What are the signs that gender-affirming HRT is not working?
This page is about gender-affirming hormone therapy (testosterone or oestrogen) for trans and non-binary people, not menopause HRT. Possible signs include little or no physical change after several months, low mood or anxiety that does not lift, and unexplained side effects. Only blood tests and your prescriber can confirm what is happening.
How long does gender-affirming hormone therapy take to work?
It varies from person to person. Some people notice the first changes within a few months, while others take longer, and many changes keep developing gradually over time. Your dose, your body and how regularly you take your hormones all play a part, so compare your progress with your prescriber rather than with others.
What should I do if I think my hormones are not working?
Book a review with the clinician who prescribes your hormones and ask for up-to-date blood tests. Do not change your dose yourself. If you are taking hormones that were not prescribed by a health professional, the NHS advises speaking to a GP. Neda Agency coordinates surgery and does not prescribe hormones.
Sources
- NHS – Gender dysphoria and incongruence: diagnosis and treatment, including hormone therapy
- WPATH – Standards of Care for the Health of Transgender and Gender Diverse People, Version 8 (SOC8)
- Endocrine Society – Clinical practice guideline on endocrine treatment of gender-dysphoric/gender-incongruent persons