Medical processes in transitioning/gender confirmation

 

 Health issues during the process

 

You might deal with a lot of health issues during transitioning. Transitioning is a very complex process in which the individual may take hormones to achieve masculine or feminine effects. The effects of the hormones are completed over several years, and many factors can influence the degree of change you experience. If you want to know more about the different changes testosterone and estrogen can cause, you can visit the homepage Revel and Riot under Transgender health and transitioning.

 

You might also have some health issues during and after transitioning. Among them are

 

•           Low or high blood pressure

 

•           Blood clots

 

•           Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance

 

•           Liver damage

 

Also individuals who have transitioned/are transitioning have a slightly higher risk to develop cancer. The breasts, uterus, ovaries, prostate, or liver can be affected. As a part of the physical examination these organs should be checked by your provider.

 

You may also have an increased risk for heart attack or stroke. If you are eperiancing anything like chest pain or trouble breathing that could be an indicator for heart issues caused by estrogen. Don't be afraid to report these feelings because alternative medication for transitioning can always be found.

 

Another possible issue is developing a depression during or after the process. If you are unable to talk to your family and friends, or you feel like their support is not adequate, there are always LGBTQ associations and providers in your surroundings which will be able to help you. There are also therapists you can talk to about your feelings and tell them if you are feeling mentally unwell or depressed. Be sure to check our links so that you can find your service in OWL.

 

So if you think about taking hormones you should be able to talk to your provider about your health history including former diseases, medication you have taken and the surgeries you might have had. This is important for your provider to know so they can offer you the best possible treatment or give you the best advice.