Feminising hormone therapy reduces the amount of androgens (primary male sex hormones) in a person’s body while increasing levels of oestrogen. Over time this serves to alter a person’s body, making it more feminine.
With a procedure like this the outward physical changes are what’s predominantly talked about, but it is important to recognise that the treatment changes a great deal more - many people going through this treatment describe it as a second puberty and as such, it also has a big impact on their emotions and behaviour.
Physical Changes
- Breast Growth:
This can often start as a firm “bud” under your nipples, gradually enlarging and defining. It may cause tenderness, pain, and nipple itching. Some report heightened sensations in line with a monthly cycle. - Fat Redistribution:
Hips can get wider, the waist smaller, and reduced stomach size. Subtle changes occur in the face, hands, and feet, including potential foot shrinkage. - Hip Rotation:
Tendon changes in the legs lead to forward hip rotation, enhancing the buttocks and creating a more feminine waistline. Some notice an increased freedom of movement in the hips. - Hair Growth:
While substantial hair reduction is unlikely, feminizing HRT slows facial and body hair growth, possibly altering thickness and colour. - Skin Texture:
Skin becomes softer and less oily, especially on the face. Pores may appear smaller, and acne could diminish. - Genital Shrinkage:
Males may experience reduced genital size, making tucking easier. - Body Odour:
A person’s body odour will change dramatically. Feminine body odour tends to be a lot less “heavy” or “musky”. - Muscle Mass Decrease:
A reduction in muscle mass, especially in the arms, shoulders, and chest.
Changes In Sensation
- Sense Of Smell:
The sense of smell intensifies, influencing taste. - Sexual Intercourse:
Sexual pleasure may change significantly. Stimulation can be more intense and for males, less tied to ejaculation. New sources of pleasure such as perineal stimulation may emerge. - Sex Drive:
Sex drive varies, with some reporting a decrease, others an increase. Differences between masculine and feminine arousal may be more pronounced, and experiences of both can occur at different times.
Emotional Changes
A lot can change when a person starts feminising HRT, and emotional or behavioural changes are no small part of that. Feminine puberty can be an exciting and empowering experience, particularly when you’re feeling the freedom of being yourself for the first time.
It can also be a very emotional time. There may be days when a person is more excited than ever, and some when they feel the urge to hide in a public bathroom and cry. The differences between one person’s journey and any other are vast, so it’s important that they take this journey step-by-step at their own pace. For anyone who is struggling, remember that seeking help from a loved one, counsellor or therapist can really help to navigate life’s difficulties.
Reaching out for help is a sign of strength. You don’t have to have all of the answers, all the time.
What To Expect
- Increased Nurture Instinct:
Feelings toward cuteness intensify, fostering a stronger urge to care for and protect children and animals, along with a heightened sense of connection to others. - Temperament Shifts:
Emotional reactivity may increase or decrease. - Ease of Crying:
Shedding tears becomes a more natural and relieving expression, rather than a response to overwhelming emotions. - Craving for Cuddles:
Many experience an amplified desire for closeness and cuddling. - Increased Confidence:
Many individuals report a surge in self-confidence and a sense of empowerment.
Living life before treatment can be extremely distressing and as a result, suppressing feelings for protection is common. The significant jump in the intensity of their emotions may not always be directly associated with the treatment, but also as a result of being able to express their feelings freely.