medications can be used to reduce the effects of estrogen, complementing the effects of testosterone. This is usually only needed when testosterone alone does not fully suppress estrogen.

Medication	Medication Selection	Plan	Medication Name	Dosage	Supply
Testosterone	Gel	Low Dose	Testosterone Transdermal Gel 50 MG/5GM (1%)	half a sachet a day	30 sachets last two months
	Gel	High Dose	Testosterone Transdermal Gel 50 MG/5GM (1%)	one sachet a day	30 sachets last one month
	Injection	Low Dose	Testosterone Cypionate Intramuscular Solution 100 MG/ML	1ml every 1 week	4* 1ml vials last one month
	Injection	High Dose	Testosterone Cypionate Intramuscular Solution 100 MG/ML	1ml every 2 weeks	2* 1ml vials last one month
Blocker	Expensive	High Dose	Lupron Depot (1-Month) Intramuscular Kit	3.75mg every 4 weeks	Once every 28 days
Blocker	Cheap	High Dose	Raloxifene HCl Oral Tablet 60mg	1 a day	28 or 30 tablet pack size

The Physical Changes

Masculinization hormone therapy leads to various changes, which include but are not limited to:

Facial and Body Hair Growth: One of the first noticeable changes is the increase in facial and body hair.
Voice Deepening: Testosterone usually causes a deepening of the voice within a few months.
Increased Muscle Mass and Body Fat Redistribution: There’s often an increase in muscle mass and a shift in body fat distribution for a more masculine shape.
Menstrual and Reproductive Changes: Testosterone therapy typically leads to the cessation of menstrual periods and may affect reproductive health.

Emotional and Psychological Impact

The benefits of masculinization hormone therapy go beyond physical changes. Lots of people experience a significant boost in self-esteem and mental health, as their physical appearance aligns with their gender identity.

Considerations and Risks

Medical Supervision: Hormone therapy should be undertaken under the guidance of a healthcare provider experienced in transgender health. GenderGP helps with this.

Potential Side Effects: Testosterone therapy can have side effects such as acne, changes in lipid profiles, and increased red blood cell count. The use of any medication carries its own risks and potential side effects, which should be monitored.

Fertility: Both estrogen blockers can impact fertility. You may want to explore fertility preservation options.

Emotional Wellbeing: Some people may experience mood changes, so we recommend establishing a support network and accessing mental health support.