Adult gender-affirming hormones are used to alter someone’s physical appearance to more closely align their physical body with their inner sense of self. Hormones may be used alone or along with adult gender affirmation surgery.
Choosing whether to start, alter, or stop hormones is an important decision. If you are considering hormones, it is crucial to understand how they may impact your body.
- Make sure to discuss physical, emotional, and fertility changes with your provider
- Understand which changes may be reversible, and which are not reversible
- Set realistic expectations for hormones. Some changes may take months or years, and the effects are unique to each individual
- Plan to keep regular follow-up appointments to monitor your health and the changes you experience with hormones
- Hormones come in the form of a pill, injection, patch, or cream. Discuss with your provider which option best fits your goals and health history
Testosterone Blockers and Estrogen
Individuals may be interested in taking testosterone blockers and/or estrogen with the goal of increasing “feminine” secondary sex characteristics such as breast growth, the redistribution of body fat to hips and thighs, the reduction of muscle mass, and potential thinning or slowing of facial and body hair growth. Please note that hormones affect each person differently—it is not possible to choose which changes you may experience.
Testosterone
Individuals may be interested in taking testosterone with the goal of increasing “masculine” secondary sex characteristics such as the development of a deeper voice, the redistribution of body fat away from hips and thighs, increased body and facial hair, increased muscle mass, and changes to monthly bleeding/menstrual cycle. Please note that hormones affect each person differently—it is not possible to choose which changes you may experience.
Expert Care
Hormones and primary care at Temple are provided by experienced clinicians who are medical and academic leaders in their fields. Temple Health also offers access to support services, such as voice therapy, so that every individual can feel confident in their bodies as their authentic selves.
Learn more about our LGBTQ+-centered care >
Ready for an Appointment?
Find a doctor near you, request an appointment, or call 800-TEMPLE-MED (800-836-7536) today.