Low-Dose Estrogen: Three Month Update

[Astrid]

I wanted to give a three-month update on my low-dose estradiol regimen.  I'm non-binary and seeking dysphoria relief, not significant physical changes.  

 

1. My doctor has been helpful in allowing me to adjust the size of the patches I apply (meaning, use scissors to cut a given patch in half, or thirds, etc.), as I seek to find a level where I'm getting benefit, but not seeing significant breast growth.  As she stated, she's not too worried about this approach, given that these are low dosage levels.

2. It's likely going to take a while to find this dosage "sweet spot", and I'm comfortable with a bit more breast growth than I've already experienced (due to the dosage being

a bit high) if I can subsequently find a lower dose where there's no further growth.  But I don't want to be lower than need be, either, as the effects of estradiol on my mental well-being are very, very real!

3. And that's really the question I'm seeking: is there any dosage level at which my breasts won't (even slowly) grow?  My doctor has noted that I'm one of those persons who's very sensitive to estradiol, such that a dose that's considered low and a starting dosage for most MtF patients is five times higher than what I'm doing now.  So, my fingers are crossed that I'll succeed in finding a level that can work for me.

4. I'm looking forward to warmer weather, as there will be a new wardrobe approach than in prior years.  No tight-fitting tee-shirts anymore <smile>.  

 

All in all, I'm feeling great about HRT, how it's benefitted my psyche, and also feeling good about the future.  Onward.

 

Astrid

 

 

[tracy_j]

5 hours ago, Astrid said:

3. And that's really the question I'm seeking: is there any dosage level at which my breasts won't (even slowly) grow?  My doctor has noted that I'm one of those persons who's very sensitive to estradiol, such that a dose that's considered low and a starting dosage for most MtF patients is five times higher than what I'm doing now.  So, my fingers are crossed that I'll succeed in finding a level that can work for me.

 

 

Just to point out that discussion of actual doseages is not allowed here, although I realise that that is not quite what you are asking..  It does appear though that your doctor seems to have answered your question. The reality is that all people are different, which is why doctors are needed to closely monitor levels. This is the sort of question your doctor would be better placed to answer because of that.

 

Tracy

[VickySGV]

Tracy has given you the only answer that we go for here on these forums.  I was on a dosage for years that many considered would be ineffective and my development did result in obvious breast growth.  I am going to lock this topic to avoid others trying to go too far beyond telling you to rely on your supervising physician.