What is hormone replacement therapy?
Hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, is one form of therapy where the individual or patient takes hormones, as a replacement of naturally occurring hormones, or in place of deficiency thereof. HRT is widely applied at the time of menopause, as androgen replacement therapy, and also in transsexual individuals.
Why is hormone replacement therapy employed?
In treatment of transgender individuals, HRT is implemented in an attempt to introduce the hormone related to the gender to which the subject identifies. It assists their secondary sex features (e.g pubic hair, Adam’s apple, facial hair, large breasts in females) to be compliant with the identified gender. In transgender males, testosterone is utilised to stop feminising traits, whereas in transgender females, oestrogen is utilised to prevent masculinising features.
What does hormone replacement therapy involve?
Hormone replacement therapy is in the form of drugs, which have to be prescribed by a competent physician. Hormone therapy is deemed safe but needs to be monitored by a physician. Seeking advice from a physician before initiating therapy sets both eligibility and preparedness. Each patient is unique, and your physician will be willing to answer to you and your unique circumstances
How do you prepare for hormone replacement therapy?
Prior to going through HRT, a person should make an initial appointment with a doctor. They will be able to guide and refer the person in the proper way. Hormone replacement therapy is often the initial type of treatment that transgender individuals go through in their process, and some discover that they do not require any additional treatment since the hormonal adjustments are sufficient.
How is hormone replacement therapy administered?
HRT is usually taken as a medication, and is most commonly given orally. It can, however, be given in the form of an injection, patch, or gel.
Changes will often occur more slowly than anticipated, which may be disappointing for the person undergoing treatment. If HRT is successful, it will be taken throughout one’s life.
Does hormone replacement therapy pose any risks?
All medication has the potential for side effects, but not everyone will respond in the same manner. Most people have no side effects at all, particularly if their overall health is good. Your doctor will assist in monitoring your health and keeping track of your progress, by having regular blood tests, and potentially bone scans.