What can we expect?

[Sarah...]

Hiya. My wife and I are going to see our GP soon. We have a 40 minute appointment at which we want to tell our GP that I am TG and to explore what might happen next with transitioning. We are looking to understand the protocols as they apply in our area for HRT and also understand what counselling may or may not be available for both of us. I wondered if any of you UK transmen and transwomen had any advice, from your own experience, as to how to handle the meeting because, frankly speaking, I'm nervous and wondering if I can hold it together through the appointment without becoming a blubbering wreck. I have accessed quite a lot of NHS material on the subject, both for patients and GPs and wonder if we need take any of this with us.

I'm worried that our GP may be unfamiliar with the subject, though she is very understanding and clearly listens to her patients.

Well, we're not in a rush as we think I won't be full time for maybe four or five years but we need control of the process now as we're both feeling that we know what we need but have no idea what help we can expect. Anyway, if you have some sage words of advice we'd be happy to hear them.

Thanks:)

Sarah...

xxx

[AllieSF]

I am in the States and can't really comment on the details of the UK and Scottish medical practices and procedures. However, I know that here we have a lot of social services available here that permit a person to consult on a topic prior to talking in detail with a qualified expert. Since your reason for meeting with the doctor is to discuss something that can be considered outside of the normal medical consulting issues, I would suggest you try two things prior to meeting with your doctor. The first is to pre-advise the doctor of your reason for meeting with him/her. You may not be able to talk directly with the doctor before hand, but his nurse receptionist can take your message, she is also bound to confidentiality, I would think, and then pass it to the doctor. That way some reserach, if needed, can be done so that your meeting can be more productive, or so the doctor can direct you to a more qualified doctor. The second thing to try would be to contact your local social services center and consult with them for ideas on which doctors may specialise in this area. You may be surprised to find some good sources. Normally, they do not recommend one over the other, but can provide other resources, lists, etc. that again can make your consultations and time with a medical professional more productive. Good luck and please do share how it goes.

[Pink Annie]

Read, read, read. Learn as much as you can, not just now, but thoughout your entire transition. A lot can change in the next 4 or 5 years and you have to be sure you can cope with anything. Sometimes we make changes for what we feel is the right reason today, tomorrow is altogther different. Make sure you have plenty of outside support from friends and family incase life isn't how you expect it to be in the future.

I support your desire for change and wish I could too. Good luck & stay intouch with us. :hugs: :hugs::hugs:

[Carole Cross]

I have just had a session with a counsellor who has dealt with others who want to transition. I suggested writing about my life and why I want to transition and she agreed that this would be a good idea. I think it will give you a referebce and allow therapists /counsellors to get a better understanding of what you have been through in your life.