You may have heard of Trans people utilizing Hormone Replacement Therapy or HRT. Hormone Replacement Therapy involves taking hormones and supplementary medications to affect hormone levels in a human body, impacting what are commonly referred to as secondary sex characteristics such as hair growth, amount of chest tissue, muscle mass, and sexual arousal. Not all Trans people want to utilize HRT, and for some Trans people HRT is a great fit. HRT may address some areas of dysphoria, but leave others unadressed. Working with a counselor and medical doctor is the surest way to help you make the decision that's right for you. Below, we've shared some resources that are imperfect, but could be helpful in deciding if HRT is right for you. 

Basic Information About HRT

Feminizing Hormone Therapy at Seattle Children’s

Masculinizing Hormone Therapy at Seattle Children’s

Starting Hormone Replacement Therapy

The main barrier for Trans people seeking HRT is funding the process. Starting HRT requires an initial appointment with a doctor who is willing to prescribe, blood labs to check hormone levels, and pavement for prescriptions. Some doctors also require a letter from a counselor in support of starting HRT. Pride Alliance staff are excited to help students make a plan to start HRT, and can help you with the following important steps:

• Empowering you to decide if HRT is right for you
• Calling your insurance to see if they cover HRT
• Liaising with Counseling and Testing Services
• Budgeting and planning for HRT expenses

Email us and set up an appointment today! 

Finding a Doctor or Clinic

Trans services offered at the Nelson-Tebedo Clinic is a great option offered by the Dallas Resource Center as part of their Transgender Services. While there is a waitlist to begin treatment, services are lower-cost. This clinic requires a letter from a counselor in support of HRT to seek treatment.

Planned Parenthood Denton offers HRT on an informed-consent basis, which means they do not require a letter from a therapist to begin treatment. Prices for their services vary, but you can make an appointment with Pride Alliance staff, and we'll help you figure it out. 

Trans Affirming Surgeries

Not all Trans people want gender affirming surgeries. For Trans people that do have interest in having gender affirming surgery, there is no "right way" to pursue surgery. Learn more about gender affirming surgeries with Dr. Lindsey Doe. 

Gender Affirming Surgeries With Dr. Lindsey Doe

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Meadows Center do HRT? 

The Meadows Center does not currently employ any doctors who will start HRT plans with patients. Doctors may be willing to help a patient continue an HRT plan. Staff are also happy to help folks with injections of HRT if they are prescribed by another doctor. Visit the Meadows Center's Transgender Health page to learn more. 

Does UNT Student Insurance cover HRT?

UNT Student Health Insurance is updated annually, so the answer to this question changes every year. For the most current information check out the Meadows Center's Transgender Health page.

Does the Counseling and Testing Center write HRT Letters?

There are some counselors who have written letters in support of HRT after establishing a therapeutic relationship with a client and assessing whether HRT is both feasible and a fit for you. 

Do I have to do HRT?  

No! Many Trans people are happy without doing HRT, and many Trans people also want it. The only correct answer is to decide what is best for you. 

What if I try HRT and I don't like the effect it has on me?  

While you should discuss the medical impacts of starting and stopping HRT with your doctor, many Trans people have stopped taking HRT and live happy full lives. 

Have a question you don't see here? Email us with it!