Testosterone Side Effects in the Treatment of FTM Transsexuals
Female to male transsexuals may experience side effects from testosterone treatment. Although life-threatening complications are rare, it is important to be familiar with the possible testosterone side effects
Overview of Testosterone Side Effects
Mild Side Effects from FTM Testosterone HRT
Sweating, Headings, increased red blood cell count, increased sex drive, male pattern baldness, edema, increased body odor, increased hair growth, thinning of the hairline, soreness or a knot at the injection site if administered by intramuscular injection, acne, and mood changes. This list is not exclusive. Speak with your healthcare provider if you experience any mild symptoms from testosterone hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
Moderate Side Effects from FTM Testosterone HRT
Mood swings, anxiety, agitation, menopausal symptoms (such as hot flashes), red flushing of the cheeks or skin, allergic reaction, cystic acne, nausea, increased LDL cholesterol levels, decreased HDL cholesterol levels, increased red blood cell count, increased hemacrit and hemoglobin levels, and elevated blood pressure. This list is not exclusive. Speak with your healthcare provider if you experience any mild symptoms from testosterone hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
Severe Side Effects from FTM Testosterone HRT
Suicidal tendencies, violence, panic attacks, rage, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), severe allergic reaction (anaphalxis, difficulty breathing), nausea, vomiting, liver failure, cancer, kidney or urinary problems, infection of the injection site, stroke, or heart attack. This list is not exclusive and other severe reactions to testosterone HRT may occur. If you experience any severe side effects or suspected severe side effects from testosterone hormone replacement therapy, call your doctor or seek emergency medical treatment immediately.
Physical Effects of Testosterone on Females
Administration of testosterone into a female or intersex individual will result in masculinization of their physical appearance. The following changes may occur:
- Deepening of the voice and lengthening of the vocal chords
- Increase in body and facial hair
- Increase in libido with enlargement of the clitoris
- Change in body structure from rearrangement of fat cells
- Acne, and skin oiliness often increase--rougher skin not uncommon
- Male pattern baldness--will not regenerate if testosterone therapy stops
- Loss of baby fat in the face - more angular/masculine appearance
- Cessation of menstruation
- Increased appetite and energy
* The information contained herein is not a replacement for medical advice and should not be used for medical treatment or hormone replacement therapy without the supervision of a licensed physician. femaletomale.org seeks to provide relevant information about gender reassignment, but under no circumstances should the information provided challenge or take the place of the authority of a medical professional. Disclaimer