| >> | The process in the states, or at least what I did goes like this: Find a therapist who specializes in gender identity issues, they'll meet with you for a while, any responsible therapist will need a few sessions for what's called the differentiation stage, where they make sure that what you're experiencing isn't because of any other conditions of the mind. They aren't by skeptical by default, and you don't even have to experience gender dysphoria to be trans, although it certainly makes this process more clear cut. Just be honest, and you have nothing to worry about, but do keep an open mind to there being any other potential issues that could be addressed, you'll find out pretty quick once you're on HRT whether or not you're right, but going through with the process when it's not right for you isn't fun. So I've heard, I had some vague doubts that were killed the moment I had my first shot of estradiol. They'll then write a referral or call one in to a doctor, it doesn't have to be an endo or anyone who specializes in this sort of thing, HRT is a pretty basic medical procedure as things go. You meet with the doctor for an initial consultation, they'll write you the orders for bloodwork, you have it done, then you come back for a full physical. Don't worry too much about this, it's not Gattaca, they just want to make sure you aren't dying.
Then you start HRT and that's pretty much it, you'll find out after a few months whether or not you would benefit from plastic surgery like FFS or a tracheal shave or whatnot, I happened to luck out in that regard, or at least I seem to be, I've only been on HRT for a month, but I have shoulders that while still kind of broad taper nicely, a face that was moderately feminine to begin with, and no discernible Adam's apple, which I think might, among other things, points to there being an element of intersexuality in my case but that's neither here nor there. Don't under any circumstances get voice surgery, it's a very dangerous procedure and you could be left mute or talking like you had a tracheostomy and similar results can be achieved with voice training.
I think the first thing to do would be to call your insurance provider and ask what is and isn't covered. Most insurance covers HRT and SRS if you get a recommendation from a licensed therapist, some plans also cover FFS, electrolysis/laser hair removal, and some even cover things like voice training. |
