Overview
Thinking of taking testosterone blockers?
Then you would be interested to learn everything about it, right?
After all, proper knowledge and information is the first and the most crucial step to a successful treatment journey!
So, let’s not waste time and take the first step towards a successful treatment journey by learning all about testosterone blockers!
Testosterone blockers MTF can be taken as a pill or injection. Testosterone blockers do not directly block the secretion of testosterone, instead they promote estrogen secretion. Estrogen is a hormone that induces feminine characters.
T blockers mtf help in reducing masculine characters like:
- Pattern baldness like men
- Excessive facial hair growth
- Morning erections
Testosterone blockers mtf work better if they are taken along with estrogen.
Are you curious to learn how testosterone blockers actually work?
Scroll down to put an end to your curiosity!
How does Testosterone Blockers MTF work?
Testosterone blockers are not necessarily the ones who block testosterone secretion, it is actually who is responsible for it. Testosterone blockers are named so because they prevent various effects of testosterone. What testosterone blockers do is that they first increase the levels of testosterone in the body, and hence there would be a large amount of Testosterone floating in the blood. So, when testosterone increases in the blood, this will induce the estrogen to cause a drop in testosterone levels.
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Now, let’s discuss,
Uses of Testosterone blockers MTF
Testosterone blockers can be used in many ways. Starting from treating prostate cancer to reducing facial hair growth, it has many uses.
Below mentioned are the ways Testosterone blockers can be used:
- It is used to reduce the symptoms of PCOS in women. Women who produce more than normal levels of testosterone have PCOS. which leads to irregular menstrual cycles, unusual hair growth and acne.
- High androgen or testosterone levels can cause various diseases and complications like diabetes, ovarian tumors or adrenal gland tumors. Testosterone blockers help in controlling these by reducing the level of testosterone in the body.
- In transgender females, t blockers mtf can help in reducing masculinizing features. Mtf testosterone blockers can decrease male features like pattern baldness, facial hair growth and erections in the morning.
- In men, high levels of testosterone promotes the growth of cancerous cells in the prostate. Testosterone blockers reduce the risk of cancers by suppressing the growth of cancer cells.
Types of Testosterone blockers Mtf
Mainly two types of mtf testosterone blockers are there. See the table below to find out!
| Type of mtf T blockers | Description |
| Spironolactone | Spironolactone, also called Aldactone is a testosterone blocker mtf. It is used for treatment of hormonal acne and excessive growth of hair in the face and body. People seeking mtf transition can use this to reduce masculine traits. Doctors might also prescribe it to treat female pattern baldness. |
| Cyproterone | This was the first kind of testosterone blocker mtf. Doctors use it on transgender females to reduce the masculine traits. This is also used to treat women who have PCOS. This natural testosterone blocker mtf causes also reduces oil production in the face and reduces acne. |
Did you know there are different methods of testosterone blockers?
Let’s learn about each of them!
Methods of Testosterone blockers MTF
| Method |
Description
|
| Spironolactone | This medication is a potassium-sparing diuretic. It has anti-androgen properties. It works by blocking the action of androgens at the receptor level. This reduces the amount of testosterone in the body. Spironolactone is commonly used in combination with estrogen therapy for MTF hormone therapy. |
| Cyproterone acetate | This medication is a progestin that also has anti-androgen properties. It works by blocking the production of testosterone in the testes.Thus, reducing its effect in the body. Cyproterone acetate is used as a testosterone blocker in several countries. But is not available in the USA due to concerns over liver toxicity. |
| GnRH analogs | Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogs work by inhibiting the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the pituitary gland. This in turn reduces the production of testosterone in the testes. These medications are usually reserved for MTF individuals who cannot tolerate spironolactone or cyproterone acetate. |
| Orchiectomy | This surgical procedure involves the removal of the testes. Testes are the main source of testosterone production in the body. Orchiectomy is a permanent method of testosterone suppression and is typically reserved for MTF individuals. Individuals who have completed their gender transition, and no longer wish to retain their reproductive capacity. |
What are the benefits and risks of Testosterone blockers MTF?
The below table discusses the risks and benefits of testosterone blockers, read carefully and decide accordingly!
| Benefits | Risks |
| Promote feminization - Testosterone blockers mtf can help promote feminization in transwomen individuals by reducing the levels of testosterone. It is the primary male sex hormone in the body. This can lead to the development of feminine characteristics such as breast growth, reduced body hair growth, and redistribution of body fat. | Side effects- Testosterone blockers can cause side effects, such as fatigue, dizziness, and headaches. In some cases, they may also cause sexual dysfunction, such as reduced libido and erectile dysfunction. |
| Improved mental health: Many MTF individuals report improved mental health and well-being after starting hormone replacement therapy. This includes mtf testosterone blockers. This may be due to the relief of gender dysphoria and the ability to align their physical appearance with their gender identity. | Increased risk of osteoporosis: Reduced levels of testosterone in the body can lead to a decrease in bone density. This increases risk of osteoporosis, especially in older MTF individuals. Liver toxicity: Some testosterone blockers, such as cyproterone acetate, can cause liver toxicity. It can be life-threatening in rare cases. |
| Reduce risk of male-pattern baldness: Testosterone blockers mtf can help reduce the risk of male-pattern baldness.It is a common side effect of testosterone in transwomen. | Interference with fertility-Testosterone blockers can interfere with fertility by reducing the production of sperm in the testes. This may be a concern for MTF individuals who wish to preserve their reproductive capacity. |
Read below to learn if you are among the eligible candidates for testosterone blocker therapy!
Eligibility criteria for Testosterone blockers mtf
The eligibility criteria of Testosterone blockers MTF depends upon various factors.
The eligibility criteria for mtf testosterone blockers is listed below:
- Age- One should be more than 18 years to start with mtf testosterone blockers.
- Diagnosis of gender dysphoria- MTF individuals should have a diagnosis report of gender dysphoria from a qualified psychologist.
- Good overall health: MTF individuals must be in good overall health. There should be no underlying medical conditions that would make hormone therapy unsafe.They should not have any medical condition that poses a risk for their health while taking mtf testosterone blockers.
- Informed consent: MTF individuals must provide informed consent for hormone therapy. It involves understanding the potential benefits and risks of treatment, as well as the alternatives.
So, are you eligible for testosterone blockers?
Great!
What happened? Wondering where to begin from and how to get ready for the procedure?
Here are the details!
How to prepare for testosterone blockers MTF?
Before starting testosterone blockers for MTF individuals, there are several steps that can be taken to prepare:
- Find a qualified healthcare provider. An experienced doctor can help you assess the eligibility and the t blocker option you should go with.
- Research the potential risks and benefits of mtf testosterone blockers. This will help you prepare mentally for the therapy.
- Make necessary lifestyle changes required for seamless therapy. Like healthy eating, adequate sleep and regular physical exercise.
Have you taken all the above steps and are all set to begin the procedure?
Let's begin!
Procedure of starting with Testosterone blocker MTF
| Steps | Description |
Initial Evaluation | This evaluation is done to assess your eligibility for the therapy. You have to undergo mental health evaluation, physical exam and blood tests. Vaccination reviews, managing tobacco use, alcohol or drug use, HIV test etc. Discuss about fertility and freezing of sperm. |
Hormone therapy regimen | The doctor will suggest a HRT regimen including testosterone blockers and estrogen. The doctor will also decide the dose and method of administration. |
Regular monitoring | Blood tests and follow up appointments are scheduled. This is done to monitor hormone levels and possible side effects. |
Physical changes | Over time you will see the physical changes. Feminine characteristics will start appearing like breast growth, reduced hair growth and body fat redistribution. |
Support and counseling | MTF transition can be emotionally challenging. Counseling will help in coping with the emotional changes. |
Wondering for how long the treatment will last?
The duration of testosterone blocker (anti-androgen) treatment for MTF individuals can vary depending on several factors, including individual health status, age, and treatment goals.
In most cases, testosterone blockers are taken indefinitely as part of ongoing hormone therapy for transgender women. This is because the blockers are needed to maintain low levels of testosterone and prevent its masculinizing effects on the body.
In some cases, an orchiectomy (surgical removal of the testicles) may be performed, which can eliminate the need for testosterone blockers. However, even after an orchiectomy, it is still recommended that MTF individuals continue taking estrogen to maintain feminization and prevent osteoporosis.
It is important to note that hormone therapy, including the use of testosterone blockers, should be prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Done with the treatment and wondering what lies ahead?
Read below to find out!
What to expect after testosterone blockers mtf?
Before starting testosterone blockers mtf, you should have a clear understanding of the risks and benefits and other alternative treatment options.
MTF T blockers are started by taking spironolactone. It blocks the receptors of male sex hormones and decreases the amount of testosterone in the body.
4 to 8 weeks later after taking spironolactone, you also start taking estrogen. This promotes the development of female characteristics started due to estrogen.
It can be taken in the form of pill or injections, or in the form of cream, gel, spray and patch.
Side effects of MTF t blockers
Some very common side effects of Testosterone T blockers:
- Dry skin
- Joint pain or bone pain
- Mood swings
Are you now feeling anxious after reading about the side-effects?
Relax! You can minimize the side-effects by following proper post-op guidelines!
What are the post operative guidelines?
Postoperative guidelines for MTF individuals who have undergone gender-affirming surgery and are taking testosterone blockers may include:
- Post operative follow up
- Taking prescribed medicines
- Monitor hormone levels to prepare for any kind of complications.
- Engage in healthy lifestyle
Now, let’s come to the section that we are the most concerned about- the results!
Results after starting with Testosterone blockers MTF
The below table shows the results of taking testosterone blockers MTF:
| Result | Expected onset | Comments |
| Decreased sex drive | 1-3 months | Less spontaneous erections in the morning Insertive sex becomes more difficult for the insertive partner |
| Emotional Changes | 1-3 months | The extent depends on person to person. Hormonal changes bring about these emotional changes; they will be there until you continue with the mtf t blockers. |
| Fertility | Varies | Reduced semen production Sperms do not reach maturity Birth control is recommended |
| Decreased muscle mass | 3-6 months | Depending how much exercise you are doing, less exercise will lead to a leaner body. |
| Breast growth | 3-6 months | The amount of growth varies from person to person |
| Reduced testes size | 3-6 months | The testes may shrink to half of the initial size. |
| Body fat redistribution | 3-6 months | Less fat in abdomen More fat in hips, thighs and buttocks |
| Skin Softening | 3-6 months | The skin becomes less oily. |
| Face/body hair changes | 6-12 months | Hair growth becomes slower and thinner Reduce in hair fall and halt in male pattern baldness. Hair follicles continue producing hair |
According to Dr. Martina Ambardjieva, MD, Ph.D. Graduate, and Urologist,
“The effects of testosterone blockers vary from person to person. Generally, it takes several weeks for the body to adjust to the lower levels of testosterone and for there to be any noticeable changes in physical appearance or behavior. However, it may take up to six months for the full effects of testosterone blockers to be seen.”
Success rate of hormone blockers mtf
The therapy of hormone blockers mtf is very effective in bringing about feminine changes in individuals. The success rate is high but may vary depending on the person and their medical situation. Hence the success rates of Testosterone Blockers mtf are difficult to quantify, but they are effective in bringing about the basic feminine changes into the body.
Thinking of stopping testosterone blockers?
Then do not miss reading the below section! It may compel you to reconsider your decision!
What can be the outcomes if you stop taking Testosterone blockers MTF?
The primary purpose of testosterone blockers is to decrease the level of testosterone in the body. Stopping the administration of testosterone blockers abruptly may have several outcomes.
These include:
- Reversal of physical changes can be seen if you stop taking testosterone blockers mtf. The feminine changes brought by the hormone therapy will reverse if you stop the mtf t blockers.
- Recurrence of male pattern hair growth. Testosterone blockers might have reduced the male pattern hair growth, stopping t blockers mtf might reverse the changes.
- Stopping testosterone blockers mtf can bring about dramatic emotional changes because of the shift of hormone level.
- Stopping testosterone blockers can also increase the risk of prostate cancer and other testosterone related health conditions. This is because stopping mtf t blockers increases the amount of testosterone which leads to these conditions.
Now, let’s discuss,
What are the other treatments used along with testosterone blockers?
Along with testosterone blockers MTF, individuals may use other treatments to help promote emotional and physical changes that aligns with feminine identity.
These treatments may include:
- Estrogen therapy- it is the primary hormone used in MTF hrt. It helps promote breast development, reduce body hair growth, and redistribute body fat in a feminine pattern.
- Progesterone therapy- Some people also take progesterone along with estrogen. Progesterone also helps in increasing the breast size and reshaping the overall body figure.
- Gender affirming surgeries- Testosterone blockers mtf bring about physical and emotional changes in an individual. To align more with feminine gender, they may also decide for gender affirming surgeries along with t blockers mtf.
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By now, you may have got a fair amount of information about testosterone blockers, isn't it?
What happened? Searching for cost details?
Don’t worry! We haven't forgotten it, as we know it is one of the most important things, especially for those considering going for the treatment!
Scroll down to get all the cost information regarding testosterone blockers!
Cost of Testosterone blockers mtf?
The cost of gender affirming HRT treatment costs ranges between $30-$100 a month for individuals without insurance.
The World Professional Association for transgender health, also suggests that a normal consultation with a mental health doctor can cost between $75-$200, with no insurance.
In some cases the insurance companies also cover the cost of testosterone blockers mtf. The cost amount they will cover may vary, they will either cover a partial amount or the whole amount. This depends upon your insurance provider.
It is always necessary that you check with your insurance provider and then decide upon the treatment plan.
Want to inquire about personalized treatment expenses? Don't hesitate. Talk to us today.
Have some more questions related to testosterone blockers mtf?
Then do not miss reading the below FAQs.
You might get an answer to your question!
FAQs
Q1. Do testosterone blockers increase estrogen?
Ans. Testosterone blockers mtf blocks testosterone production in the body. Since the testosterone levels decrease this causes the estrogen levels to rise and bring about feminine changes.
Q2. What is a natural testosterone blocker?
Ans. Natural substances or edible items that reduce the amount of testosterone in the body are called natural testosterone blocker. Foods like mint, licorice root, flaxseed, alcohol and nuts are some items that are proven to naturally reduce the amount of testosterone in the body.
Q3. Can you take estrogen without testosterone blockers?
Ans. No, testosterone blockers mtf are not required for taking estrogen. If you take estrogen then the testosterone levels in the body will automatically drop as a result However it totally depends on the person who is taking it. For someone only estrogen might work, for some estrogen along with t blockers mtf might give better results. This should be decided upon proper evaluation by your doctor.
Q4. Do testosterone blockers stop growth?
Ans. Yes, testosterone blockers do limit the growth of your body. It will stop the growth in your height and broadening of your shoulders. In addition it will also stop the deepening of your voice and growth of gonads and erectile tissues.
Congratulations! With this, you have taken the first step towards a successful treatment journey!
So, what are you thinking? Now is the time to take the next step!
