Risks associated with MtF Hormone Replacement Therapy
| Risk Level | Expected Onset |
|---|---|
| Likely increased risk | Venous thromboembolic disease Gallstones Elevated liver enzymes Weight gain Hypertriglyceridemia |
| Likely increased risk with presence of additional risk factors | Cardiovascular disease |
| Possible increased risk | Hypertension Hyperprolactinemia or prolactinoma |
| Possible increased risk with presence of additional risk factors∗ | Type 2 diabetes∗∗ |
| No increased risk or inconclusive | Breast cancer |
When it comes to hormone replacement therapy, the risks involved depend largely on the type of treatment an individual undergoes and their personal circumstances. In general, men who undergo hormone replacement therapy must be aware of potential side effects as well as risks involved with male to female hormone replacement therapy. In general, if you’re thinking about undergoing hormone replacement therapy, it’s important to consult a medical professional beforehand to discuss your options and risks involved.
Depending on your circumstances, certain types of hormone treatment may not be suitable or recommended. Understanding the risks involved with male to female hormone replacement therapy can help you make an informed decision about what is best for your circumstances.
Estrogen Based Hormone Replacement Therapy
If you are undergoing estrogen based hormone replacement therapy, you will likely be prescribed synthetic estrogen in the form of an oral medication. Although estrogen can significantly reduce the effects of testosterone, there’s a risk of estrogen based hormone replacement therapy leading to a higher risk of certain diseases, particularly cancers. The risk of contracting certain cancers is significantly higher in those who take estrogen. Estrogen can increase the risk of developing certain types of cancers, such as breast and prostate cancer. When undergoing estrogen based hormone replacement therapy, it’s important to undergo regular checkups with a medical doctor to monitor potential health risks. Estrogen can also increase the risk of blood clots and weight gain. Estrogen also has a negative impact on cholesterol levels in the blood, increasing the risk of heart disease.
Progestin Based Hormone Replacement Therapy
Progestin is often used in combination with estrogen as part of hormone replacement therapy. When used in this way, it is known as a combination therapy. Progestin is often prescribed to women who have had a hysterectomy as it helps reduce heavy bleeding as a result of the surgery. It’s also often used in combination with estrogen to help prevent the risk of cancer. Progestin based hormone replacement therapy may lead to a higher risk of developing certain neurological issues. It may also negatively impact the function of the immune system, increasing the risk of certain infections and diseases. Progestin based hormone replacement therapy is not recommended for individuals with certain health conditions, such as a history of heart disease.
Testosterone Based Hormone Replacement Therapy
Testosterone based hormone replacement therapy is often accompanied by estrogen. Many individuals who undergo testosterone therapy also take estrogen. There are also synthetic forms of testosterone available, such as injections and pellets. When testosterone is used as part of hormone replacement therapy, it is often accompanied by a progestin. The progestin helps to reduce the risk of certain cancers, particularly prostate cancer. Testosterone based hormone replacement therapy may lead to an increased risk of certain diseases and negative side effects.
These include an increased risk of certain cancers, such as liver and breast cancer. Other potential side effects of testosterone hormone replacement therapy include high blood pressure, heart disease, and changes to cholesterol levels in the blood. Other risks associated with testosterone hormone replacement therapy include an increased risk of blood clots. There’s also a risk that testosterone may increase the risk of certain inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
What other risks should you be aware of?
Other potential risks associated with hormone replacement therapy include the possibility of negative reactions when taking the supplements. Hormone replacement therapy is often accompanied by adverse effects, such as changes in mood and eating habits. Hormone replacement therapy can also lead to a reduced ability to fight off infections. It can also negatively affect the capacity of the body to heal. Hormone replacement therapy can also lead to weight gain. Changes in diet and exercise are often required in order to maintain a healthy weight while undergoing hormone replacement therapy. Hormone replacement therapy can also lead to changes in the skin, such as the appearance of wrinkles and blotches.
There’s also a risk of developing various types of cancers associated with hormone replacement therapy. It’s important to be aware of these risks and the potential impact hormone replacement therapy can have on your health.
While hormone replacement therapy can be an effective treatment for the symptoms of menopause and low testosterone, it can also lead to a range of potential side effects. When undergoing hormone replacement therapy, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks involved and discuss them with a medical professional beforehand. Depending on your circumstances, certain types of hormone treatment may not be suitable or recommended. Understanding the risks involved with male to female hormone replacement therapy can help you make an informed decision about what is best for your circumstances.
∗ Additional risk factors include age.
∗∗ Risk is greater with oral estrogen administration than with transdermal estrogen administration.
