Finding an Endocrinologist

[samcs]

I have started DIY HRT and really want to go to an Endocrinoligist to do it right. How does one go about finding an Endocrinologist that works with TS MtF women? I live in NJ and have called several without sucess.

[GypsyKaren]

Hi Samantha

Unless you're seeing a therapist who might know of someone who will do it, about the only thing you can do is keep calling and asking. One thing to bear in mind is if you do find one who will work with you, he or she will probably require a therapist's recommendation.

Karen Starlene :star:

[sunbunny]

I just did a Google search and found this site:
http://www.callen-lorde.org/

Hope that helps even though it's not in your state. They seem to be specialists.

Wish you well. Finding the right doctor for anything is important.

:canada:

[CaptLex]

I just did a Google search and found this site:
http://www.callen-lorde.org/
Callen-Lorde is the local LGBT clinic here in NYC (it's where I go). They provide medical and dental services, counseling and HRT (if they accept your insurance). They also provide referrals to trans-friendly specialists, including endocrinologists, but I don't know if they have a list for New Jersey. Couldn't hurt to call and ask. :)

[melissaK]

If you can't find an endocrinologist, go see a family Dr. or general practitioner. They deal with internal medicine day in and day out and most know their endorcrine system quite well. Remember, women who hit menopause see GP's every day and ask about HRT. Tell your Dr. what you're up to. Its all confidential. If you aren't doing the patch, ask for liver function among regular blood tests. Its usually insurance billable under the guise of an annual physical or something similar. If it's not, pay anyway. He/she may ask questions about your health history and family health history on topics like thrombosis (blood clots), kidney problems, alcohol use, liver infections like hepatitis, high blood pressure, diabetes. All are areas that raise concerns about side effects and risk of complications. He/she may refer you to an endocrinologist if you're in a risk category. But PLEASE, get some risk assessment done.

hugs,
'lissa

[Sharon]

I called several endos before finding one who dealt with gender issues, but I eventually found one who is located not that far from me and who turned out to be well known and respected by the local TG community.

Keep at it, Samantha, they're out there. :)