Transgender Support Group
This community is here to support and help the large population of transgender people. If you or anyone you know identify as transgender, this is the place to share your feelings and experiences and speak with others who are going through similar things in their lives.
just want to know once you start HRT how long does it take to see results and how long does the doctor make you wait to start. Most of all what are the emotional effects does Female HRT have on you? Thanks:-)
The reason is, once you start taking the hormones, you go through a (new) puberty. I'm FtM, and didn't begin until I was 45. I'm turning 50 this year(!!!!!) and I look like a guy in his 20's to 30's. Mentally(because the hormones do affect your brain functions), I'm somewhere between a guy of 16 and a guy of 20. Keep in mind, I'm going the opposite direction from you - I have had voice deepening, increased hair growth, some changes in my face, hips, and body structure. Testosterone is strong stuff, it takes effect a lot faster and harder than Estrogen does. My shoulders are beginning to bulk up, as my hips and butt are reducing. I have had a problem keeping my pants from falling off - and I'm wearing guy's pants now.
So, how long does the process take? About as long as the "original" biological puberty took. If you haven't gone through that yet, then I can't answer you.
A friend has been keeping a photo diary of my transition; I hate looking at the photos from before/early in my transition, as they do not look like who I am... who I have always been. I can see a lot of difference between now, and five years ago. Now, no one who had never known me before would imagine I was ever seen as female.
Yes, it takes time - so does growing up. But that's a good thing - because it gives YOU time to adjust to the changes too. A whole lot goes on, inside, in your body as well as in your mind, as these changes slowly transform your build, your mode of thinking, your emotions, and your outlook.
Before I began hormones, I was clinically depressed - had been, all my life. Once I began, within 2 months on Testosterone, I was off all the anti-depressants and no longer depressed at all. That was the first real BIG change for me. I finally was ABLE to feel "happy", and know it was REAL, not the result of a drug-induced temporary chemical change.
The time spent has been worth it - an investment in myself. Yes, I was impatient, yes, I wanted things to happen RIGHT THEN. But hormones aren't an overnight thing - though Testosterone very nearly feels that way. Even a miracle takes time. So, be patient, let the hormones do their work. It can vary, from person to person; it might not take you as long; or it might take longer.
Best wishes as you begin the rollercoaster of adjusting to the new hormones, once you do begin. There will be UPS and downs, as your body begins making the switch - emotional highs and lows, often without warning or reason. On Testosterone, I went through a period of sudden, unreasoning rages... just wham! Suddenly enraged, for no reason,... Then just as suddenly,.... disinterested in everything.... then horny,.... Then maybe, I'd be fine for a while - and the next fit of hormonal rage would hit. My guess is, if you're MtF, the estrogen will have you suddenly tearing up and crying for no reason, ... Don't let it get to you. Accept it as a normal part of the process, if you're expecting it to happen, when it does - hey, look! The hormones are WORKING!
I just want to comment, I'm a mtf undergoing hormone treatments of rstergen, I have been on them for seven months with out taking testosterone blockers. Within a three month period I have developed my chest, hips, and also noticing softer skin tones. Now I must say that everyone's body will react differently towards the meds. Myself being a male transitioning to a female I was told by the doctors that with my small frame body weighing only 135 lbs I would see a lot of progression compared to someone twice my weight and born mass. Also it depends on what regiment the doctors put you on. Talk to your doctors make a list of questions, concerns and also do a lot of research over the internet. Remember if you change your mind down the line there are some things that are not reversible . For females to males its the voice that will be permanent and sterilization of the female organs. Knowledge is power the more you know the better off you will be. Just to make sure it is what you want before starting and you will be told to speak to a councilor that handles transgender issues to help you with your options.
I wish you luck.
Danielle