Hormone therapy can help transgender individuals align their physical characteristics with their gender identity. For many people, it may also reduce gender dysmorphia, improve emotional well-being, and increase comfort with and confidence in their body.
If you’re considering gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT), you may have questions about the process, benefits, risks, and expected results. Understanding what to expect can help you make informed decisions about your care and prepare you for the journey ahead.
Premier Obstetrics and Gynecology in Winter Park, Oviedo, and Lake Mary, Florida, provides inclusive, affirming, and compassionate care for LGBTQIA+ patients. Our team includes a transgender medicine specialist, Dr. Matthew Wollenschlaeger, who provides personalized care and offers GAHT.
GAHT is a medical treatment that uses hormones — and in some cases, medicine that suppresses certain hormones — to help create physical characteristics that better align with a person’s gender identity. Hormone therapy can help transgender and gender-diverse individuals feel more comfortable in their body and support their overall quality of life.
There are two primary types of transgender hormone therapy:
Feminizing hormone therapy uses estrogen along with medications that reduce the effects of testosterone. Treatment may promote physical changes such as breast development, softer skin, and reduced muscle mass.
Masculinizing hormone therapy involves taking testosterone, usually by injection or other approved methods. Testosterone therapy promotes masculine characteristics such as a deeper voice, increased muscle mass, and growth of facial and body hair.
There’s no single checklist that determines who might benefit from GAHT. However, medical professionals often follow established clinical guidelines like those developed by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health when evaluating patients.
You might benefit from hormone therapy if you:
Because every person’s situation is unique, Dr. Wollenschlaeger individualizes treatment recommendations based on a comprehensive medical evaluation.
Your evaluation is the first step in the transgender hormone therapy process. During your consultation, we review your medical history, goals, and run lab work.
We also discuss benefits and risks of treatment, possible effects on fertility, and the importance of ongoing monitoring and follow-up care.
GAHT causes physical and emotional changes, but the results occur gradually. While some changes begin within the first few months, others may take several years to develop.
Many of the initial changes from estrogen therapy begin within the first few months. Early effects may include:
Changes in facial and body hair typically occur more gradually and may take longer to become noticeable. Some individuals also report experiencing a broader emotional range and changes in mood and emotional expression.
Physical changes with testosterone therapy start within 2-3 months. This includes:
Many people also report increased libido and greater confidence as their physical appearance becomes more aligned with their gender identity.
While transgender hormone therapy can significantly improve quality of life and reduce gender dysphoria, all medical treatments carry some risks.
Depending on the type of hormone therapy and your individual health history, treatment may increase the risk of certain conditions, including
Because GAHT can affect fertility, it’s important to discuss future family-building goals before starting treatment. Options such as sperm, egg, or embryo preservation are available.
Starting transgender hormone therapy is a personal decision that deserves thoughtful consideration and professional guidance. Understanding the benefits, risks, and expected changes can help you feel more confident about your treatment choices.
At Premier Obstetrics and Gynecology, we’re committed to providing compassionate care in a welcoming and supportive environment. Our team can answer questions, discuss your goals, and help you determine if transgender hormone therapy is right for you.
Call Premier Obstetrics and Gynecology today or book online to schedule your initial consultation.
