We asked trans and gender-nonconforming members of the BuzzFeed Community what they wish they had known before beginning hormone replacement therapy, which can be a wild and confusing ride.
Let's talk about testosterone therapy (we'll cover feminizing hormones over here). Testosterone, often referred to as simply "T", increases muscle mass, facial hair, and deepens your voice.
1.Not everyone who goes on T has the same goal for how "masculine" they want to look.
2.Testosterone can also affect your mood and temperament.
3.There is no universal transition timeline. Your body may not change as quickly as someone else's, so try not to get discouraged by constant comparison.
4.Voice changes can be a painful up and down — literally.
5.Getting that right dosage can be a bit of trial and error, so listen to your body and be patient.
6.It's OK to be a little (or a lot) intimidated by self-injections.
7.On T your sex drive will, well, thrive.
8.And you'll probably want to eat all the foods.
9.FYI: Growing facial hair is itchy AF.
10.Your dysphoria may change as you change.
11.Don't be afraid to ask questions! Ask your doctor if you notice anything unusual, they'll know what's cause for concern and what's not.
12.Hormone replacement therapy isn't a "cure all or fix all" treatment.
13.Sometimes talking it out with a therapist is the best medicine.
14.And, always and most importantly, try to love yourself just as you are.
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