Actually Understand Hormone Replacement Therapy

[@roxannemoore9694]

I would like to point out a minor correction. While feminising HRT for the menopause became widespread medical practice before use on trans women did (circa 1940). HRT was first used as a way to medically transition by the Hirschfield institute in Germany circa 1920. His research was pioneering, and the foundation of a lot of modern trans medicine but it didn't make it to prominence in the global medical community at the time, because the Nazis raided the institute and burned its research library. In fact, if you've seen an image of a Nazi book burning in a history book, it's probably from the Hirschfield one.

[@sammysamlovescats]

I'm not saying HRT will do this for everyone obviously, but just saying that after years of HRT, I went from "Several attempts on my own life" to no longer fitting the diagnostic criteria for depression

[@eacalvert]

I'm glad you're still here 😊.

[@Yuki-rh1ie]

yay!! that's amazing! i'm glad you made it through hon

[@justaname2422]

Glad you’re still here.

[@EliseVeldt-xc5wl]

congratulations

[@LilFeralGangrel]

Went from being a deeply anxious and depressed person to becoming a confident and happy trans woman. it's been great so far!

[@LillieMakesVideos]

can’t believe they forgot to mention the best change from estrogen: you gain the ability to double jump

[@abbywiley6467]

Omg no way is that a Celeste reference :O

[@stdesy]

Just a note: testosterone suppression is not always required for trans female HRT. Often estrogen by itself can cause the production of testosterone to shut down.

[@FeminalPanda]

Thats what worked for me, my T was already low before i started and taking sprio after 3 months was too much.

[@Charmlethehedgehog]

something I think should've been noted FAR MORE BOLDLY/EXPLICITLY/ISOLATED is that CIS folk are why HRT exists in the first place. There are FAR FAR FAR FAR more cis folk on HRT than trans folk. Feminizing HRT was originally made to combat menopause, iirc. Masculizing HRT was made for men who either didn't go through puberty at all or for who have Gynecomastia iirc. Puberty blockers, like they said in the video, was made to STOP KIDS from going into puberty as SMALL CHILDREN (like, 6yr olds starting puberty NEED those blockers. I've known people who had to go through puberty so early and they were MISERABLE despite being CIS). These medications are useful for trans AND cis folk just for two WILDLY different reasons; and legislation that's trying to ban it is trying to hurt such a tiny minority that they're shooting their cis citizens in the foot over it.

[@jackiehannaford]

Can confirm! Cis-woman on HRT here because my silly ovaries don't know what the heck they're doin' anymore. Can't live without the stuff.

[@OsedayCan]

I went through puberty early and exited it early. For this reason my height is below 99% of the people my age, I've developed rheumatism because of this as well. My puberty was finished when I was 14 years old. I despise my parents for not taking me to the doctor even though I told them I wasn't normal.

[@goldegreen]

My cis aunt is on HRT

[@llyallowyn8127]

This is so important to talk about because as it turns put, laws and relationships based on bigotry never hurt just your target minority because we all live in the same spaces. It's untenable as a policy and it's just plain mean.

[@FR00TJ00S]

10:33 "you do need to make sure it dries all the way so it doesn't spread to other members of your household who didn't concent to treatment" would put a whole new meaning to manspreading. I'll see myself out.

[@JackTheVulture]

oh my god 😂

[@HeyNonyNonymous]

Nah. Stick around. Terrible HRT puns are the bread and butter of the trans community.

[@neutralseife8419]

LMFAO

[@nasonguy]

BOOOOOO. BOOOOOOOOOO!!!!! . . that was actually pretty good... . BBBBBOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!

[@ZijnShayatanica]

HAHAHAHAHAHAH.

[@DouglasWatt]

I understand why you all choose to base this on the WPATH standards, but the latest research has moved faster than the WPATH standards, and it would have been nice to see some acknowledgment of that fact. Also, there is monotherapy for transfemale HRT using just estradiol, and is actively prescribed over use of anti-androgens in some countries.

[@marakahn24]

As a trans woman who started on estrogen monotherapy and more recently progesterone supplements, t-blockers are NOT always necessary for suppressing testosterone. Especially using injections and at higher dosages, estrogen will naturally suppress testosterone on its own. My personal testosterone levels have been below cis female range since I got my levels checked only 3 months into starting E2 monotherapy.

[@EmilyFara]

Entered depression at 11. Tried to end it at 17. Suffered through life till 35, tried to end it again. Finally looked at myself what was wrong with me, got HRT and I don't feel like ending it anymore. I'm pretty happy now. I GOT FEELINGS AGAIN! So weird. So happy, and that alone is weird now.

[@KieraHafermalz-Wheeler]

Same here, same ages, started hrt age 37.5 after two false starts in my early 20s and early 30s...

[@spambox3624]

I’m happy you’re still here with us Emily :>

[@taliabutton1593]

I can somewhat relate. I wasn't sui**dal but I was fairly unhappy while I was an egg. I felt peace, I felt it finally found what I hadn't even known that I'd been looking for (myself) when I realised I was a woman (and therefore trans). I got separated and divorced, but when separated and relocated, basically started over, I fully socially transitioned, and though my life was a lot harder, I was happy! And that was a year before I started hormones. I went through some emotional changes during that year, before hormones. It turned out, when I did a hormonal blood test prior to my magical pills, both, my oestrogen and my testosterone were above normal male range.

[@ChrispyNut]

I'm sorry the road was so bumpy, but glad it's smoothing off. Thanks for sharing.

[@andromededp5316]

@@EmeraldsQuartzLightwhat did you not understand? /gen

[@Aquatendo]

I’d like to add that Progesterone can do things beyond just breast growth. It improved my mental health significantly, whereas Estrogen alone did not help me in that department. I’ve heard similar stories from other people, but also stories where Progesterone made them feel worse. As always, YMMV so talk to your doctor

[@liam_hurlburt]

small correction: 17β-estradiol is what's shown at 5:07, while what's shown at 5:21 is estradiol cypionate, a common prodrug of 17β-estradiol

[@androgynygoat]

For anyone wondering what prodrugs are, they're precursors to the active form of drug, and they get converted/metabolised to the active form of drug inside your body

[@cpi23]

top comment

[@nancyreid8729]

I clicked on this to get more information on post-menopausal HRT, because that’s where I am. Stayed for the usual great information on a different topic altogether; well done!

[@amandacapsicum686]

The problem with most of the studies on progesterone affecting breast growth is that the measurements taken in the studies do not align with the anecdotally reported changes in breast development. Trans women tend to report rounding of the breasts, whereas the studies are checking a band measurement (as in a bra fitting). It seems like more science needs to be done for us to say either way whether the anecdotal rounding is causally linked to the progesterone, or simply caused by being on HRT for a long time / gaining weight.

[@websterleone]

Re progesterone: I started progesterone and my tits doubled in size. YMMV. Also all the clot stuff is from studies with non-bioidentical progesterone. The increased risk is basically saying you have the same risk as cis-women. 🤷‍♀

[@MsSunnyDenise]

You know, there was a time when the only people taking HRT were old women going through menopause. As an old woman going through menopause, I hafta say it’s nice to know I’m not the only one out here taking HRTs.

[@EmmaHopman]

Back in the 80s the only way to get HRT was through the extremely rare doctor who'd do it, or taking medicine without a doctor. I know a couple trans women who've been on it for about 40 years. They used a different type of estrogen that was far more dangerous at that time. The advancements made have been great for trans people.

[@jajajasputin8927]

I never thought about it that way. That's really interesting! The more we normalize HRT will destigmatize it for everyone, not just the trans community

[@beesquestionmark]

@@EmmaHopmanI love learning about trans history. You may already know this, but with the recent uptick in transphobia, people are turning back to “DIY” HRT (and it’s still dangerous because obviously a doctor needs to monitor the person getting treatment). It’s pretty sad to see that people have to go through that even when there are safe options, because their families or even professionals keep them from bodily autonomy :(

[@ztoical]

I clicked on this video because I thought it was about menopause 😂 still watched it all way through

[@ValeVin]

Thank you from a young(er) trans girl: because of all the data from older women going through menopause who happened to have the same health issue I had, my doctors were surprised to find a glut of data and researchers to talk to. I started the path being told it might be too dangerous, then six months later I was surprised to see that there was a way forward without any increased risk. I'm happy to provide HRT solidarity with cis women. Heck, if not for all that data, I wouldn't have gotten to start HRT at all =]

[@rhov-anion]

Back in the mid-90s, long before terms like "genderfluid" existed, I was friends with a kid who didn't fit any gender. They'd go by one name on more "feminine" days, and ask us to go by another name on more "masculine" days. We didn't get it, but we're all a little weird, so we accepted that this was just THEIR version of weird. They'd tell us first thing in the morning, "It's a XYZ day," and we called them by that name. For years, my friend assumed they must be transgender, but that didn't really fit their experience. I still recall their joy at learning the term "genderfluid." Finally, there was a word for what they had lived through for over a decade! Today, they are happy, married, and raising a little girl, who has the coolest parents in town.

[@mangostien8646]

This is so sweet man ;-;

[@kaylaa2204]

Gender-fluid was a term coined in the 80s, it’s just that mid 90s was the early days of the internet and whether people were familiar depended on your social circle These days terms like this spread through cultural osmosis much more easily. One of the good things the internet does for us.

[@ThisisI.T.]

Whoever is moderating this comment section is a saint, and to everyone dropping positive comments, y'all are warming this trans girl's heart. It's nice to see that people into learning are also kind and accepting

[@EmmaHopman]

🩵🩷🤍🩷🩵

[@richarddresden6869]

Amen!!!

[@ChrispyNut]

That has been my life's experience. I'm unsure which is the chicken and which the egg however. Is it that people who're curious to learn and open to different possibilities, or is that that people who're open to possibilities are curious to learn?!? I'd expect it's [at least usually] those who're open minded, as those who're close minded are only interested in affirming their beliefs.

[@CiudadanoDin]

Just wanted to say, thank you for being here, sis. You're loved and welcomed and never alone. Big hugs from a Mexican NB sibling. ❤

[@hindigente]

I know, right? A trans friendly comment section is so refreshing to see outside of LGBTQa+ bubbles.

[@hkdl2000]

As a Cismale, I've never understood why we would restrict anyone's bodily autonomy. I learned a lot about HRT thanks!

[@EmmaHopman]

Absolutely, it's people being afraid of what they don't know. Also a small thing here, it's normally "cis male" instead of cismale. Same thing with trans male or trans man. Cis and trans are grammatically just like "tall" or "short". So instead of saying tallman we would say tall man.

[@ChrispyNut]

Because it's a threat to the status quo, which many rely on to an unhealthy degree, whilst others have reshaped who are to fit the status quo and reset those who reject it, to be themselves. Neither are invalid, but both would benefit from the status quo being accommodating of the diversity our species has.

[@raredischotline]

As an older person on HRT, thank you for covering this. The resurgence of hate because of the new generation of visibility has been scary, and getting people to understand our lives is a fantastic step.

[@someguynamedelan]

A friend of mine was intersex and didn’t find out until they were in their 30’s. They transitioned to female, not just because of gender incongruity but because she was getting horrible migraines. When I knew her as a man, she was a stoner and was probably trying to self medicate. When she got HRT the migraines went away and she accepted herself. And it took some time for me to accept her.

[@axofbrevity]

I'm glad you came around. Sometimes it's difficult to challenge what we know of the world, and being willing to grow for the benefit of your friend makes you a better person :)

[@HotDogTimeMachine385]

I wish more people knew about Intersex people, and especially what doctors do to them way too often.

[@kashphlinktu]

Did she get migraines on a regular schedule or at random? Asking because this sounds familiar

[@kashphlinktu]

I’m trying to figure something out, so any information you are able to give might be useful

[@SwordOfBlueThunder]

Hey, at least you grew as a person from this experience! Happy you could learn and grow about this!

[@laurenhallock4045]

for feminizing hormone therapy:(i am not a doctor but i am a trans woman whose been transitioning for 5 years) spiro is not a great option for androgen blocker, it works but it actually stunts potential for breast growth, don’t start with spiro if you can help it (learned this the hard way) progesterone definitely does work for breast growth, idk what this person is saying, but for best results don’t start this right away, mixed reports that administering progesterone rectally yields better results monotherapy is also an option( not using a androgen blocker) your body will develop based on your dominant hormone finasteride is a good option for regaining hair loss, but it does not function as a total androgen blocker, it only blocks the DHT in testosterone that causes balding, all other effects are still there FINALLY find a trans friendly, trans-educated doctor that actually knows what they are doing, just because an endocrinologist will treat you doesn’t mean they should treat you, talk to other trans people in your area, do research, not only will it be a better experience but your results will be better if your doctor has experience and knows how to treat trans people

[@tranmthu]

As a cis woman I started hormonal birth control with 25 to stop my period as my PCOS causes it not to be periodic anyway. I had too many side effects on the regular BC pills but now I'm taking dienogest as a stand alone medication to treat a possible case of endometriosis and it works better. Trans and nb folks should not have to jump through hoops to get hormonal care similar to what cis people can get already. I'm lucky that my insurance covers my meds because of endometriosis so it's only 5€ for 3x28 pills, but what I really want is a hysterectomy. Too bad sexism makes it really difficult to get that done as doctors still believe all women want kids or should consider their future spouse might want kids. Our society needs to overcome its belief in the gender binary and gendered stereotypes in order to offer better health care for all.

[@thezaftigwendy]

I don't know if you're aware of this, but PCOS is one of the conditions that can fall under the intersex umbrella. Learning that and accepting myself as intersex made me feel much more accepting of my PCOS body.

[@axofbrevity]

Medical misogyny is a real problem! I'd been asking for a hysterectomy since my 20s, and was only granted it after being on testosterone for over a year. It makes me angry that I'm taken more seriously in the doctor's office now, that shouldn't be what it takes. Now, obviously that wasn't why I went on testosterone, and I am glad to be taken seriously, but someone shouldn't have to be seen as masculine to get the care they need, that's ridiculous! Hysto was great btw, plus my surgeon found endometriosis and removed it so I'm no longer in pain which is nice. I'm hoping your treatment helps you manage yours and that you're able to get hysto when/if you want to do so.

[@creatinghanley]

Here in the USA, a menopausal woman seeking HRT is not easy because doctors are super reluctant to care for women properly. So it’s not easy for cis or trans folks to get what they need, but I’m inclined to seek a trans doc to get menopausal support.

[@bread9173]

I am NB and I was also diagnosed with PCOS at 16. I had some obvious hirsutim (beard hair as I call it). I started taking progesterone only at 16 since I don't like having a hirsutism, but I also don't like being more feminine and the bad side effects from estrogen. I can't tolerate estrogen due to other health conditions. Progesterone only works great for me and I am 23 now. Also, stopping my period makes me not go through gender dysphoria every month lol I agree it should be easier for my trans and nb folks to have access to medication, especially since we have known how it has worked for a very long time. What I am doing is technically HRT since I am fine with my high T level already, but I don't want it to get too high to the point I get a beard again, hence progesterone.

[@kevinrice7291]

I’m a cisgender male, and honestly I’m just curious about the whole trans thing. I find it fascinating. I never really understood the controversy, i can see why it is confusing to some people, but being prejudice towards these people is no different to me than being racist or homophobic or a bully. Just small minded, needless hatred. If there’s something we don’t understand about other people, we should try to be curious and understand it! Especially if it doesn’t get in the way of our personal daily lives. If someone wanted sympathy for being a serial killer or a violent person then it would be understandable to look at it as a problem that needs to be gone asap. Why would anyone care if someone wants to make adjustments to their gender in order to feel more safe and comfortable? Like seriously it’s not even anyone else’s business. If you want to hate something, might I suggest hating the scumbags that cook fentanyl, or world leaders that start pointless wars that kill thousands of people. I mean really don’t we have more important things to criticize?

[@PixelPalettes]

This is genuinely the most based comment I’ve ever read, thank you so much for being an ally 🙏

[@dragonknight1595]

Let me tell you something: you are speaking EXACTLY what I was thinking. My philosophy when interacting with people is I don’t care who they are, what they are, where they come from, how much money they have, what they believe in, etc. As long as that person is a good person, I will get along with them splendidly. Wish more people thought like you, because far too many are wasting energy just hating.

[@aff77141]

In some societies, anything different must be stamped out because it's a threat to the status quo

[@bladethehedgehog3]

Trans man here. I've been on testosterone for three years, and I fully love talking about my experience. I'm happy to answer questions!

[@curseyoujordanshow]

Honestly, it's just the classic, old as time story of people being afraid of what they don't understand. There's a sense of comfort and security in feeling like you know everything you need to know; Most transphobes weren't taught about trans people growing up, so now that they're being told there's something new to learn that they didn't know before, they resist it purely reflexively. It's safer to assume something you don't understand might somehow pose a potential threat to you, and that's a tough barrier for a lot of people to crack through.

[@odiechan]

I adore that you guys acknowledged those of us who choose not to medically transition. We often get forgotten in these conversations so it was very nice to hear you guys include it. ❤

[@ZijnShayatanica]

I'm really happy for anyone who can feel comfortable w/ themselves & not feel the need to get HRT or surgery! I hate being dependent on the medical system [& the politicians practicing w/o a license] to be my best self, but... That's just how life be for the foreseeable future.

[@charleston1789]

Y’all are valid and absolutely deserve to be part of the conversation too 👍🤍

[@loganskiwyse7823]

Best ever explanation I have heard on this was, "The hormones work and the plumbing works, why risk breaking something if I am happy as is now".

[@marc-andreservant201]

I learned a lot in this video as a cis man (he/him), especially the idea that trans people don't get surgery or drugs that permanently affect one's appearance without a psychiatric diagnosis and informed consent. What the hormone therapy will do to your body will be explained by your doctor and you have the choice to accept or refuse the treatment based on your personal needs and beliefs. Nobody is forcing treatment on anyone without consent. Tell that to your representative or senator if they think informed consent isn't involved. As with any medical procedure, you will be informed of the benefits and risks, and the ultimate decision belongs to the patient, not the government. Doctors, not politicians, should be setting the standard of care for gender dysphoria based on the best available clinical evidence.

[@FunSam]

You know what? I learned stuff. And that's progress.

[@nebulabunny8633]

thanks for informing yourself! :>

[@oiitsoranglee]

good job bestie

[@kidsto2612]

Knowledge is a gift :D

[@tomsawyer7138]

Thank you, so much

[@elizabethveldonstuff]

Yes it is :-)

[@LarkyLuna]

A thing that has nothing to do with anything but still important to know At least one hair loss medication is toxic to pets (minoxidil) If your care involves gels or anything that can be passed through contact, go read how it affects anyone in your house

[@PixelBytesPixelArtist]

I started taking puberty blockers when i was 12 between tanner 2 and 3, and then started taking estradiol at 15. Im almost 20 and have no regrets and intend to keep being female the rest of my life. Receiving care is one of the best things that happened to me and let me experience a pivotal time of my life as who i actually am and its helped me be much more similar to other girls.

[@ornithomancy]

i wish my parents were as accepting as yours

[@MelindaGreen]

The reason HRT likely increases blood lipid levels is because that's how fat distribution works! Levels should go back to normal once that's done, so don't panic. Also, while WPATH is well-meaning, a perverse consequence is that it creates gatekeepers between individuals and the treatments they want. WPATH should be pressured to not require psychologists to "approve" our identities to get any treatment. In the worst case, we may make mistakes we will regret, but they will be _our_ mistakes!

[@neutrois-hx3ek]

the video says wpath is recommending informed consent though?

[@sarahenson9659]

I clicked on this as a woman in perimenopause, hoping for information on treating hot flashes and insomnia. Staying so I can be a good friend and ally.

[@TheRealBatabii]

I almost expected you to say "and finished watching as a man"

[@dianainthezone]

Great info on it! Hot flashes can be made much worse by sugar free, by stimulants like caffeine and alcohol, and by slight wheat allergies. Try avoiding each one at a time to see which is causing the issues. HRT for menopause only delays the inevitable and increases possible side effects like cancer. 24 years experience in menopause here.

[@ZijnShayatanica]

​@@TheRealBatabiiLMAO

[@ZijnShayatanica]

Thank you for being awesome!! 💕 Hot flashes suck, lmao. One of the first symptoms I got when I started Testosterone. I'd just be chilling out & suddenly PANIC, OVERHEATED, HEART RACING. And then I'd contemplate going to Urgent Care, but it went away by the time I finished the thought. They REALLY don't prepare you for all the effects of hot flashes!! You think "oh, I'm just gonna sweat" but it is a full-on adrenaline response. What a garbage phenomenon, hahahahah 😂🤣

[@erraticonteuse]

A friend of mine recently started HRT for perimenopause, but since we are in our 30s, when she first said "HRT" without specifying why, I had to hedge my bets and say "I hope you are getting the results you are after!" 😂

[@samwinchester9362]

Im two months on testosterone today, and genuinely? For me at least, I went in that time from "one bad day away from yet another suicide attempt", to "actually i can see a world where im happy and the path to it". Ive started exercising, taking better care of myself, and enjoying what I look like in the mirror. I've been very lucky- my voice PLUMMETTED very quickly already, and that was something i was most dysphoric about. I actually want to be around to see what my future holds, and I have never, ever thought i would live very long. Now im talking about what i want to do when I turn 70. I feel ALIVE. Its early, but even this early i know without a doubt it saved my life, both literally and quality wise.

[@letitiajeavons6333]

Did you develop the ability to sing Tenor or baritone? Choirs are always looking for tenors.

[@kts8900]

I'm so glad you are here! and I hope that with or without testosterone (since life can sometimes take away things), you continue to feel ALIVE, and know you can again.

[@axofbrevity]

It's the same for me, and happened very quick too. I'm actually way LESS angry on testosterone. Before testosterone I was incredibly tense, I cried for extremely minor reasons and in a very disordered fashion. Now I'm just... free from that. My emotions are so much more easy to manage.

[@_MADAMIMADAM_]

Yay! 🥹

[@benjamindesjarlais5713]

Hey man, I don't know you or anything about you besides what you wrote here, and I'll probably never see another comment from you bc the internet is so vast, but all the same, I'm so glad you're going to see your bright future, and I wish you all the best 💖

[@boogiesb733]

Given the current tone of conversation around transgender and nonbinary people, thank you so much for choosing to tackle this anyway, and doing what you can to provide the unexposed with vocabulary, perspective and research. From the bottom of my transgender heart thank you!!

[@Pyrosity]

Anecdotally (from myself, everyone I know, and many who I have heard talk about it), Progesterone is also VERY useful for improving libido. As a trans woman with no gonads, I actually also take testosterone gel (at a low dose) in addition to estrogen. My body does not naturally produce almost any of either E or T anymore, so adding T back in has really helped me with libido, fatigue, and temperature regulation. The low dose means I'm only going up into normal female ranges; no hair or voice changes to worry about. Overall, trans healthcare is in desperate need of additional research. There is still very little in the way of qualified studies to rely on so we have to resort to anecdotal evidence for person specific care.

[@raixira]

My libido actually increased when I got on estrogen, even before I started taking progesterone. I didn't realize until I started transitioning just how much dysphoria I actually experienced. From about 8 months in, I even started questioning if I was really demisexual XD

[@mausoleion_]

My experience starting HRT as a non binary minor: Getting the prescription was an absolutely laborious process. Even though we discussed my goals at the beginning and my doctor understood I specifically wanted to be on testosterone, they spent over a year putting me on different birth control "just to try this first and see how you feel", even though I didn't mind my period. They even misled me about the nature of depo-provera's gender-affirming effects and said that some people call it "testosterone lite" (nobody does that). Eventually the doctor simply told me that, as a non binary person, HRT wasn't the recommended treatment for me and would not prescribe it. I don't know what that claim was based on or why the practice essentially led me on for all that time but I left the place thinking about dying. Fortunately I was able to get an appointment at an LGBTQ-focused practice with a much simpler informed consent model and knowledgable, caring staff. They've been great ever since and 7 years on, I'm much better. This experience was not unique or extreme, and that's what makes the rhetoric around trans kids so wild. The myth that a child can walk into a doctor's office and be handed a prescription for hormones right there is pure fantasy. Not to mention that a parent needs to consent, often both, and they could simply refuse like my mom did at first. When you know who you are and what you need, going through the "wrong puberty" is agonizing and I still think about the pain I could have been saved by starting even sooner. Nobody deserves to lose their childhood or their life to dysphoria. Thank u SciShow

[@Iflie]

Yeah my cousin went through too early puberty so they used puberty blocking hormones to wait until it was actually time and she grew up just fine. I think it will have been used far more by cis gendered kids than thans kids. And it can save lives as the teenage years are hard on their own already.

[@monicarenee7949]

I’m a cis woman who started my period at 11 and if I even knew that were an option I would have loved that

[@WireMosasaur]

In lgbt+ circles lately I've seen the (semi-) joking use of the term "cis+" (as in "New Game+") to describe cisgendered folks who have opened up and dived into and examined the whole gender thing and concluded "hmm yep, that's cool and interesting but I'm definitely cis", gaining a deeper understanding of themselves in the process. Seeing a lot of that in the comments today and it warms my heart tremendously

[@chey7691]

Shorthand for an educated ally? It would definitely go over the heads of a-holes and become a new "slur" they accuse people of using.

[@sleuthed]

The "testosterone causes anger" thing is SO damaging. I grew up in an abusive home and being told this over and over made me so scared I would become a monster like my father. Doctors always asked me if I felt rage as I began HRT. But I never did. I am calmer and more balanced. Not hating myself goes a long way.

[@lancesmith8298]

It does, generally, cause higher rates of impulsivity, which can become anger, or risk taking, or literally anything besides strictly anger and nothing else. However, no matter how much influence it has on behavior, hormones are one cog in a vast biological machine, and nurture matters far more than nature here. When I sit down and get my estrogen, I expect basically nothing to change about the fundamental core of my being, only my body and my mood to a lesser extent. I can’t quite tell which direction you’re going from context clues, but regardless, the fact that you worry at all about how you treat others and talk to other people about your problems is proof you’re better than your father.

[@condor237]

Trenbolone does

[@tacticianmara]

I got angrier cause it gave me some self respect and i suddenly cared more about people being rude or disrespectful lol

[@CorwinFound]

Trans guy here. It's based on the idea that extremely high doses of T (as used by body builders) _may_ cause rage in cis men. But of course us trans guys are taking doses of T to match typical cis male levels. So no rage and actually having hormones that are a better fit actually reduce emotional liability. One of many bad trans myths.

[@reedrendered]

if i never experimented with my gender, i never would’ve truly known that I am cisgender. Shout outs to all my non-cisgender colleges friends and family for finding yourself

[@wilhelm.i]

I tell people this about kids all the time. If a 5 year old goes 'Maybe I'm a boy' and picks a boy name and boy clothes and lives as a boy- and then at 7 goes 'Maybe I'm not a boy. I was wrong.' The worst thing that happened was that they learned more about themselves and got to experience their family and community loving them unconditionally. Wow. So bad. Childhood ruined. If a 5 year old goes 'Maybe I'm a boy' and gets nothing but abuse and a lack of support, they're going to remember that shit whether they're cis or trans. Even if their parents legitimately had the best intentions- They're being given the lesson that they can't go to the adults in their life for help. And that's 100% what parents what to be teaching their kids. [Tone note: The last part of each paragraph is sarcastic.]

[@iloveyoubigmantyrone5609]

shout out to my cisgender siblings who explored their gender!!! will always feel comfy around you

[@CorwinFound]

And shout out to you too for discovering you are cis! Gender exploration needs to be normalized. Sometimes people will discover they are trans and most of the time not. But a better understanding of self and gender is _never_ a bad thing and should be celebrated regardless of the outcome!

[@minacapella8319]

Okay, sci show, i had a lot of respect for you before but now i have an immense appreciation for your work because youre helping to destroy the blatant lies in propaganda made to demonize us

[@alexandersage967]

"You're perfect and I love you" As a cis man, I know they weren't directing that at me, but I loved it

[@andromededp5316]

Everyone deserves to hear these words every once in a while. So, dear Alexander, let me tell you : you are valued. You are loved. You deserve happiness and acceptance. You are perfect just the way you are. Thank you for being here

[@SteveAkaDarktimes]

we Cis Men have to take any positive affirmation wherever we can find it.

[@Vanta_Blue]

Honestly. That sort of thing should be directed at everyone. ♥

[@toripaterson2559]

Youre perfect and i love you, cis man

[@aleks-33]

It WAS directed at you. Thanks for being here. ❤

[@pineapplewhatever5906]

3:05 "no catch-all really catches us all" Does a pokeball work?

[@mroguretxs9651]

You're welcome to try :3

[@AnonymousFreakYT]

Only if it's a Master Ball.

[@golwenlothlindel]

Shhhh! Don't tell them!

[@tauntingeveryone7208]

I believe there is an instance in the games of a master ball failing. So no catch-all really catches us all is true.

[@BloodWolfXZ]

In sword and shield, I caught Zacian with a quickball, it's literally a trans-flag colored wolf... so maybe try that? You gotta be fast, years of living in a terrible world have made many lgbtqmon skittish. Definitely don't lower their health first, they've had it rough enough as it is.

[@DanielleWhite]

The pathologization for diagnosis also had a habit of requiring performing a stereotype of gender to get the diagnosis. I called it "Stepford Wife Transition" due to what I experienced in the 90s and 00s. I dressed how they required to get the referral letters and prescriptions and then lived as s butch motorcycle rider the rest of the time

[@ZijnShayatanica]

Yeah, that sounds really rough... The practice of having to "prove" yourself via stereotype also enforced a lot of toxic masculinity in the older generation of trans men. But I'm so glad you get to live your best life!! It's always encouraging to me to see trans people who've survived. 💕

[@erraticonteuse]

When I was in middle school, there was one of those teen shows where their shop teacher announced her transition and then started wearing hyper feminine clothes. The show made it very clear she was only doing that to get the treatment she needed and I remember being so upset that nobody would expect a cis* woman shop teacher to dress like that, so it was unfair the trans woman on the show had to. Didn't realize how radical that show was until much later. Glad you're living your best butch life now! * didn't know that word at the time, of course.

[@RandonActs5]

I had an X that started taking insulin subcutaneously(in the fat) and was using lens wipes to wipe the area. Turns out lens wipes have soap in it and that was why she had irritated injection sites. Same thing will happen with any injection you take. Make sure you understand exactly what you are doing and ask your doctor if there is any confusion or if something unusual happens.

[@EliasDesAiles]

Wow the comments are actually nice. Great job whoever is keeping things clean! Since I'm seeing some others drop tips, here are a few I've picked up: - If a little bit of liquid comes out of the injection site, it's generally a negligible amount, so no worries! Next time try leaving the needle in for a few extra seconds after you're done injecting, to give it more time to spread out. - If you live at a high altitude, the pressurized vials for injectable medications might cause the liquid to leak out. You can pull some of the air inside the vial into the syringe before removing the needle to help prevent this happening. - If you really hate needles but injections are all that is available to you, look into auto injectors or shot blockers. These can mask the pain or even the whole needle, taking a lot of the stress out of things. If you've read all this, then thank you, and I wish you all the best wherever your life takes you. ❤ (Even if that means butt hair. 😂)

[@mobiusfanblade]

Also relevant is the Z-track method, and using separate needles for drawing from the vial and injection. Anyone doing injections long term need to also look into coring (bit of the rubber stopper coming along for the ride) or glass filter drawing needles if they use single use vials.

[@xerofelix7090]

Thanks! That's great to know!

[@Charlie.1066]

ooh i didn't know you could get auto injectors for hrt! that'll be handy!

[@kiaradoesart9682]

It annoys me that trans research is seen as spicy, since the info we’d get from it would benefit literally everyone. I’m a cis woman and I would LOVE more concrete research into when/how and why to stop periods, and that’s research that would equally benefit trans men and nb folks. Science accompanying trans folks on their journeys could potentially yield solid scientific counters to all the cultural bullcrap we’ve all grown up with too. Trans folks are in such a uniquely powerful position to teach us all about how the human body really works in terms of sex and gender and it’s so frustrating that medical science isn’t seeing them as the blessing that they are!

[@fl00fydragon]

Thank you so much for this video I am trans and I was stonewalled from transitioning for a decade due to the fearmongering on HRT that led to lack of proper support. This made me nudge my studies to analyze hormone function (albeit not in humans as my field doesn't deal with us) to allow me to understand the science behind it and make my case. Such a video is an extremely useful resource and I wish this information was readily available much sooner instead of having our lives wasted. Ah well, it's not like I'm not a fighter. All we need is regenerative medicine to take back the life that was wasted from the universe's cold, uncaring claws. Hence why I've focused on pushing for it in any way I can.

[@TheCyberchickz]

Endocrinology is such a fascinating area of biology.

[@melindaroewe5765]

A spicy thank you from a mom on cis gender HRT and has a child on their journey. Hope everyone has safe travels on the hormone road.

[@godofbiscuitssf]

You're a good mom for taking care of your child while they're figuring things out -- by giving them the time and space to do so.

[@lolnamelollastname9788]

Cis HRT = menopause or similar, right?

[@aurioh]

I wanted to throw in an extra comment on androgen blockers: Spironolactone is the most common and is considered standard in the U.S., but it's effectiveness as a testosterone blocker is fairly suspect and it comes with some unhelpful side effects as it is also a diuretic. Cyproterone is used in some European countries if I recall correctly and iirc is more effective, but also has some rare but potentially serious side effects. Bicalutamide is emerging as a common alternate to both which is not consistently effective for everyone and is hard to measure since it blocks T-receptors rather than production, but it lacks the side effects and when it works is now considered best by many in the trans community. For those on injections, estrogen monotherapy is also an option for some who have naturally low testosterone levels or who find estrogen on its own (or with a kickstart from a temporary androgen blocker dose) does a fine job of keeping testosterone levels low. Also on progesterone: the lack of studies supporting progesterone as causing breast growth is for a few reasons. There's a lot of factors that go into it - genetics, eating enough, whether your estrogen/testosterone levels are where they should be, and others, so measuring whether progesterone is actually helpful for breast growth is very inconsistent. There's also just very little research into these kind of things in the first place. Many people I know who have taken it have seen at least some extra growth (though not all) and the large majority have had their breasts "fill out" from a more conical kind of shape common among trans women to more typical shapes. Also, the risk of blood clots going up on progesterone is from a very old study where medroxyprogesterone was the standard medication used as a progesterone, whereas the bioidentical form that is common now doesn't show evidence of that risk. It should also be noted that many people who take progesterone see an increase in libido, which often drops when starting androgen blockers and/or estrogen.

[@mrcall02]

It's refreshing to see a channel like SciShow covering this topic. You see so many anti-trans people trying to use science to justify their transphobia, without realizing that science is not on their side.

[@dmonee6196]

Oh many of them know it’s not, that’s why they try to discredit education, doctors, researchers and pretty much anyone that disagrees with them (which is most everyone who is educated on the matter). It’s all gaslighting and then their base of manipulated rabble use it as an excuse to hate on anyone different from them because they never got to be so free.

[@Maverick_Mad_Moiselle]

"Without realizing that science is not on their side." They don't actually care about that. Never did. They just want excuses to keep bullying others.

[@Sandstimes]

It took me a while to realize and and come to terms with the fact that some people just don't care at all about truth, as a concept it means nothing to them. The only thing that matters to them is their own comfort or selfish gain, they will knowingly lie and manipulate to achieve that end (at least prominent influencers who spread trans hate do)

[@_MADAMIMADAM_]

They realize it. They just lie about it.

[@soulknife20]

Feel like the comment section might get spicy

[@Fatso97]

The vocal majority is transphobic so can't say I'm surprised

[@AaronGeo]

Prejudice never dies.

[@Dr._is_sleepy]

Oh ofc.

[@rexxe001]

Ah yes for the food right?

[@homosapien6031]

Yup. That’s inevitable

[@callosamiusprometheus7350]

HRT got rid of my anaemia, allowing me to finally exercise without exhaustion and make great strides in improving my health, including losing 50 lbs and no longer being obese. It's not only my mental stability that's been improved by HRT. 😊

[@soulknife20]

People don't understand that HRT is a proven medical procedure that's been around for years

[@jarigoli]

Thank you for covering this topic.

[@DawnBurn]

Literally in tears. I'm married to a trans woman. There are trans kids in my social group. It is so so so scary out there right now and this is a positive light and information. Thank you.

[@shmoo42]

I never got to a life threatening point but my dissociative state and dysmorphia was enough to start HRT and now I just feel so normal and unified with my own body which has been detached my whole life.

[@jackielinde7568]

As a transwoman, I can say that feeling we either can't ask for care or won't be given it because, "We're not sitting in the kitchen with a 'chef's tool' contemplating taking matters into our own hands" is a very common one. I'm glad things have changed in 26 years since I first realized this about myself. But from what I heard, that's not supposed to be the case.

[@Dragonrage1oo1]

Just want to give whoever is having to sort through the filth in the comment section some thanks for doing what they're doing :) It's just tragic, as a trans person myself, to see the like to dislike ratio on this video, and was really scared for the comment section, but thankfully it appears the transphobes weren't allowed entry. It's just a really nice thing to do, and I really appreciate it :D

[@naomiwright4895]

I've been on HRT for nearly 4 years now. Words cannot explain how much happier I am now than I was before.

[@clayre839]

It's worth pointing out that the primary study cited in the increased risk of blood clots for those prescribed progesterone was based on a study sample of postmenopausal women and the statistics do not appear to Bear out the same way for trans women

[@Robin-ps9wq]

HRT completely changed my life. I went from feeling severely depressed, constant panic attacks and discomfort to unequivocal normalcy. I've been on it almost 5 years now, starting at 17, my body has reshaped, my voice is deep, my muscles are stronger and my appetite is back. My emotions are much flatter and barely noticeable so I rarely cry and the way pain and fear effects me has flipped, I used to freak out and now its like a "ow that hurt.. anyways" im talking stubbing my toe, burning myself, or seeing a spider. On the flip side, I have a GF on HRT as well, I have noticed her emotions flip as well, going from that neutral state to a heightened sensitive one. It has actually been very interesting watching ourselves change next to each other because you pick up on things most studies don't. It really is true that male and female emotions and pain tolerances are physically different.

[@Anonymous-m9f9j]

16:11 thank you for this. There’s so much pressure out there in the community to be a thing. I don’t want people to be a thing I just want people to be who they are. I just want them to be happy and safe

[@RogueRobin]

The accuracy on the butt hair. My friend described it as "pooping through a screen door."

[@DrDingsGaster]

xD Holy shit that's great! I'm glad I don't deal with the asshair yet.

[@hoosierpioneer]

Ha ha and ick!

[@EmmaHopman]

It's even better when you braid it!

[@Danielle_1234]

D: !!

[@baconmantube]

honestly feminising HRT to get away from the butt hair has been 90% of my euphoria

[@Justanotherabnormalperson]

Please continue doing this, please, please, this world needs accessible, widespread, reliable sources of information like yours. Thank you for all the amazing work that you do, you ARE making a difference❤❤❤

[@Kittyinshadows]

Transphobia/sexism and misinformation about hrt is also really damaging to cis folk. Besides the use for hormone imbalances, there's also evidence that they can help in certain medical conditions. For example, testosterone potentially helping with joint pain or helping to treat breast cancer. There are lots of women who might benefit from testosterone who's Drs won't give their patients "mens" hormones. As a biologist I find HRT so fascinating for the things its teaching us abt genetics and the human body!

[@vaszgul736]

Thank you for making this video, I was recently shocked by how little someone I knew understood about testosterone and estrogen in general. I am continually flabbergasted by people believing things like that women 'don't have any testosterone' naturally, or that testosterone 'only makes you grow a beard and serves no other purpose' as well as the idea that 'the only thing estrogen does is produce breast tissue' as well as other vast underestimates and misinformation. I would love a video on all the things these hormones do to a human body in any situation and generally better sex ed in schools because it seems people get their misinfo from sex ed or a lack of sex ed. "you'll start producing testosterone and grow body hair" seems to be all many men ever learn about it.

[@matthewtoohey4103]

+1 for a video on what testosterone, oestrogen and other 'sex' hormones do in bodies.

[@Shinjo-]

I live in Oklahoma and had a 19 year old straight up ask me "So what even IS estrogen and testosterone?" It's a deliberate societal flaw to keep people uneducated.

[@Offutticus]

When I had my hysterectomy, the doc handed me a form to sign that said I fully understand I could not get pregnant. I laughed and handed it back. She said it was a serious form and that a LOT of women (and husbands) became angry because they didn't understand that. I had just my uterus removed since, upon inspection, the ovaries were fine. I had several well educated, intelligent, wonderful women say "oh, that means you still get your period. bummer."

[@BoyProdigyX]

Is it true that in cis males, testosterone is produced in the testicles? And if so, do cis females make theirs in their ovaries? I'm admittedly ignorant to a lot of this stuff, and your post started me wondering...

[@tamilynbowman1148]

Great job on the video! Most of that was correct, but I really would recommend that you consult with some trans women and not just a trans man in the future. Trans men do not speak for trans women and visa versa. I would warn against using just an androgen blocker with no estrogen, as it can lead to osteoporosis. I also recommend consulting with experts on how to more appropriately discuss non western understandings of gender

[@angelainamarie9656]

10 years on HRT as of about Oct. Loving it still!

[@nebulabunny8633]

looking great!! :>

[@andromededp5316]

Congrats!

[@nyralotep]

Other people's healthcare choices are really none of my business. It should only be between a doc and the patient. Having said that I like to learn about this to explain to others if I'm ever asked.

[@andromededp5316]

If you have any questions I can answer them for you, as a trans woman!

[@eggsbox]

i _would_ agree completely with this but sadly even in a country which generally has better trans healthcare than others (NZ), that's a very recent development for us and to this day i _still_ hear horror stories about mistreatment of trans patients exactly _because_ their business is left up to them and their doctors, and you often see instances where patients aren't treated like they're capable of doing diligent research, and/or their doctor treats the patient as if they know the patient better than the patient knows themself. it's present in medical treatment in general, sure, but as with other systems/infrastructures, it often disproportionately affects marginalized groups like trans people, and the path on from that is awareness and scrutiny.

[@cerulity32k]

I'm turning 18 tomorrow, when I will be able to see an endocrinologist. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and support!

[@HayTatsuko]

Thanks very much for this. My CRNP recently took me off my HRT and I think there's some sort of serious misunderstanding on her part about the appropriate hormone levels (estradiol was firmly in normal range for ciswomen, testosterone was slightly above high limit for cismale (I'm AMAB, of course). Thing is, my T blocker was bicalutamide -- which disables the body's T receptors -- so the high T level didn't even matter, from what I understand. Think I'm going to be looking for a new PHP soon, at a local LGBT+ friendly clinic, and get a second opinion.

[@MrSlatra]

Pleasantly surprised by the comments section. SciShow has the best community.

[@matthewtoohey4103]

I suspect there's a crack team of moderators at work ensuring the comments section remains civil. Agree that the SciSchow community is pretty awesome.

[@roxyspamcake]

All my love and respect to the trans people browsing the comments today, especially those who want but can't have HRT for health or safety reasons. I want to make a world you can be at home in. 🏳️‍🌈 🏳️‍⚧️

[@shmoo42]

❤

[@charleston1789]

Appreciate it 🤍

[@ChrispyNut]

Or because they live where they're excluded from such treatment.

[@joet3935]

Don't forget the transpeople who can't get care because of governments. My son can't legally get top surgery, but he can get breast implants. The irony....

[@GamerGirlLily0702]

Thank you so much. My fiancee (another Trans Female) and I live in rural Northern California. We face a LOT of staring, catcalling and crude name calling/people wishing us harm. Interestingly enough, people don't tend to do anything as much if the two of us are going somewhere together as opposed to going somewhere alone.

[@elric_310]

Ignorance creates fear, and fear creates hate. It's never too late to learn and accept the differences. Everyone is fighting a battle you don't know about. Be kind, always.

[@golwenlothlindel]

Ignorance doesn't need to create fear. When I first met a trans person I'd never heard of it and knew nothing about it but I didn't think it was scary. Of course, I also wasn't a cishet white man with romantic insecurities nor was I in a weird cult. It was just an interesting fact about my neighbor.

[@rhael42]

Ignorance simply prevents hate from knowing where to be directed. Awareness has just made it easier for bigots to target us.

[@NyxHarmonia6976]

Based.

[@benjaminluke9903]

Great video overall! I'm curious to know why you omitted mentioning SERMs though. You mentioned that nonbinary people may want some but not all of the changes of HRT, but stated "You can't use hormones to pick out masc or fem features", giving the example that "Estrogen inevitably comes with some breast growth". I'm a transfem nonbinary person, and I'm using estrogen HRT, but taking raloxifene (a SERM) to enhance the feminising effects of the estrogen whilst specifically BLOCKING breast growth. I think the option to use SERMs is something more people, especially nonbinary people, should be aware of. 🙂

[@GremlinModeLLC]

HECK YEAH LEARNING AND BROADENING MY UNDERSTANDING OF THINGS I WANT TO SUPPORT OTHERS THROUGH BUT WILL NEVER TRULY UNDERSTAND MYSELF!

[@maxravenwood3877]

I just passed my '2 years on testosterone' milestone, and even with all that HRT and gender-affirming surgery has done for me, I'm glad they mentioned that nobody has to go through any medical process to transition. It can feel scary being presented with these decisions, so it's so important to take the time to understand what we really need.

[@SamHunley]

HECK YES!! Y'all are awesome. This enby is super proud to be a supporter of the show. Thank you for putting solid, medically sound science out into the world, and thank you for making it empathetic and kind.

[@Scheater5]

Seconded from another enby!

[@Kayari]

So first off shout out to whoever is sorting through the muck, modding the comments 💜 And second, i've been on t for a little over 3 months now and the only thing i've been regretting is not doing it sooner.

[@LillieMakesVideos]

i imagine a lot of youtube filters are in play but still i’m glad a non trans focused channel filters out transphobia for once

[@talisu3822]

Thanks!

[@kts8900]

What a warm and accesible presentation. I'm passing this on to a dude in my art class who asked for resources.

[@albedougnut]

I had really severe depression prior to HRT, but my mental health has improved so drastically since taking it. I still occasionally have seasonal flareups around spring and summer, but those are very minor in comparison to what I dealt with before.

[@thisolddown]

HRT fixes lifelong anxiety and depression before any physical changes start. Having the correct regulator in the brain is amazingly helpful. Many trans people go from non productive anxious and depressed zombies, to productive members of society after only a few weeks.

[@EmmaHopman]

For me it wasn't just so much direct effects of being on HRT, but just the hope that it gave me. I had a future I cared about for the first time.

[@wilhelm.i]

I definitely had the psychological changes almost immediately. It was night and day like .... Four days after my first shot. And I could pretty routinely tell I was late on my shot by how I feel.

[@tviruslove]

Having estrogen in my system made me miserable. Hormonal birth control would make me actively suicidal. So much of my depression and pain went away when I started testosterone, it was amazing.

[@no-be3zv]

(not trying to be snarky just asking btw, I'm trans myself) are there any good studies you (or anyone else for that matter) can link me to talking about this specifically? like is the positive change more chemical and physiological or is it more of a placebo? I've been hearing accounts all over the place on the internet about people experiencing something really similar to what's happening with me right now and hrt seems to just magically cure it for them and it's kind of hard for me to wrap my head around. like I can't help but wonder if some of them are biased.

[@Ancusohm]

I've been on gender affirming HRT for about a year now (11 months and 9 days, but who's counting?). I can't say that every change has been 100% positive with no drawbacks or tradeoffs. But I feel alive in a way I never did before.

[@sharonminsuk]

Thank you for this excellent and important - and unfortunately in the present climate we have to also say "brave" - video. Also props to host Savannah Geary for being so forthright about your own identity! A minor point: you stated spironolactone is the "most widely used" androgen agonist. I'm pretty sure that's only the case in the U.S., because alternatives aren't FDA approved, and/or aren't covered by insurance. In Europe they are considered safe and effective and are widely available. I was taking spironolactone when I moved to Europe for two years, and my doctor there switched me to one you didn't mention, Androcur (cyproterone acetate), saying "I can't believe they give spironolactone to trans women in the U.S. That stuff is awful for you!" When I moved back to the U.S. two years later, I could no longer get get Androcur and had to go back on spironolactone. This was almost 20 years ago so it's possible things have changed since then - for better or for worse. (Note, androgen agonists aren't needed at all, after removal of testes.)

[@Jainanz]

And as someone who used to be a "great ally" prior to coming out, on the less than small chance the person moderating or someone working on this is trans - we see you, and we love you, and you don't have to navigate this stuff alone. You have community and you have support. And that goes for everyone watching in the comments too. You can't give love or improve the world if you don't love and care for yourself first. Dont burn yourself out giving, make sure you take what you need and deserve too ❤ its not selfish, its selfless to care for yourself first so you can give what you can to others if you want

[@ShazySoft]

I figured out I was trans when I was 14, but never had the option of puberty blockers. Instead, I had to go through the Kafkaesque body horror of experiencing the wrong puberty for years. Instead of proactively treating my gender dysphoria, i had to suffer the most painful years of my life watching my body shift into the exact wrong form, then trying to do everything i could to reverse as much of that as possible. It's not as simple as "just wait until you're 18," because the more you go through the wrong puberty, the less effective it becomes. Puberty blockers under supervision of a medical team needs to be an option for trans kids; I sure as hell wish it was for me.

[@Linar-qf1fd]

You described it so well. I was luckily able to go on Blockers at 14 years old, but at times it looked a lot like i wouldnt be able to do that because of my father and just the thought of this continuing for many years to come was the worst thing i have ever experienced. I am unbelievably proud of you for making it through that and wish you the best life possible. It feels really strange saying this to a stranger but i truly mean it

[@bourbonbobo]

It would have been nice to have a mention of estrogen monotherapy but i understand there is likely not enough hard science on the matter yet. Anecdotally I know a lot of women find it equally as successful as using blockers in the long run. Considering the potential health impacts of taking a blocker I hope more research into this approach shows results in the next decade as having to use fewer substances for the same effects seems like it should be the preferred approach when possible.

[@Beryllahawk]

Looking forward to the day when gender affirming care is so normal people look at this video and go "why'd they need to explain it like this?" Hugs to everyone who is on the path to finding their true selves

[@NickGorton]

I was ready to be disappointed (as a physician who has been treating trans people for almost 2 decades)... But this was actually a really good summary. That said one important thing for NB AFAB people to know about is that taking T with a medication like finasteride (Propecia used for hair loss) can also decrease some of the secondary hair growth and *theoretically* clitoromegaly. It's different person to person, but there is the option to start both meds simultaneously. I use it especially in AFAB NB people who want voice deepening but are really worried about the butt hair.

[@thefrenchselkie1401]

wishing there was a way to opt out of butt hair lmao

[@tjarsun]

6 years in HRT so far, it's great! I'm from Argentina and there's no gatekeeping whatsoever here (literally can buy my hormones in any pharmacy, no prescription required) but getting them covered by insurance is a PITA. I get regular checkups to see if my dose needs adjusting (I'm on Spiro and estrogen)

[@aeroscorpian]

As a nurse, I appreciate this information to educate the general public.... And as an ally, I appreciate a video to point friends/family to. Thanks Savannah and SciShow team!

[@rougnashi]

Thank you for covering this topic respectfully. 🙂👍

[@SnakeladyGreta]

55 year-old enby here! Didn’t realize who I was had a name. I always just thought I sucked at being a girl. 😁 I was considering microdosing testosterone, however I’m in menopause and my T levels are higher than my E levels. So, I’m waiting to see what happens naturally.

[@kj_H65f]

I love seeing people unlock knowledge of a part of themselves 😊 ❤

[@vagabondsentinel]

38 yo enby, same hat until a few years ago. It's been such a relief just having a word to describe the experience.

[@kimcoleeppling8177]

Consider talking to a doctor about the specific reasons you were thinking about T. I don’t know what you wanted out of microdosing but it’s likely that you would need to actually take some nonzero quantity of testosterone to get it. I personally know multiple nonbinary people who take less testosterone than would be recommended for a trans man and are very happy with the results.

[@Scheater5]

Congrats on figuring stuff out and good luck on your journey! I'm 36 and just figured it out a few years ago. I'm basically on full feminizing doses of HRT to balance out that my body is already pretty masculine - might back down a bit eventually but right now I'm loving it! We get to decide what it means to be in our bodies!

[@ZijnShayatanica]

Good for you!!!! If you do choose to start T, I hope it helps you feel better. At the very least, you'll retain that all important bone density as you age. Take care! 💕

[@angelicicarus8578]

Thank you for using your trusted and sizeable platform to battle correct ignorance and battle misinformation! Youre giving a voice to millions of innocent people in need.

[@GamesForDays2]

Thanks

[@AurenStormriver]

As a nonbinary trans person who has a special interest in education, THANK YOU for this video! I'll be adding it to my list of quick links to throw at people with questions. :)

[@SkyenNovaA]

Thank you for this. Yeah, HRT made me feel like life was worth living again. After a few months, it already made me feel so much more comfortable in my own body. I think even if people are against trans people being referred to as whatever or using certain spaces, at the very least they should understand that this treatment is very important for our mental health. People who refuse to understand that just want us to suffer, and shouldn't be listened to anyway.

[@estivalbloom]

Thank you so much for making this video ❤ It makes me happy in general to see you guys giving this topic visibility, and honestly this answered some questions I had myself as a non-binary person who has mixed feelings about the idea of HRT.

[@fatfurry]

among us

[@raedev]

One thing about HRT that seems to not be understood is that it doesn't force the human body to change. It's not "artificially making things that aren't there". Every single human body (save for certain medical conditions) knows how to follow both sets of instructions, they are encoded in all of us, it just so happens that during conception there was a coin flip and the reaction was kickstarted one way or the other. All HRT does is slow that predetermined set of instructions down and provide the materials for the other set of instructions, and the body happily obliges, completely naturally. Which is also why stopping HRT goes back to the original set of instructions. And hormone blockers are essentially the "slow down" part without giving the body different new materials. HRT doesn't change the body, it just shifts around a couple percentages of hormones and the body then changes itself in the exact same way any human body with that percentage of hormones would. That is to say, trans breasts grown from estrogen therapy are the same as cis female breasts, down to in some cases the ability to lactate. Trans body/facial hair grown from testosterone therapy is the same as cis male body/facial hair, down to... well, you said it, butt hair lol The human body is a fascinating machine.

[@ginnyjollykidd]

I have always been a defender of Trans people and a PFLAG. But I didn't know enough about procedures and treatments regarding it. Now that I know, more than ever I support gender-affirming care and the opportunity to choose. For anyone and everyone.

[@Meganos999]

Thank you!

[@OrdinaryOneOfficial]

You're good people.

[@mauro.garcia]

A friendly question just out of curiosity, where does the trans being 3% of the world population estimation comes from?

[@Jessepigman69]

Yeah I would like to see if there is an actual answer

[@taproot0619]

3% is a rather high estimate TBH. It's really hard to get a firm number for us. I've personally seen reports saying we make up as little as .5% and as much as 2%. I don't know where they got the 3% figure specifically. And pinpointing the number is ridiculously hard currently.

[@AaronGeo]

Yeah. That's like 240,000,000 PEOPLE, or around the population of Indonesia.

[@AntonyMBenedict]

That seems awful lot. I only know 1 transgender person in my life.

[@Mimirai]

For example from this study review. PMID 27045261 www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4823815/