What do I need

[marie354]

This month my doctor & I will be talking about my TS situation.
They told me last month that they want to refer me to a gynecologist. They say that it's a good place to start for HRT.
I'm a bit nervous about it, as I've never been down this path before.
My question is, I guess, is what should I expect... Birth control?

[GypsyKaren]

That's a new one on me, I sure don't know what a gynecologist is going to do for you, you need an endocrinologist.

GK :star:

[Steph Butterfield]

I concur with Karen, a gynecologist is not who need to see, but an endocrinologist, a specialist in hormone treatments.


Best of luck



Stephanie

[John]

Tell your doctor you need an endo[crologist], preferably one with experience treating transpatients.

And I doubt you'll get 'the pill', I don't think they have high enough doses to be substituted for hrt.

[melissaK]

Seriously, are you sure they said "gynecologist"? I have never read about such a referral and I'm searching for a logical explanation.

Did they just misspeak, I mean anyone can think one name and accidentally say a different name;

Did you just mishear, same deal, anyone can misassociate a name or title.

Are you in a remote town with no endocrinologist specialist?
I know gynecologists know more about the endocrine system than most male GPs just because their patient base is so intimately involved with hormones, especially at menopause, but . . .

hugs,
'lissa

[rebekahm]

Hi Marie,

I believe the first thing you would need is a letter of reference from an qualified mental health professional before any reputable endocrinologist would prescribe HRT.

Below are some links for therapists and also some endos:

http://www.drbecky.com/therapists.html

http://www.lauras-playground.com/gender_therapists.htm

http://www.t-vox.org/index.php?title=Endocrinologists

The other advantage of seeing a qualified therapist who has experience with TS/TG is they most likely have referred others to a reputable endo and would be able to assist you in finding one.

I hope this helps a little.

[marie354]

Thanks to everyone. I will talk to my Dr. about it at my next appt. I thought that it sounded a bit odd.

[helenr]

Hi Sandra, I know I may be scolded for mentioning the idea of conservative self-medication, but honestly, so many MDs seem ignorant, uncaring, or worse. Lots of money wasted on these visits. It's sensible to find a truly qualified MD familiar with the transgendered individual, but it may not be easy. You have a right to ask lots of questions and this shouldn't cost you $100. or more to find out if that is the right physician. Even if a long distance trip is required initially, it would make sense. Much could be monitored locally, I would believe, and your specialist could advise the local MD about your regimen. I am doing my own thing, and all seems OK, but that probably isn't the smartest course of action. good luck, Helenr