The requirements for starting hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can vary depending on your specific situation, but there are some general guidelines that apply. The most important requirements are having a diagnosis of gender dysphoria and getting a letter of recommendation from a qualified mental health professional.
To begin the process, you'll first need to have an evaluation with a mental health provider who is experienced in treating gender dysphoria. This is necessary to receive an official diagnosis. The provider will assess your history, gender identity, mental health status, and readiness for medical transition. If you meet the clinical criteria for gender dysphoria, the mental health professional can then write a letter recommending you for HRT.
This letter is a crucial requirement, as most doctors will want to see it before prescribing hormones. The letter should confirm your gender dysphoria diagnosis, any relevant mental health conditions, and that you are capable of making an informed decision about medical treatments. Some providers may require you to undergo a minimum duration of mental health therapy before writing the letter, such as 3-6 months.
In addition to the letter, you will also need to sign an informed consent form at the clinic or doctor's office where you receive HRT. This form states that you understand the risks, benefits, and effects of hormone therapy. Signing it indicates your consent to begin treatment. Your doctor will go over the details of the form with you and likely have you meet with them for multiple visits before starting hormones.
Your medical provider will also take baseline lab tests prior to prescribing HRT. These tests check liver function, potassium levels, cholesterol panels, and hormone levels. The results provide a starting point to monitor the effects of hormones on your body. Your provider will continue to order lab work periodically during treatment to make sure levels are in the correct range.
Being at least 18 years old is preferable when starting HRT, although some clinics may treat younger patients with parental consent. There is no upper age limit for HRT eligibility. Patients of any age who meet the diagnostic criteria can begin hormones.
If you are interested in hormone therapy, make an appointment with Hormone Harmony. Our caring doctors and nurses can guide you through the process of getting certified for and starting HRT. We provide informed consent HRT to eligible patients and work closely with mental health professionals.
At Hormone Harmony, we administer all types of feminizing and masculinizing hormone therapies for transgender and nonbinary people. Our customized treatments include estradiol, spironolactone, testosterone, and more. We offer training on proper injection techniques and provide at-home blood test kits for monitoring. Our staff is sensitive, welcoming, and happy to answer any questions you have along your transition journey.
In summary, the key requirements for starting HRT are:
- A diagnosis of gender dysphoria from a mental health professional
- A letter recommending you for hormone therapy
- Signing an informed consent form
- Completing baseline lab tests
- Being 18 years old or having parental consent if younger
By working with knowledgeable providers at clinics like Hormone Harmony, transgender and nonbinary individuals can safely and effectively start feminizing or masculinizing HRT. Our team provides compassionate care based on current medical standards. We're here to support you each step of the way.
