During our initial visit to the doctor that I describe in My Child is Transgender, the Transformation Begins. I had compiled a list of questions to ask the doctor before my child started taking testosterone. Upon that visit, he provided me with a client information sheet that answered to most common questions asked. Here are the questions that my family and I wanted to ask and the answers that were provided to us:
Are there long-term effects of taking testosterone?
a. Currently, there is no research on the long-term effects of taking testosterone. There is ongoing research happening, and data will be coming in within the next ten years.
When he has his top surgery (breast removal), is there still a chance for breast cancer, and will he have to continue having a mammogram done?
a. It depends on the doctor chosen to remove the breasts. Some doctors leave some breast tissue, while others remove all breast tissue. To be on the safe side, he should continue to have periodic mammograms.
Will they change his birth certificate to indicate that he is now male?
a. No, his birth certificate will remain the same, but his ID Gender marker will be changed.
What effects does the testosterone have on the uterus, eggs, etc.?
a. Testosterone will put him into menopause. (That means my son and I will be going through menopause together, how many women can say that?)
Does that mean he will never be able to have children if he ever chose to have his own?
a. The effects of testosterone and fertility are still unknown. Some have gotten pregnant after stopping testosterone, but it is not common.
What are the side effects of taking testosterone?
a. Acne, blood clots, emotional changes, headache, high blood pressure, infertility, inflamed liver, abdominal fat, baldness, risk of heart disease, weight gain.
Will those side effects are monitored by the clinic?
a. Yes, bloodwork is taken every three months to check for any changes in his health.
What are the benefits of taking testosterone?
a. Lower voice, more muscle mass, bigger clitoris, more body hair, more sex-drive, my energy, protection against osteoporosis, no more menstrual periods.
Are the side effects reversible if he discontinues the use of testosterone?
a. No.
Will this change his demeanor?
a. Possibly. It’s different for everyone but can’t change his attitude emotionally.
If you are a parent that has asked questions that are not listed here, please share them with us. I would love to hear any questions that I have not thought of.
And if you want more detail on the side effects of taking testosterone, check out the article Testosterone Injection Side Effects for Men and Women.
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