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Male to Female hormonal treatment

The male to female (MTF) person will usually seek hormonal treatment as the first step towards their new body.

In order to get oestrogen, the feminising hormonal therapy, it is necessary to have a prescription. It is possible to get these hormones illegally, but it is not advised, and can cause severe damage. An endocrinologist writes the prescription, and monitors how your organs are coping with the oestrogen once treatment has begun.

It is vital to note that unlike the hormonal therapy with regards to FTMs, the changes that occur with hormonal therapy for MTFs do not have very noticeable and body changing effects. However, all hope is not lost. There are many procedures, from breast enhancements to electrolysis that can aid you in looking as female on the outside, as you are on the inside.

Before we completely give up on oestrogen, lets evaluate what it will do for you. It will cause breast tissue to grow, in accordance to your body and the general sizes of your family. It causes fat to move from the waist and towards the hips and buttocks. Your skin will become softer, and the body hair will soften.

What it won't do
You need to have a clear understanding about what oestrogen will not do. It will not make your penis disappear, but your scrotum and prostate will shrink. It will not change your voice. Voice lessons can be taken in order to retrain your speech patterns. If you are balding, it will slow this down, and perhaps stop it altogether. Your Adams apple will remain its size, and your facial bones will stay the same size as well.

The side effects and health risks associated with taking oestrogen are a reality. These include: problems with liver functioning; an increased risk for blood clots, with the risk factor being increased if you are a smoker, or are over 35. Blood clots are very serious, and can result in a stroke. This is why it is so necessary to consult with an endocrinologist for the duration of your hormonal treatment.

Oestrogen promotes the risk of breast cancer, and it is important to have your breasts checked regularly. Your sex drive will decrease and erections will be difficult to get and maintain. The amount and quality of ejaculate will decrease. Oestrogen does not eliminate the risks of causing pregnancy in a female sex partner. (Health24)

Our gay, lesbian and bisexual expert gives advice.

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