The chemistry of living authentically
- by Revan Health & Revan Rx
Gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) uses hormones and blockers to help a person’s physical traits match their gender identity. There are both feminizing and masculinizing therapies available with several delivery methods.
People have varying expectations for the outcomes they hope to achieve with GAHT. Outlined here are the experiences of experts in this type of care.
“People undergo gender-affirming hormone therapy to better align their outer appearance with their gender identity,” said Helene Hedian, director of clinical education at the Center for Transgender and Gender Expansive Health. “Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy can be a stand-alone intervention or coupled with surgical procedures.
“While there are risks associated with hormone therapy, there are also serious risks of untreated gender dysphoria such as depression and suicide. GAHT, when monitored by a doctor, is an intervention that can alleviate gender dysphoria,” Hedian said.
Many people want to know how fast GAHT will work for them.
“The timeline for physical changes from gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) varies significantly among individuals, with some effects beginning within weeks while maximal changes may take 2–5 years,” said Dr. Jason Revel, PharmD., Founder and Director of Pharmacy Services at Revan Health and Revan Rx. Revel works daily with people who choose GAHT to help them live authentically.
“Many patients report improved mood, reduced gender dysphoria, and enhanced well-being within weeks to months, often before substantial physical changes are visible,” Revel said.
Some changes are permanent, like voice deepening, while others are reversible if treatment stops.
A variety of medications are used with patients undergoing GAHT.
“Feminizing GAHT medications are medications such as estradiol topicals, tablets or injections,” explained Revel. “Spironolactone is used to inhibit testosterone production, and Bicalutamide/Finasteride is used to block effects of testosterone.”
Testosterone is a primary sex hormone that controls muscle mass, bone strength, and sexual traits in both men and women, though levels are much higher in males. Estrogen and testosterone-blocking agents (anti-androgens) are used to develop feminine secondary sex characteristics like breast growth and fat redistribution.
“Masculinizing GAHT medications are testosterone topicals, patches, or injections, and a drug called Anastrozole is used to decrease estradiol levels,” Revel said.
Testosterone is used to develop masculine traits, such as a deeper voice, facial hair, and increased muscle mass.
Revel said the guidelines for patients undergoing GAHT include getting blood work and seeing their doctor, with labs and follow-up appointments every 3–6 months.
Remember, there are risks when using GAHT.
“The primary risks of gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) vary by regimen—feminizing therapy (estradiol-based) carries predominantly thrombotic and cardiovascular risks, while masculinizing therapy (testosterone-based) poses risks of polycythemia, dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular events,” Revel explained.
Unfortunately, not all insurance covers GAHT.
“In the U.S., GAHT coverage is not universal,” said Revel. “Coverage varies by insurer, the specific plan, state, patient age, medication/formulation, and whether prior authorization or other medical-necessity criteria are met. Insurance barriers to hormone therapy remain fairly prominent.”
If you are looking for information on feminizing or masculinizing therapy, call Revan Health or Revan Rx at (405)
Revan accepts most insurance, offers Telehealth visits and can also serve as your primary healthcare provider. Call (888) 773-8267 or visit www.revanhealth.com. You can easily upload your information through the online patient portal on the website.
The Gayly online. 9/16/26 @ 3:34 p.m. CST.