Of course. Deciding whether to start hormone therapy (HRT) is a big and very personal step. Based on the shared experiences of others who have faced this question, here are some key themes that might help you think through your decision.

Uncertainty is Common and Manageable

It is completely normal to have doubts or specific worries about the changes HRT will bring. Many people report feeling ambivalent about effects like breast development or changes in genital function before they start. The good news is that these feelings often change into satisfaction. As one person shared, "i will mention that i was also ambivalent about breast growth when i started but ended up loving them. there are lots of people like me that i've heard from too" – talkloud [citation:6d525695-bf4c-4714-af5d-7a4b24186624]. Concerns about low libido or other effects can also often be managed by working with a doctor to adjust your regimen.

You Can Start with a "Trial Period"

A very important point for many is that the early stages of HRT can act as a trial run. The physical changes in the first few months are largely reversible, which can reduce the pressure of making a permanent decision all at once. One user explained, "The changes in the first 3ish months are fully reversible (and mostly reversible for 6 months) so you can always stop if you change your mind" – cyborg_sophie [citation:06811c4c-b492-4016-8e67-41239b5e2c3e]. This allows you to see how you feel emotionally and physically on hormones without a long-term commitment.

HRT Can Be Tailored to Your Goals

Your transition doesn't have to follow a single path. Hormone regimens can be customized with a healthcare provider to better align with your individual goals, especially if you identify outside the gender binary. "Also you can work with your doctor to tailor your HRT to better meet your specific goals. Lots of people do a 'nonbinary' transition, with lower doses or slightly different medication combinations" – cyborg_sophie [citation:06811c4c-b492-4016-8e67-41239b5e2c3e]. This means you can discuss options for emphasizing certain changes while minimizing others.

Consider the Health Context

It's wise to consider the health implications of HRT. The experiences shared indicate that with bio-identical hormones, the risks are generally similar to those of cisgender people of your identified gender. A key point is that having no dominant sex hormone (low testosterone and low estrogen) can pose health risks like bone density loss. Therefore, the goal of HRT is to achieve healthy hormone levels. As one user noted, "HRT just means you take on the risks typical of people of that sex" – aleatoryfemme [citation:e23af8c2-56a5-486c-873f-cf2be2afbb8d].

Exploring Access Options

If accessing understanding medical care is a barrier, some people explore informed, careful DIY (Do-It-Yourself) methods as a temporary bridge to formal care, with a strong emphasis on research and, if possible, blood testing to ensure safety. The primary advice is to avoid being in a state with no primary sex hormone, as this can negatively impact both physical and mental health.

In summary, the decision to start hormones is yours alone, but you are not alone in your concerns. Many people feel unsure at first and find that starting HRT, often with the safety net of reversible early changes, leads to greater happiness and alignment with their true self. The path is not one-size-fits-all; it can be adjusted to fit you. Whatever you decide, your identity is valid.