Medical transition for transgender individuals

Abstract

Transition refers to the process of affirming a gender identity that is different from the birth-assigned gender role. For some individuals this may be a social transition, involving changes in gender roles and expression without the need to medically feminize or masculinize their bodies. For others however transition includes the use of cross-gender hormone therapy and/or surgical procedures that fall under the umbrella of gender confirming surgeries. The purpose of this chapter is to discuss the development of medical protocols that guide provision of hormones for medical transition, with particular attention to the philosophy of the informed consent model of care. The chapter summarizes the usual doses of hormones and other agents used for masculinizing and feminizing regimens as well as discussing the beneficial and potential adverse effects of treatment. The chapter reviews the short and long-term management of clients on hormones and addresses primary care concerns specific to transgender clients. Key references and resources are provided to assist clinicians who wish to optimize their knowledge and skills caring for transgender clients.