(This is in contrast with puberty blockers, which are reversible.)
Methods of Delivery
Different testosterone formulations have different methods of delivery.
Intramuscular Injections
Testosterone can be injected into the muscle (intramuscular or IM injection).
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In addition, they may need to be administered by a medical provider or family member.
Intramuscular testosterone injections are commonly used every one to two weeks.
Subcutaneous Injections
Testosterone can also be injected under the skin (subcutaneous or sub-q injection).
However, the dose is fixed after implantation.
Topical Testosterone
Testosterone can be delivered topically through gels, creams, and patches.
Testosterone gels and creams are easy to use.
However, they generally must be used daily.
In addition, it is important to keep other people from touching the gel or skin after gel utility.
Otherwise, they may also get a dose of testosterone.
There is a risk for a local skin reaction or rash with topical testosterone.
This includes testosterone patches, which can also be difficult to find and/or to get covered by insurance.
However, the release of the oral capsules Kyzatrex, Jatenzo, and Tlando allayed those fears significantly.
Risks of Testosterone Use
Testosterone treatment is not without side effects.
Some are mild to acceptable.
Others may become intolerable and require the adjustment (or even discontinuation) of treatment.
Transitioning usually begins by taking testosterone, starting with a low dose and slowly increasing the dose over time.
And testosterone can’t make you grow taller if your bones have already matured from early estrogen exposure.
Testosterone therapy is considered a lifelong treatment to maintain masculine physical characteristics.
It is much easier to undergo any desiredfertility preservationbefore hormonal gender affirmation than after.
Although it may not be common, it is possible to get pregnant if you dont have periods.
Prescription choices may be limited by the availability of certain types of testosterone.
There can also be substantial cost differences, and not all formulations are covered by all insurers.
Summary
There are several factors to consider before starting testosterone therapy.
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