Female to Male Changes
Females transitioning to males (FTM) may experience the following permanent effects of testosterone:
- Atrophy of the uterus and ovaries, resulting in sterility
- Baldness; hair loss, especially at temples and crown of head
- Beard and mustache growth
- Deepening of the voice
- Enlargement of the clitoris
- Increased growth of body hair
- Sterility
Temporary changes, which are reversible after HT is stopped, include the following:
- Behavioral developments associated with testosterone production during male puberty:
- Aggression
- Increased libido
- Development of acne, similar to male puberty
- Increased muscle mass and strength
- Increase in number of red blood cells
- Redistribution of fat from breasts, hips, and thighs to abdominal area
Risks associated with FTM testosterone therapy include the following:
- Breast cancer
- Cancer of endometrium
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Hypertension
- Liver disease
Tobacco increases a person's risk for disease and complications. A general medical checkup is necessary before treatment, as well as a review of patient and family health history.
Physician-developed and -monitored.
Original Date of Publication: 01 Aug 2001
Reviewed by: Stanley J. Swierzewski, III, M.D.
Last Reviewed: 04 Dec 2007
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