[Ebon]

Originally Posted by Thinker

Hey Ebon...

I started without a letter from a therapist. I had a letter in my possession, but the doctor never asked. That damn thing is still sitting...sealed......in a file folder.

I started with a guy in DC who had a lot of exposure to the MTF community there. I think he had gotten to the point where he was pretty comfortable making that decision for himself after a couple of visits with the patient.

I don't recall the specifics, but I am almost certain he went through a laundry list of labs before I started. I remember that I did not get my prescription until around my third or fourth visit; even then, I started on a very low dose of a transdermal patch. We both wanted to ease into it slowly since I have a history of migraines that were often triggered by hormonal changes. I started injections after about 3 months, I think.

I did not have a history of high blood pressure, but I did see changes once I started on T; it was high almost always. After about a year or so, that was no longer an issue.

A doctor can certainly say no. Finding a doc who, like mine, is very familiar with the trans community and our issues/obstacles with health care is pretty important.

Thanks for the info.