How easy/affordable is it to get hormones?

[bev_andersen]

So here's what may be a stupid question. I've been reading, thinking, day dreaming, etc about transitioning for years and now I'm actually wanting to take steps towards transitioning. How do i actually get started on hormones? Just call up an endocrinologist and make an appointment?

I've heard not everyone follows the SoC, so apparently I don't

Comments

[raid_iink]

You don't necessarily need to see an endo. If your primary care physician (usually a general practitioner) is comfortable and experienced enough they can prescribe you hormones and monitor your care.

Not everyone follows the SoC, however many doctors do. Whether or not you have to see a therapist depends entirely on your prescribing physician and you. Sometimes seeing a therapist is helpful for people, sometimes it isn't. There are some resources on informed consent here and you can probably look up clinics or practices that work under this model online. You can probably also give this information to your prescribing physician.

[raid_iink]

USA

[bev_andersen]

I'm currently living in the US, in Wisconsin.

[didactic_cudgel]

Well, if you're in Sheboygan, you're about two and half hours away from the Howard Brown Health Center in Chicago, which has their own on-site counselors and practices the informed consent model (through their THInC model - Transgender Health, Informed Consent). They accept almost all forms of insurance and the staff is friendly, considerate and knowledgeable. I've been going there for three and a half years. I could not recommend it higher.

Also, you should be aware that the WPATH Standards of Care recently underwent a sea change in its approach with version 7. It now recommends informed consent and recognizes non-binary gender identities. If you are unable to visit HoBro or another similar local clinic, you could make sure your physician is aware of SOC 7 and ask if they'd be willing to follow its recommended approach.

[bev_andersen]

Oh good to know the SoC underwent a change. I know it used to be the case that it seemed to be hindrance to follow the SoC. Perhaps not anymore?

HNHC

[wendygrrl]

Thank you for posting info about Howard Brown Clinic... I wanting to do their THInC hormone program.
Wendy