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  3. Estrogen Blockers FTM: How It Works, Benefits, Results

Estrogen Blockers FTM: How It Works, Benefits, Results

Address erectile dysfunction post-heart bypass surgery with specialized care. Understand potential causes, explore treatment options, and seek support for improved sexual health and overall well-being.

  • Transgender Surgery
By Shubhanshi Jain 19th Apr '23 29th Mar '24
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Overview

What are Estrogen Blockers?- Estrogen blockers are medicines that are taken to reduce amount of estrogen in one's body. These can be taken by transgender men or other men who wish to gain more masculine appearance. There are other usage as well which you will get to know in the blog.

Have you ever wondered why some people seem to have a much easier time building muscle and losing fat?

Estrogen blockers could be the secret weapon they're using to get ahead.

estrogen

The most used estrogen blockers FTM individuals are aromatase inhibitors (AI). Another is selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs). Aromatase inhibitors work by blocking the conversion of testosterone into estrogen. While SERMs work by binding to estrogen receptors and preventing estrogen from binding to them.

Common aromatase inhibitors used for FTM HRT include Anastrozole (Arimidex) and Letrozole (Femara). Common SERMs include Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) and Raloxifene (Evista).

It is important to note that the use of hormone blockers FTM should be done under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. As improper use can have negative health consequences.

Studies have shown that the use of AI in FTM HRT can lead to a significant decrease in estrogen levels and an increase in testosterone levels.

How does estrogen blockers FTM work?

If you're looking for a way to optimise your hormonal balance, you might want to check out this new breakthrough in supplements.

Estrogen blockers are used in hormone replacement therapy (HRT). It is for transgender men (FTM). They work by suppressing the effects of estrogen. They also promote the development of male secondary sexual characteristics.

testosterone

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone. It handles promoting the development of male secondary sexual characteristics such as increased muscle mass, facial hair growth, and a deeper voice. In FTM HRT, testosterone is inserted in the form of injections, gels, or patches to increase testosterone levels in the body.

Yet, the body naturally produces some estrogen even in individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB). So, estrogen blockers are there to suppress the effects of estrogen that may interfere with the development of male secondary sexual characteristics by reducing the amount of estrogen in the body. Estrogen blockers can help to promote the development of male physical characteristics and masculinization.

Uses of estrogen blockers FTM

Want to know more about Estrogen blockers ftm 

Here you can get to know the uses!!!

muscle

Estrogen blockers are  used in hormone replacement therapy (HRT). It is for transgender men (FTM) to suppress the effects of estrogen. Also to promote the development of male secondary sexual characteristics. 

Here are some of the specific uses of estrogen blockers for FTM individuals:

Promote masculinization:

By reducing the amount of estrogen in the body Estrogen blockers can help to promote the development of male physical characteristics. Such as increased muscle mass, facial hair growth, and a deeper voice.


 

Balance hormone levels:

 Estrogen blockers can help to balance hormone levels in the body by reducing the amount of estrogen and increasing the amount of testosterone. This can help to reduce the risk of negative health consequences with imbalanced hormone levels.


 

Improve mood and well-being: 

Hormone imbalances can cause mood swings, anxiety, and depression. By helping to balance hormone levels, estrogen blockers can improve mood and well-being.


 

Reduce the risk of certain health conditions:

High estrogen levels in the body can increase the risk of certain health conditions. Such as breast cancer and osteoporosis. Estrogen blockers can help to reduce the risk of these conditions by reducing the amount of estrogen in the body.


 

Take charge of your health and your life. Contact us today!

Types of estrogen blockers FTM

transgender

There are two main types of estrogen blockers that are used in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for transgender men (FTM):

  • aromatase inhibitors (AI)
  • selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs).

·    Aromatase inhibitors:

Aromatase inhibitors work by blocking the enzyme aromatase which cares for converting testosterone into estrogen. By blocking aromatase, it can reduce the amount of estrogen in the body. Also, it promotes the development of male secondary sexual characteristics. Examples of aromatase inhibitors used in FTM HRT include-

  • anastrozole (Arimidex)
  • etrozole (Femara).

·    Selective estrogen receptor modulators: Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) work by binding to estrogen receptors in the body. And preventing estrogen from binding to them. This can reduce the effects of estrogen in the body and promote the development of male secondary sexual characteristics. Examples of SERMs used in FTM HRT include tamoxifen (Nolvadex) and raloxifene (Evista).

The specific type of estrogen blocker use may vary depending on individual circumstances and medical history.

Methods of estrogen blockers FTM

So how to take them? There are various ways..

For transsexual males (FTM), estrogen blockers may be given orally, intravenously, or topically using topical gels or creams, among other ways. Depending on a person's unique situation and medical history, a certain administration technique may be used.

Oral medications:

oral medications

 Includes Aromatase inhibitors and selective estrogen receptor modulators. It can be taken orally as tablets or capsules. These medications are taken once a day, with or without food. And are prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Can’t remember daily doses? 

Are there any alternate ways?--YES

Injections:

injections

 Some estrogen blockers, such as triptorelin (Trelstar), are administered through injections. This medication is injected into a muscle every one to three months. Also can be prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Topical gels or creams:

gels and creams

Estrogen blockers can also be applied as a gel or cream. This method of administration is less common. But can be prescribed by a healthcare provider.

It's important to note that the use of estrogen blockers should be under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider to ensure proper dosage and safety. Regular monitoring of hormone levels and potential side effects is also important to ensure the effectiveness and safety of the treatment.

Benefits and Risks of estrogen blockers FTM

Before you start taking estrogen blockers, it's important to have a clear understanding of the benefits and potential risks involved. Here's what the research says.

benefits/risks

Benefits of estrogen blockers for transgender men (FTM)Risks with the use of estrogen blockers

·    Promotion of male secondary sexual characteristics. Such as increased body hair growth, deepening of the voice, and growth of facial hair.


 

·        Negative impact on bone health. Which can increase the risk of fractures or osteoporosis.


 

·    Reduction of breast tissue and size.


 

·        Decrease in sex drive or libido.

·        Changes in mood or mental health, such as depression or anxiety

·    Decrease in the risk of estrogen-related health conditions. Such as breast cancer, osteoporosis, and blood clots.


 

·        Increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks or strokes.


 

results

It's important to note that the risks and benefits of estrogen blockers may vary. It depends on individual circumstances and medical history. The use of estrogen blockers should always be done under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider to ensure proper dosage and safety. Regular monitoring of hormone levels and potential side effects is also important to ensure the effectiveness and safety of the treatment.

 

Eligibility Criteria

eligibility

Are you a good fit to take these blockers?

In what cases you can take them? Here you can get more about it.

Estrogen blockers are used by individuals who are undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for gender transition from female to male. The eligibility criteria for taking estrogen blockers as part of HRT may vary. It depends on the medical history of the individual. 

But the following factors are considered:

  • Age: Individuals must be at least 16 years old to start hormone therapy for gender transition. Some healthcare may recommend waiting until the age of 18 to start hormone therapy.
  • Hormone levels: A healthcare professional must check your hormone levels to decide whether estrogen blockers are necessary. Estrogen blockers can help in lowering estrogen levels in those going through the transition from female to male who often have higher levels of the hormone in their bodies.
  • Medical history: Some medical conditions- like liver disease or breast cancer, can make it unsafe for some individuals to take estrogen blockers or hormone therapy. So, if you have any of these medical conditions, it is important to talk to a doctor to see if taking estrogen blockers is safe for you
  • Mental health: Individuals must be in good mental health. Also able to provide informed consent before starting hormone therapy.
  • General well-being: Before beginning hormone therapy, patients must be in good physical condition. And have their general well-being assessed by a healthcare professional.

It is significant to remember that eligibility requirements for estrogen blockers and hormone therapy may change depending on the particular healthcare provider. It is advised that people seek advice on whether estrogen blockers are suitable for them from a healthcare professional who has experience providing gender-affirming therapy.

How to prepare for estrogen blockers FTM? 

Here are some things you may do to get ready if you intend to start taking estrogen blockers as part of hormone replacement treatment (HRT) for gender transition from female to male:
 

How to prepare?Details

Consult with a healthcare provider

Before starting estrogen blockers. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider who is experienced in providing gender-affirming care. They can check your medical history, conduct necessary tests, and provide guidance on the best course of action.


 

Discuss your goals and expectations

Your healthcare provider will want to know your goals and expectations for hormone therapy. They can help you understand what to expect and provide guidance on how to manage any side effects.


 

Undergo necessary tests: 

Before starting estrogen blockers, your healthcare provider may want to conduct some tests to check your whole health. Other things checked as hormone levels, and any underlying medical conditions. This may include blood tests, imaging tests, and a physical exam.


 

Follow pre-op guidelines: 

Depending on your healthcare provider's recommendations you may need to follow certain pre-op guidelines before starting estrogen blockers. This could include refraining from smoking, adjusting your diet or exercise routine, or taking other medications.


 

Attend regular check-ups:

Once you start taking estrogen blockers, it's important to attend regular check-ups. Meet your healthcare provider to watch your hormone levels and whole health. They can make any necessary adjustments to your dosage or treatment plan as needed.


 

Keep in mind that your unique situation and your healthcare practitioner may affect. Always adhere to the advice of your healthcare professional, and contact them if you have any questions or concerns.

Take the first step to recovery. Get in touch with us for your treatment.

Procedure

 medicines

Procedure: Taking estrogen blockers does not involve surgery. It involves taking medication oral or by injection to block the effects of estrogen on the body.

Duration of treatment: The duration of treatment will depend on individual needs. Your doctor will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is suitable to your needs.

Pain experienced: Pain is not usually experienced when taking estrogen blockers. Some individuals may experience mild side effects. Such as headaches, hot flashes, or mood changes.

Hospital stay: When beginning estrogen blockers, a hospital stay is not necessary. The medicine can be given in an outpatient setting. And the majority of people can carry on with their normal activities uninterrupted.

Regular check-ups: Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider to track hormone levels and overall health is required. The frequency of these check-ups will depend on the individual's treatment plan. Also depends on the healthcare provider's recommendations.

What to expect after estrogen blockers FTM?

Sure about taking estrogen blockers, then must read about what to expect after estrogen blockers.

There is no surgery involved in taking estrogen blockers for FTM transition. So there is no specific recovery period or post-op guidelines. 

But here are some things you can expect after starting estrogen blockers:

risk

Side effects: While taking estrogen blockers, some individuals may experience side effects. Such as headaches, feverish, or mood changes. These side effects are usually mild and with medication or other interventions it can be cured.

Hormonal changes: Estrogen blockers work by blocking the effects of estrogen on the body. As a result, the body will experience hormonal changes that can affect mood, energy levels, and other aspects of health. It may take time for the body to adjust to these changes.

Regular check-ups: It's important to attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider. To watch your hormone levels and overall health. They can make any necessary adjustments to your dosage or treatment plan as needed.

Possible next steps: Depending on your treatment goals, you may start taking testosterone as part of hormone replacement therapy.

It's important to note that the specific effects of estrogen blockers may vary depending on individual circumstances and healthcare provider's recommendations. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions. And consult with them if you have any questions or concerns.

Results

How much will it take you to be more masculine. 

What time results will be shown?

results

The results of taking estrogen blockers as part of hormone therapy for FTM transition can vary depending on individual circumstances and treatment goals.

Here are some general points to keep in mind:

What improvements are seen? 

Increased muscle mass, redistribution of body fat to a more masculine pattern, increased facial and body hair growth, and a deeper voice. Also, a decrease in menstrual cycles and a reduction in other menstrual-related symptoms is noticed. Improved mental health and confidence are also observed.

When are results visible?

The timeline for visible results will vary depending on individual circumstances and treatment goals. Some changes, such as a decrease in breast size or a reduction in menstrual cycle symptoms, may be noticeable within weeks or months of starting estrogen blockers. Other changes, such as changes in body hair growth or voice deepening, may take longer to become noticeable.

Are the results permanent?

Estrogen blockers work by blocking the effects of estrogen on the body. But they do not cause permanent changes on their own. Once estrogen blockers are discontinued, the body will start producing estrogen again. And some of the changes that occurred during treatment may reverse over time.

How long do the results last?

The duration of the results will vary depending on individual circumstances and treatment goals. Some changes, such as a decrease in breast size or a reduction in menstrual cycle symptoms, may be maintained as long as estrogen blockers are continued. Other changes, such as changes in body hair growth or voice deepening, may be maintained even after estrogen blockers are discontinued. But may not be as pronounced as they were during treatment.

It's important to note that the results and duration of effects of taking estrogen blockers may vary depending on the individual. Always follow your doctor's instructions and consult with them if you have any questions or concerns.

Success Rate

high success rates of estrogen blockers

These estrogen blockers are effective in most of the cases.

Yes, you read that right!

The success rates of taking hormone blockers for FTM transition vary from person to person. Success depends on individual factors like age, overall health, hormone levels, and genetics. Some people may see changes like a decrease in breast size, less painful menstrual cycles and also changes in body hair growth and voice deepening. It's important to have regular check-ups with your doctor to watch your progress and make any needed adjustments to your treatment plan.

 Sometimes extra treatments, like testosterone therapy or surgery, may be necessary to achieve desired results. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions and ask them any questions or concerns you have.

Other treatments used along with estrogen blockers FTM

For FTM transgender people, testosterone is the main hormone used to promote masculinization.

Estrogen blockers are sometimes used along with testosterone to prevent the conversion of testosterone to estrogen and to reduce the risk of feminization.

Other treatments that may used along with estrogen blockers and testosterone include:

progesterone

Progesterone: Progesterone is a hormone that can help to further masculinize the body by promoting muscle growth, deepening the voice, and increasing body hair growth.

DHEA: DHEA is a hormone that is naturally produced by the body and can also be taken as a supplement. It has been shown to promote muscle growth and increase energy levels.

Human Growth Hormone (HGH): HGH is a hormone that is naturally produced by the body and can also be taken as a supplement. It can help to increase muscle mass, reduce body fat, and improve energy levels.

Thyroid hormone: Thyroid hormone can help to regulate metabolism and promote weight loss which can be beneficial for individuals who are undergoing hormone therapy.

Cost of Estrogen Blockers

cost

Is it under your budget? Here you can know about the cost and other facilities..

The cost of estrogen blockers for FTM (female-to-male) transition. It can vary depending on the type of medication prescribed and where you live. Generally, estrogen blockers can cost from $20 to $200 per month without insurance.

Some insurance plans may cover the cost of medication related to gender transition, while others may not. It's best to contact your insurance provider if you are having trouble affording the cost of estrogen blockers. There are some resources available that may be able to help. For instance, several pharmaceutical companies offer patient help programmes that give eligible people access to medication at a discounted price or for free. Your doctor or pharmacist may be able to provide you with more information on these programs. Moreover, some community organisations and advocacy groups may offer financial help. Also other resources for individuals undergoing gender transition.

Have some more questions related to estrogen blockers ftm?  

Then do not miss reading the below FAQs.

You might get an answer to your question!

FAQs

faqs

     What are the 3 estrogen blockers?

Medicines that stop the body from making estrogen

  • Anastrozole (Arimidex).
  • Exemestane (Aromasin).
  • Letrozole (Femara).

Do estrogen blockers increase testosterone?

Yes, but only a few estrogen blockers can increase testosterone levels in males by limiting the amount of estrogen present or active in the body.


    What are estrogen blockers?

Estrogen blockers are medications that inhibit the action of estrogen in the body.

   What are estrogen blockers used for?

Estrogen blockers are used to treat conditions such as breast cancer, endometriosis, and infertility. They may also be used in the context of gender transition for FTM individuals.

   What are the side effects of estrogen blockers?

Side effects of estrogen blockers can include hot flashes, fatigue, mood changes, and decreased sex drive.

Want to inquire about personalized treatment expenses? Don't hesitate. Talk to us today.


 Reference- https://www.healthline.com/

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Question and Answers

if I have top surgery without T can I develop pecs if I hit the gym a lot?

Male | 18

If you don't take testosterone or undergo top surgery, you can still build your pecs by lifting weights. Pecs, short for pectoral muscles, can grow with exercises like chest presses and push-ups, which target these muscles. Pace yourself, use the correct form, and be consistent with your workouts. Your pecs can still develop even without testosterone.

Answered on 29th July '24

Dr. Vinod Vij

Dr. Vinod Vij

I am a 32 years old male who has got into cross dressing some 8 years back, now my urge of being like this has grown, last two years I have been I’m eating dian35 prescribed by a doctor in Malaysia, but now I believe I shall be needing more strong dose since the transformation is already 2 years and can see few changes

Other | 32

It seems like you may be going through some changes about turning into the opposite sex. Understand that these changes are complicated and might need some medical interventions. You might require different amounts of hormones to help you through the process. Talk about what is bothering you and your symptoms with a doctor who can help you figure out the best way forward.

Answered on 18th July '24

Dr. Vinod Vij

Dr. Vinod Vij

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