To get HRT through Planned Parenthood, the first step is typically to schedule an appointment with a Planned Parenthood health center that provides hormone therapy services. During your first appointment, the provider will:
- Take your medical history and ask about your gender identity
- Discuss your goals and expectations for hormone therapy
- Review the effects and risks of hormone therapy
- Order lab tests (if needed) to check hormone levels and overall health
- Provide education on safe hormone therapy practices
If you are found to be a good candidate for HRT, the provider can write a
prescription for hormones like
estrogen or
testosterone. The prescription can be filled at an outside pharmacy or through Planned Parenthood's in-house pharmacy (where available).
The informed consent model used by Planned Parenthood
removes barriers that have prevented transgender people from accessing hormone therapy in the past. There is no need for:
- Letters from therapists/mental health professionals
- Minimum period of psychological evaluation
- Documentation related to gender transition
Follow-up appointments are crucial to:
- Monitor hormone levels with blood tests
- Discuss physical changes and adjust dosages as needed
- Check for potential side effects
- Provide ongoing education and support
The cost of HRT through Planned Parenthood varies based on your insurance coverage and income level. However, they work with patients to make services affordable through insurance billing, financial assistance programs, etc.
Overall, Planned Parenthood aims to make HRT accessible in a
safe, judgment-free environment for transgender and non-binary people. Their informed consent model empowers patients to make decisions about their care.
