[Nancy78]

Hello girls, just wanted To share with you that I am really happy today. I ordered my Estrogen And anti-androgens today And will Be delivered soon. I just wondered what your experiences are with starting up the procedure.please let me know.

[CalmlyAndrogynous]

For me, starting up was the best time. I was amazed at the new sensations and feelings. Until you get you T down and E up, you really have no idea how breasts and nipples are supposed to feel. The sensitivity eases after a few months, or it did for me at least and I kind of miss it now.

After a few months, watch out for the blues. I went to some dark places at about the 5 to 6 month mark. I think this is heightened if you are generally an introvert which I am.

For me, the mental changes were the best. I am calmer in general, more assertive and more social than I was.

So, try to avoid the blues and enjoy the journey. At 8 months in, even though I still present as male, the person inside is much happier and I think, a better person.

[Naomiko]

Congrats on your starting steps!

I was on herbals for 4 months or so before starting my prescription. I felt pretty positive on herbals, but even more so on HRT. Like Calmly, I was calmer and more social. There were some emotional episodes, generally every few weeks.

I was on the estrogel regimen (transgendercare link below). I noticed my facial features feminized quicker than expected, lost noticeable muscle mass (half inch in 3 months on vs 1" in over a year off), and my breast development pace picked up after switching.

It's important to have a doctor on board to at least run regular tests to monitor your levels and liver. Support/someone to talk to is helpful as well -- especially during those emotional rollercoasters.

Here's a couple links with info on hormones, regimens/dosing, sides, etc. It's good to know whats going in, going on, and what to expect.

Good luck and wishing you the best!

TransgenderCare Hormone/Regimen Information

Baseline Lab Tests (UCSF)

[ladyboy_in_da_cocoon]

I'm starting too .. need advice too

[ladyboy_in_da_cocoon]

Congrats on your starting steps!

I was on herbals for 4 months or so before starting my prescription. I felt pretty positive on herbals, but even more so on HRT. Like Calmly, I was calmer and more social. There were some emotional episodes, generally every few weeks.

I was on the estrogel regimen (transgendercare link below). I noticed my facial features feminized quicker than expected, lost noticeable muscle mass (half inch in 3 months on vs 1" in over a year off), and my breast development pace picked up after switching.

It's important to have a doctor on board to at least run regular tests to monitor your levels and liver. Support/someone to talk to is helpful as well -- especially during those emotional rollercoasters.

Here's a couple links with info on hormones, regimens/dosing, sides, etc. It's good to know whats going in, going on, and what to expect.

Good luck and wishing you the best!

TransgenderCare Hormone/Regimen Information

Baseline Lab Tests (UCSF)

wow this site is super cool and it has proper medical advise..

Why did i never come across it in all my searching remains a mystery

[jannet.duff]

Welcome to the forum. Its going to be a roller coaster ride for the next few months.

It should be noted, as far as I know, no one that posts here has any medical training. We are not doctors or therapists. Most information is from first hand experience, ( a lot of trial and error ) It cannot be stressed enough to read as many threads as you can, make notes and ask questions. Seeing a doctor for regular bloodwork can not be stressed enough.

[julieTG]

Great to see you back

Lady cocoon

where have you been ?

I miss your stunning photos ? hint, hint

Love Julie

x

[Naomiko]

VCH TransHealth - Feminizing Hormones (Types, Effects, Risks)

I just wanted to add this link as well, not sure why I didn't post it originally. For advice, I can only reiterate about getting regular tests/panels done to keep an eye on your levels -- you can request these tests whether you have a prescription or not, but likely the doctor or walk-in doctor will ask why.

A gender therapist is great, not just to help with any possible letter/referral requirements in your area but also for depression, emotional rollercoasters, as well as with coming out and social transition. Local support groups/clubs and/or LGBT centers are positive options as well.

It's always a good idea to research as much as possible about hormones, side effects, risks, etc etc. The More You Know! (Queue rainbow)

I think it's important to keep in mind that the physical changes and our journeys vary from each person to the next. Some things may come quickly for some, while others it may take a bit longer. Welcome to Puberty 2.0, results and mileage vary but it's still not a race -- so don't rush, enjoy the scenery along the way.

Other than that...smile often, take care, be happily free, and stay healthy.