🏳️‍⚧️ Negative HRT Effects You Need to Know | Transfem

Summary

In this informative yet casual video, a non-licensed individual discusses hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for transgender people. They cover both the benefits and potential risks, including the increased chances of blood clots and breast cancer, as well as the shrinkage of certain body parts like the prostate. The video also touches on the psychological and physical effects, such as changes in libido and fertility. The speaker emphasizes the importance of cancer screenings and maintaining certain functions, offering valuable insights for those considering or currently undergoing HRT. Throughout, the tone is light-hearted, engaging, and informative.

Takeaways

• 😀 HRT is a primary way for trans people to medically transition, but it comes with both benefits and risks.
• 😀 HRT increases the risk of blood clots and breast cancer, but this risk is similar to that of cisgender women, not men.
• 😀 The breast cancer risk with HRT is primarily due to breast growth, but it’s hard to develop breast cancer without breasts.
• 😀 HRT causes the prostate to shrink, reducing the risk of prostate cancer.
• 😀 HRT can reduce libido, and some people may feel asexual during the transition, but libido often returns with time.
• 😀 Transitioning with HRT may change your sexual attraction, and some people might discover new preferences, though sexual orientation is not determined by transition.
• 😀 Testicular atrophy, or shrinkage, occurs 3 to 6 months after starting HRT, which can be surprising but is a normal process.
• 😀 HRT can limit fertility, and it’s recommended to freeze sperm if you plan to have children in the future.
• 😀 Long-term HRT use may lead to permanent infertility, even if you stop HRT temporarily.
• 😀 Genital shrinkage is common on HRT, and maintaining sexual function can help minimize it by engaging in sexual activity regularly.
• 😀 Regular cancer screenings are important for people on HRT, including breast cancer screenings (according to recommendations for cis women) and prostate cancer screenings.

Q & A

What is HRT and how is it used by trans people?

HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) is a medical treatment used by trans people to transition to their desired gender. It involves the use of hormones like estrogen or testosterone to align one's physical traits with their gender identity.

What are some of the risks associated with HRT?

HRT can increase the risk of blood clots and breast cancer. However, the increased risk is similar to that of cisgender women, who also have higher chances of developing these conditions compared to men.

Why does HRT increase the risk of breast cancer?

HRT increases the risk of breast cancer because it causes the breasts to grow. Since it is difficult to develop breast cancer without breast tissue, this risk is tied to the growth of breast tissue during HRT.

What effect does HRT have on prostate cancer risk?

HRT typically reduces the risk of prostate cancer as it causes the prostate to shrink, lowering the chances of developing prostate cancer.

How does HRT impact libido?

HRT often weakens libido, which may cause a person to lose interest in sexual activity. This effect varies between individuals, and some people report a higher libido after starting HRT. It may take some time for libido to return to normal after starting HRT.

What is testicular atrophy and how does it relate to HRT?

Testicular atrophy refers to the shrinking of the testicles, which usually begins 3 to 6 months after starting HRT. While this is not a medical problem, it's important for individuals to be aware of it as it can be surprising.

How does HRT affect fertility?

HRT can reduce fertility by limiting the ability to produce sperm. Doctors recommend freezing sperm before starting HRT if a person wishes to have biological children in the future. The longer one is on HRT, the higher the likelihood of becoming infertile.

Does HRT lead to changes in sexual attraction?

HRT can influence sexual attraction, as individuals may experience changes in what they find appealing in a partner. This shift may be due to the hormonal changes affecting attraction. It's also possible for someone to realize they are attracted to different genders after transitioning, but this varies by individual.

What are the effects of HRT on the genitalia, such as shrinkage and erectile dysfunction?

HRT can lead to genital shrinkage, which occurs when the genitals do not experience regular arousal. Additionally, erectile dysfunction may occur due to lower testosterone levels, which make it harder to achieve or maintain an erection. Regular sexual activity is recommended to help maintain erectile function.

What cancer screenings should individuals on HRT undergo?

Individuals on HRT should continue to follow cancer screening guidelines for both breast cancer and prostate cancer, according to the recommendations for cisgender women and men, respectively. These screenings are important for early detection of potential cancer risks.