#injectable 1-Testosterone cypionate

[fatmasc]

btw after 1 year on T it's become alarmingly aware to me that lots of ppl don't know u can have an allergic reaction to HRT injections. Testosterone cypionate is formulated with cottonseed oil and its not exactly uncommon to be allergic to that! there are other formulations (I personally use testosterone enanthate) and if none of them work for u there are other way to take testosterone. if u are having big itchy welts at ur injection sites PLS talk to ur doctor ab switching ur formulation

[play-now-my-lord]

i liked your post about how trans women's joy in womanhood is gender-affirming for you as a cis woman. real quick can you look up for me if any of your local planned parenthoods prescribe testosterone. testosterone cypionate or androgel, doesn't really matter. it's prescribed on an informed consent basis usually. 100mg per 7 days of cypionate injected into the belly of the thigh tapering up to 200mg as desired or 1-2 pumps of androgel per day applied to the torso ideally the stomach btw

[lettherebetboys]

FIRST T SHOT: COMPLETE✅✅✅‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️

details under the cut!! :-)

oh GOD i am so happy. oh god. oh i am losing my mind. years of agony every waking moment is gonna be over soon enough. even though i won’t see changes for a while, i already feel better.

it came a day early and they accidentally sent me testosterone cypionate instead of enanthate which, longer half-life + 8 carbon fucks severely so i’m not complaining!!! i don’t think i’m allergic, i got a little itchy immediately after injecting but i think it was mostly nerves/putting on my pajamas that had dog hair on them (i’m allergic to my dog), and it went away. i also feel nauseous ~2 hours after injection but i don’t know if it’s an issue with the T or just nerves or something unrelated. i was scrolling on tiktok for a bit which always makes me feel super nauseous so maybe that’s why

this was really, really, really scary. i did it on call with one of my best friends in the world (also trans, on e) and she really helped me. she’s the only person in my life who knows i’m on t, major shoutout, cannot express how much i love her

it’s been 2.5 hours since injecting about 25mg. i fucked up and am not quite sure how much i actually got in there cause the t got all stuck in the syringe plunger??? but the second time it worked i think. may have been more or less then 25mg…but…about? oops!

it didn’t hurt at all the first time but i fucked up and had to start over. the second time hurt a little because i forgot to turn the needle’s long side closer to my body, also the adrenaline had calmed down a little so i felt it more!!! but it was all very lovely and chill. i do subcutaneous (subq) and the needle was tiiiiiny tiny tiny so it really was nothing

i generally just feel Weird. everything feels sharper, i’m very very aware of my body right now. i was in absolute fight or flight panic defense mode while doing the injection because it was 1. just kinda a scary thing! 2. scared someone in my house was gonna catch me (they didn’t, we are all good). so i don’t know if my current Weird feeling is from T or from coming down from my crazy defense mode.

it feels like yesterday it was early august and i first heard of diy, it feels like yesterday i was holding my breath wondering if this was something i could really do. it feels like yesterday i, a trans kid in the south with no resources and no trans community, all on my own besides for a few friends up north, tasted real, tangible hope for the first time. and now i’m here and i did it. i started hrt. i finally did it

it’s Weird but really nice. i looked in the mirror and i feel different, i feel like me but also like a different person and i think i really like it and only time will tell how this all goes!!! i thank god and the universe and whatever divine luck brought me here because oh lord i have been so lucky. i am so lucky and have been so protected. i am so immeasurably grateful

[defilerwyrm]

hi! I've come asking questions about transition (as a trans boy) more specifically, you mentioned that you've used both testosterone cream and injections.

Do you mean the cream/gel kind of HRT that is used once daily? If so, I was wondering whether you noticed any difference in the uptake or changes in the rate of your transition compared to injections. Did changes happen at the same rate as injections or a bit slower, since I've heard there can be problems of the skin not absorbing T as well as injections. Do you have any personal experiences of this?

Also if it's not too personal, which kind of HRT are you on now (injection/cream) and why did you choose to stick with it, if that was your own choice? (ik there can be insurance/supply issues that might affect it)

Howdy! So: this was a ride.

My first provider (not naming names, but she’s a doctor who works in downtown Austin) gave me two choices: find time to take a 1- to 1.5-hour round trip downtown, pay the $20 copay, and have a nurse give me an injection every single week; or use a daily cream from a compounding pharmacy that delivered. For reasons of time and money, I went with the cream.

I was on it for a year; I don’t remember my dosage exactly, but it was something like two clicks of a finicky dispenser. I was on it for a solid year and the only change that occurred was I got a couple more annoying, embarrassing PCOS hairs on my throat. Absolutely nothing else. Meanwhile, every 3 months or so I’d express my frustration with this to my doctor, and she’d just tell me to be patient. Or, you know, come in and pay the copay every week instead.

Now any number of things could have been going on here. She could have had me on a comically-low dose (I really have zero memory of what it was). My biochemistry could have overpowered or resisted it. The compounding pharmacy could have been bullshit. Who knows.

By comparison, right around three months on testosterone cypionate injections, my voice broke and I started sprouting facial and body hair in spades.

Between what my second HR provider (the one who got me onto cypionate) and other trans men I’ve heard from have said, the gel version is a much slower ramp-up usually because you’re adding T to your system in small, daily doses, and the cream version seems to be pretty uncommon; both of them are better if you really want to ease into the changes instead of just getting the whole second puberty thing over with, or if you’ve already been through testosterone-dominant puberty and just need to maintain your levels.

Since July 2017 I’ve been on a weekly 0.4 mL injection of 500 mg/mL testosterone cypionate. It was pretty challenging at first with my phobia of hypodermic syringes, but I’ve inured myself to it over time. My habitual injection site has also acclimated to it so that there’s literally no pain at all if I get myself in just the right spot, so that’s pretty great; and using the bathroom mirror instead of looking directly at myself has proven a great little trick to hoodwink my brain about what’s going on, thus reducing my anxiety about it a great deal.

I’ve stuck with it because it gets results, it’s a lot less messy and aggravating than a topical treatment, getting the right dosage is MUCH easier, it’s become a little ritual of sorts, and I only have to remember it ONCE a week instead of seven times. It’s also lessened my anxiety when I have to get blood drawn or have IVs in (though I still really fuckin’ hate IV lines). YMMV, but for me, it’s been a great experience overall.

We’re not gonna talk about the thinning hair, though. -_- One more crappy thing I inherited from my dad’s side, and wouldn’t you know it, it’s activated by testosterone….

[healthexpressclinics]

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) Clinics: What to Know Before You Start

If you’re experiencing fatigue, low libido, or mood swings, you might be among the 40% of men over 45 with low testosterone levels. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) clinics have surged in popularity as a solution, but navigating this treatment requires careful research. In this guide, we’ll answer your top questions about TRT clinics—from benefits and risks to costs and how to choose the right provider—so you can make an informed decision.

What Are Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) Clinics?

Testosterone replacement therapy clinics specialize in diagnosing and treating low testosterone (hypogonadism). These clinics offer:

Hormone level testing (blood work, physical exams).

Customized TRT plans (injections, gels, pellets).

Ongoing monitoring to optimize results and minimize risks.

TRT is FDA-approved for men with clinically low testosterone, but not all clinics follow evidence-based practices. Let’s break down what you need to know.

Do You Need TRT? Signs of Low Testosterone

Low testosterone isn’t just about sex drive. Symptoms often include:

Chronic fatigue or low energy.

Reduced muscle mass and strength.

Depression, irritability, or brain fog.

Erectile dysfunction or decreased libido.

Weight gain (especially belly fat).

Important: These symptoms can overlap with other conditions like thyroid issues or sleep apnea. A reputable TRT clinic will rule out other causes before prescribing treatment.

How TRT Clinics Work: The Process Explained

Here’s what to expect when visiting testosterone replacement therapy clinics:

1. Diagnostic Testing

Blood Tests: Measure total testosterone, free testosterone, LH, FSH, and estradiol. Levels below 300 ng/dL typically qualify for TRT.

Physical Exam: Check for signs like breast tissue enlargement (gynecomastia) or testicular atrophy.

2. Treatment Options

Injections: Testosterone cypionate or enanthate (1-2 weekly shots).

Topicals: Gels or patches applied daily.

Pellets: Implanted under the skin every 3–6 months.

Oral Medications: Rarely used due to liver risks.

3. Follow-Up & Monitoring

Regular blood tests to adjust doses and check red blood cell counts, cholesterol, and PSA (prostate-specific antigen).

Pros and Cons of TRT Clinics

Benefits of TRT

Increased Energy & Mood: Patients often report better focus and reduced irritability.

Improved Muscle Mass & Fat Loss: Testosterone aids metabolism and protein synthesis.

Enhanced Libido & Sexual Function: Restores erectile strength and desire.

Bone Density Protection: Reduces osteoporosis risk in older men.

Risks and Side Effects

Acne or Oily Skin: Common with hormone fluctuations.

Sleep Apnea Worsening: TRT may exacerbate untreated sleep disorders.

Infertility: Suppressed sperm production (reversible with HCG therapy).

Cardiovascular Risks: Some studies link long-term TRT to heart issues, though evidence is mixed.

Key Takeaway: TRT isn’t a “fountain of youth.” It’s a medical treatment best for men with confirmed low T—not those seeking quick muscle gains.

How to Choose a Safe TRT Clinic

Not all testosterone replacement therapy clinics are equal. Red flags and green flags to watch:

✅ Look For:

Medical Oversight: Board-certified endocrinologists or urologists on staff.

Transparent Diagnostics: No prescriptions without blood work.

Personalized Plans: Doses tailored to your labs and goals, not one-size-fits-all.

❌ Avoid:

Pushy Sales Tactics: Clinics offering TRT as a “miracle cure” for aging.

No Follow-Up: TRT requires ongoing monitoring to prevent complications.

Unlicensed Providers: Anti-aging clinics run by non-specialists.

Costs of TRT Clinics: What to Expect

TRT costs in the U.S. vary widely:ServiceAverage CostInitial Consultation150–150–300Monthly TRT (Injections)50–50–150Blood Work (Every 6 Mos.)200–200–500Pellets or Gels200–200–500/month

Insurance Coverage:

Most insurers cover TRT only if��medically necessary (lab-confirmed low T).

Cash-based clinics are common but pricier.

FAQs About Testosterone Replacement Therapy Clinics

1. “Is TRT Safe Long-Term?”

When monitored properly, TRT is generally safe. However, lifelong therapy may be needed, and risks like polycythemia (high red blood cells) require regular checkups.

2. “Can TRT Clinics Help Women?”

Yes—some clinics treat low testosterone in women (e.g., post-menopause), but doses are much lower.

3. “How Quickly Will I See Results?”

Energy and mood improve in 3–6 weeks; muscle gains and fat loss take 3–6 months.

4. “Are Online TRT Clinics Legit?”

Some are, but avoid providers that skip blood tests or offer unrealistic promises.

Alternatives to TRT Clinics

Before starting TRT, consider:

Lifestyle Changes: Weight loss, strength training, and stress reduction can boost natural T.

Clomid (Clomiphene): Stimulates natural testosterone production (off-label use).

Hormone Optimization Programs: Combine TRT with thyroid or adrenal support.

The Bottom Line

Testosterone replacement therapy clinics can be life-changing for men with legitimate hypogonadism, but they’re not a quick fix. Success depends on:

Choosing a qualified, patient-focused clinic.

Committing to long-term monitoring.

Pairing TRT with healthy habits.

[steroidsgrabber]

How Testosterone Cypionate Injection Helps Athletes Achieve Peak Performance

In the world of sports and fitness, achieving peak performance is the ultimate goal for athletes. With rigorous training, strict diets, and a disciplined lifestyle, athletes constantly push their bodies to the limit. For those seeking additional support to optimize their performance, Testosterone Cypionate Injection has emerged as a prominent tool. As a synthetic form of testosterone, this injectable solution plays a crucial role in enhancing strength, stamina, and overall athletic capabilities. This blog explores how Testosterone Cypionate helps athletes achieve peak performance while discussing its benefits, mechanisms, and considerations for safe use.

Understanding Testosterone Cypionate: The Basics

What Is Testosterone Cypionate?

Testosterone Cypionate is an injectable androgen ester designed to mimic the effects of natural testosterone in the body. It is widely used to treat conditions like hypogonadism, where the body cannot produce enough testosterone. For athletes, it offers a means to boost testosterone levels, which can lead to increased muscle mass, improved recovery times, and enhanced energy.

How Does It Work?

Once injected into the muscle, Testosterone cypionate dosage is gradually released into the bloodstream. It binds to androgen receptors in muscle tissues, triggering protein synthesis and nitrogen retention. These processes are vital for muscle growth, repair, and recovery. Additionally, testosterone influences red blood cell production, which improves oxygen delivery to muscles during intense workouts.

The Role of Testosterone in Athletic Performance

Testosterone is a critical hormone for athletic performance due to its effects on muscle growth, endurance, and energy levels. Here’s how it benefits athletes:

1. Muscle Growth and Strength

Testosterone stimulates protein synthesis, the process by which cells repair and build muscle tissue. Athletes using Testosterone Cypionate often experience significant gains in muscle size and strength, enabling them to perform better in strength-based activities.

2. Improved Recovery

Intense training sessions cause micro tears in muscle fibers. Testosterone accelerates the repair process, reducing recovery time and allowing athletes to train harder and more frequently.

3. Increased Stamina

Testosterone enhances red blood cell production, improving oxygen transport in the body. This boost in oxygenation helps athletes sustain energy during prolonged physical activities.

4. Mental Focus and Motivation

Beyond physical benefits, testosterone influences mental performance. It improves focus, confidence, and motivation—factors critical for success in competitive sports.

Key Benefits of Testosterone Cypionate for Athletes

Testosterone Cypionate, as a synthetic form of testosterone, mimics the natural hormone’s benefits but offers a more controlled and consistent release. Athletes often turn to Testosterone Cypionate to experience enhanced performance and recovery. Here are the key benefits it provides:

1. Enhanced Muscle Mass

One of the primary reasons athletes use Testosterone Cypionate is for its ability to promote lean muscle mass. This benefit is especially important for athletes involved in sports that require strength, power, and speed. Testosterone Cypionate Injection helps athletes build muscle tissue without the excessive fat accumulation that may come with other bulking agents. When combined with proper training and nutrition, Testosterone Cypionate encourages muscle growth, leading to improved strength and performance. The increased muscle mass provides better leverage in power sports like weightlifting, football, or rugby.

2. Improved Physical Endurance

Another standout benefit of Testosterone Cypionate is its ability to boost red blood cell count. With more red blood cells circulating in the bloodstream, oxygen delivery to muscles is more efficient. This ensures that athletes experience reduced fatigue during physical exertion and can maintain a high level of performance throughout longer training sessions or competitions.

In endurance sports, such as long-distance running, cycling, or rowing, this improved oxygenation makes a significant difference. Athletes using Testosterone Cypionate often report better performance during endurance events, as the body is more capable of withstanding the physical demands for extended periods.

3. Faster Recovery Rates

Athletes frequently experience muscle soreness or even minor injuries due to the repetitive nature of their training. Testosterone Cypionate aids in accelerating the body’s recovery process by increasing the rate of muscle protein synthesis. This means that muscle fibers heal faster, leading to reduced soreness and a quicker return to full strength after tough workouts.

Faster recovery also enables athletes to increase the intensity or frequency of their training, as they are less likely to experience prolonged muscle pain. This ensures that athletes can consistently improve their performance without risking burnout or injury.

4. Boosted Energy Levels

Low testosterone levels are often linked to feelings of fatigue, lack of motivation, and diminished overall energy. By increasing testosterone levels, Testosterone Cypionate can restore optimal energy levels. This boost in energy allows athletes to tackle their training sessions with more vigor, focus, and enthusiasm.

High energy levels also enhance an athlete’s overall ability to perform in high-intensity sports or rigorous training regimens. When energy levels are sustained throughout training and competition, athletes can push themselves harder, resulting in better performance and enhanced results.

5. Better Body Composition

Testosterone Cypionate Injection helps with muscle growth and aids in the reduction of body fat. When combined with proper exercise and nutrition, athletes often notice a significant improvement in their body composition, achieving a more defined and athletic physique. This is particularly beneficial for athletes in sports like bodybuilding, track and field, and gymnastics, where body composition plays a crucial role in performance. The lean muscle gain and fat reduction resulting from increased testosterone levels lead to an ideal physique for peak performance.

How Athletes Use Testosterone Cypionate

Typical Dosages

The dosage of Testosterone Cypionate varies depending on individual goals, age, and overall health. For athletes, a common dose ranges between 200 mg and 600 mg per week. However, it’s crucial to start with a lower dose to gauge how the body reacts before gradually increasing it.

Injection Techniques

The injection is administered intramuscularly, typically in large muscles like the glutes or thighs. Proper sterilization and technique are essential to avoid infections or complications.

Cycle Duration

Most athletes use Testosterone Cypionate in cycles lasting 10 to 12 weeks, followed by a break to allow the body to normalize hormone levels. Cycling reduces the risk of dependency and side effects.

Stacking with Other Compounds

Athletes often "stack" Testosterone Cypionate with other anabolic steroids or supplements to maximize results. For instance, combining it with compounds like Deca-Durabolin or Dianabol can enhance strength and muscle gains.

Is Testosterone Cypionate Right for You?

Factors to Consider

Health Status: Ensure you have no underlying conditions that could be worsened by testosterone use.

Goals: Define whether your aim is to enhance athletic performance, build muscle, or recover from low testosterone levels.

Professional Guidance: Consult with a doctor or endocrinologist to determine if Testosterone Cypionate is suitable for your needs.

Testosterone Cypionate can be a game-changer for athletes seeking to achieve peak performance. However, it requires careful use and a thorough understanding of its effects. By combining it with proper training, nutrition, and medical guidance, athletes can harness its benefits while minimizing risks.

Final Thoughts

Athletes are always looking for ways to optimize their performance, and Testosterone Cypionate Injection offers a powerful tool to unlock their full potential. From boosting muscle growth to improving endurance and recovery, it provides comprehensive benefits that enhance athletic capabilities. However, responsible use, adherence to legal regulations, and consideration of ethical implications are critical for safe and effective results.When used properly, Testosterone Cypionate can elevate an athlete's performance, unlocking new potential both on and off the field. To purchase Testosterone Cypionate online, visit Steroids Grabber today – your trusted supplement search engine for the best options available!

[axsteroidsus]

Buy 1-Test Cyp 100 USA, A Complete Powerhouse for Bodybuilding

1 Test Cyp 100, which contains the active substance Dihydroboldenone Cypionate (100 mg), is regarded as a dihydrotestosterone derivative and a synthetic androgen, an anabolic steroid drug. Dihydroboldenone is a testosterone derivative that shares structural similarities with Primobolan (Methenolone), except for the methyl radical at position 1, which was necessary to give Primobolan its oral bioactivity. This has had a few modifications. Primobolan has ten times the anabolic and androgenic qualities of dihydroboldenone, which is a more potent steroid due to the lack of a methyl radical at position 1. Buy 1 Test Cyp 100 USA for cutting because it does not provide flavoring and bears no water weight. Dragon Pharma produces this med, which is good for dry muscle mass growth. For more click: https://axsteroids.com/injectable-steroids-2113/1-test-cyp-100-48339.html                     

[bhushans]

Meeting the Needs of a Growing Population: The Evolving Global Klinefelter Syndrome Therapeutics Market

The Global Klinefelter Syndrome Therapeutics Industry is expected to have a significant upswing, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5% predicted from 2023 to 2033. It is anticipated that the market will be valued at US$ 1.85 billion, a substantial rise from US$ 1.14 billion in 2023.

The unidentified symptoms of Klinefelter Syndrome make it difficult to diagnose, which has led to cooperation between the government and medical institutions like the NIH and FDA. The goal of increasing awareness of this illness is to guarantee prompt action and enhance early detection.

The program is a component of larger incentives for various health examinations, which are expected to be a major factor in the market’s future growth. Increased clinical symptoms in all age groups and a rise in male fertility issues are anticipated to be major factors driving market growth.

Request a Sample of this Report Now! https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-16407

Europe is expected to be the second-fastest-growing region in the industry. The rising prevalence of the disease has enhanced research financing, and health organizations such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) are focusing on raising awareness about the syndrome, which is cruising market growth. North America is expected to dominate the market due to the region’s large number of testosterone drugmakers, as well as increased awareness among the region’s population. In addition, a large number of treatment centers for this ailment will increase market share over the forecast period.

Key Takeaways from the Global Klinefelter Syndrome Therapeutics Industry Study

From 2018-2022, a CAGR of 4% was registered for the Klinefelter syndrome therapeutics market

By therapeutics, testosterone replacement therapy to experience maximum uptake, growing at a 3.1% CAGR

Hospital pharmacies to remain primary POC for availing Klinefelter syndrome therapeutics drugs, growing at a 4.6% CAGR

North America to emerge as the kingpin, registering a market share worth 38%

Europe to be the 2ndlargest market, expected to accumulate a 34% revenue share

Asia Pacific to show significant growth, registering a CAGR of 5.1% until 2033

“With rising instances of male infertility, the need for seeking therapy and diagnostics to detect the presence of Klinefelter syndrome is increasing at a fast pace. Treatment providers are therefore endowed with an opportunity to introduce more robust approaches, generating many opportunities,” remarks an FMI analyst.

Key Market Players

Key players in the Klinefeltr Syndrome Therapeutics market are Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Kyowa Kirin Co., Ltd, Pfizer Inc, AstraZeneca, AbbVie, Inc, Bausch Health Companies Inc, Bristol Myers Squibb Company, GSK Plc, Novartis AG, Viatris.

Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited and Seagen Inc. announced that data from the Phase 3 ECHELON-1 clinical trial of an ADCETRIS® (brentuximab vedotin) plus chemotherapy combination would be conveyed verbally at the 59th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).

In 2021, Pfizer Inc. launched Testosterone Cypionate Injection as a replacement therapy for males suffering from exogenously low testosterone or absence.

Key Segments Profiled in the Global Klinefelter Syndrome Therapeutics Industry Report

By Therapeutics:

Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Fertility Treatment

Surgeries

Hormone Treatment

Others

By Application:

Hospitals

Specialty Clinics

Others

By Distribution Channel:

Hospital Pharmacy

Retail Pharmacy

Online Pharmacies

Others

[fitjourneydaily]

Boost Your Performance with Testosterone Cypionate and Natural Testosterone Supplements

In the world of fitness and bodybuilding, testosterone plays a crucial role in muscle development, strength gains, and overall performance. As a content marketer with years of experience, I understand the importance of creating comprehensive and SEO-friendly content to provide valuable information to readers. In this article, we will explore the benefits of Testosterone Cypionate and natural testosterone supplements, discuss the best testosterone booster options, and review Turbotest to help you make informed decisions. 1. Testosterone Cypionate: Maximizing Your Potential Testosterone Cypionate is a synthetic version of testosterone widely used in medical and performance-enhancing contexts. It is available in the form of injections, allowing for controlled and precise dosage administration. Testosterone Cypionate offers various benefits, including: - Increased Muscle Mass: Testosterone Cypionate stimulates protein synthesis and enhances nitrogen retention, resulting in improved muscle growth and strength. - Enhanced Performance: This hormone plays a crucial role in increasing red blood cell production, leading to improved oxygenation and endurance during physical activities. - Improved Recovery: Testosterone Cypionate accelerates the recovery process, reducing muscle soreness and promoting faster healing after intense workouts. 2. Natural Testosterone Supplements: Harnessing Your Body's Potential For those seeking a natural and safe alternative to synthetic testosterone, natural testosterone supplements can be beneficial. These supplements are formulated with natural ingredients, known for their testosterone-boosting properties. Here are some reasons why natural testosterone supplements are becoming increasingly popular: - Balanced Hormone Production: Natural testosterone supplements support the body's natural testosterone production, helping to restore and maintain optimal hormone levels. - Increased Energy Levels: By improving testosterone levels, these supplements can boost energy and stamina, enabling you to perform better in the gym and in daily activities. - Enhanced Libido: Testosterone plays a vital role in sexual health. Natural testosterone supplements can help improve libido and address issues related to sexual performance. - Muscle Growth and Fat Loss: Natural testosterone supplements can aid in muscle development and fat loss by increasing protein synthesis, promoting an anabolic environment, and accelerating metabolism. 3. Best Testosterone Boosters: Finding the Right Fit When it comes to testosterone boosters, it's essential to choose the right one for your specific needs and goals. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the best testosterone booster: - Ingredients: Look for testosterone boosters containing scientifically-backed ingredients such as D-Aspartic Acid, Fenugreek, Zinc, and Vitamin D. These ingredients have shown positive effects on testosterone levels. - Customer Reviews: Check customer reviews and testimonials to gauge the effectiveness and safety of the product you are considering. - Reputation and Brand: Opt for reputable brands known for their quality and transparency in ingredient sourcing and manufacturing practices. Trusted manufacturers often undergo third-party testing for purity and potency. - Dosage and Usage: Pay attention to recommended dosages and usage instructions to ensure you follow the correct protocols for maximum safety and effectiveness. - Safety Profile: Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplementation regimen, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking medications. 4. Turbotest Reviews: Analyzing the Performance Turbotest is a popular testosterone booster in the market that claims to naturally stimulate testosterone production. While individual experiences may vary, Turbotest has received positive reviews for its potential benefits, including increased energy, improved muscle growth, and enhanced overall performance. However, remember that results may differ from person to person, and it's always essential to consider multiple perspectives. 1. Testosterone Cypionate 2. Testosterone Supplements 3. Best Testosterone Booster 4. Turbotest Reviews Conclusion: In conclusion, Testosterone Cypionate and natural testosterone supplements offer valuable options for individuals looking to optimize their performance, increase muscle mass, and improve overall well-being. Remember to choose the best testosterone booster that suits your specific needs, taking into account ingredients, customer reviews, reputation, dosage, and safety. Turbotest, among other testosterone boosters, can be a potential choice, but always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplementation regimen Optimize your testosterone levels with TurboTest – explore reviews and learn about effective ways to increase testosterone. Discover the benefits of testosterone replacement therapy and supplements. For more information and solutions, visit our website. Visit the Turbotest Product Page. Read the full article

[apocraphelion]

I am almost 6 years on T total, and 1 year on injections (I started on gel due to an allergic reaction to the first injection type I tried, which made me hesitate to try others) I'm 28 now, I started T when I was 22. I get mine through planned parenthood.

for me the gel ended up effectively being low dose because of skin issues and difficulty with doing it Every day, though now that I'm on injections I've deliberately lowered how much I'm taking a few times. I'm "genderfluid" (more just plurality, I'm a co fronting heavy system) and get dysphoria both directions, so it's a bit of a balancing act for me.

My first noticeable effect was bottom growth, it hurt for a couple weeks for me, but growth since then hasn't been uncomfortable at all.

body and facial hair growth is slow. if there's some you don't want you can kind of tell when it's starting, and could drop your dose or stop altogether to avoid it getting thick there. not sure if that's one of your concerns but it is one I've heard from others. You can't choose where you'll grow hair (I still don't have moustache at all, so I opt to shave my chin and keep sideburns cause a beard without a moustache isn't my look) but you can choose to stop whenever.

my voice didn't drop much at first, it shifted a little while I was on gel, but it took the higher T levels I got through injections for it to change significantly. The slight shift on low dose was enough to help my dysphoria some, but not to get me to where I wanted to be- I wouldn't have been happy if that was all I'd been able to do, which is a large part of why I decided to try injections again. I was starting from being a soprano, so quite high, and that undoubtedly factored in. My voice drop on the injections happened within the first 3 months, and has mostly been settling in/becoming comfortable since then.

T did increase my blood pressure. In my case hypertension runs in my family, but even if yours is normal or low it's something to be aware of and check regularly, which a decent medical provider should do putting you on T and at checkups (this worked out well for me as I'm now on blood pressure meds that also help my migraines and my anxiety.)

some people say it makes them significantly more horny? for me it has impacted my libido, but still nowhere near what it was like for me just being a teenager.

also I grew half an inch taller, and my feet went up a whole shoe size. the feet were earlier on, maybe when I was 24, but the height was actually just last year. I grew half an inch taller at 27 years old, which I had assumed wasn't possible.

edit to include doses, as some folks in the comments are sharing rather higher numbers so I thought I'd offer a comparison:

started with 1 gel pack per day, 1%, 25mg/2.5g, doubled to 2 packs less than a year in- this was never effective for me as I both didn't manage it daily and I have skin issues.

on injections I'm using 200mg/1ml Testosterone Enanthate (I'm allergic to cypionate) I started at .25ml injections weekly, and have since quartered my dose by halving both the quantity and frequency. my last blood draw was when I was doing .15ml per week, and my T levels were still just over 300.

uhh I think that's about it. Here's some selfies with my sideburns I guess

to my followers on T, I want to ask what kind of effects does it have on you and how were you able to access it?

(I am thinking)

[danishkhan786]

Winstrol

Testosterone Cypionate

Isafesteroid.com

Testosterone Cypionate is a synthetic form of testosterone, which is the primary male sex hormone. It is used medically to treat conditions caused by low testosterone levels in men, such as hypogonadism or delayed puberty. It belongs to a class of drugs called androgens.

Find the Best Testosterone Cypionate - ISafeSteroids

Here are some key points about Testosterone Cypionate:

Hormone Replacement Therapy: Testosterone Cypionate is commonly prescribed as a form of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for men with low testosterone levels. It helps to restore testosterone levels to a normal range, improving symptoms associated with low testosterone, such as fatigue, decreased libido, and muscle weakness.

Administration: Testosterone Cypionate is typically administered via intramuscular injection. The frequency of injections can vary, but it is commonly given every 1 to 2 weeks.

Dosage: The dosage of Testosterone Cypionate depends on the individual's needs and the severity of testosterone deficiency. It is important to follow the dosage instructions provided by a healthcare professional.

Side Effects: Like any medication, Testosterone Cypionate can have side effects. Common side effects may include acne, increased facial or body hair, mood swings, oily skin, water retention, and decreased sperm count. It may also have more serious side effects, such as liver toxicity, cardiovascular problems, and prostate enlargement. These side effects should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Monitoring: When using Testosterone Cypionate, regular monitoring of testosterone levels and overall health is important. This helps to ensure that the therapy is effective and safe. Blood tests are typically performed to monitor hormone levels and to check for any potential adverse effects.

Abuse and Misuse: It's worth noting that Testosterone Cypionate, like other forms of testosterone, has the potential for misuse and abuse, especially among athletes and bodybuilders. Abuse of testosterone can lead to various health problems and is against the rules of most sports organizations.

It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before considering or initiating Testosterone Cypionate therapy. They can evaluate your individual circumstances, discuss potential risks and benefits, and provide appropriate guidance and monitoring throughout the treatment process.

Nandrolone Phenylpropionate

Nandrolone Phenylpropionate (NPP) is an anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) that is derived from the hormone nandrolone. It is a shorter-acting ester of nandrolone, compared to the more commonly known Nandrolone Decanoate (Deca-Durabolin).

Here are some key points about Nandrolone Phenylpropionate:

Anabolic Steroid: Nandrolone Phenylpropionate is classified as an anabolic steroid, which means it is a synthetic substance that mimics the effects of testosterone in the body. It is known for its anabolic properties, promoting muscle growth and enhancing protein synthesis.

Medical Uses: Nandrolone derivatives, including NPP, have been used medically for conditions such as muscle wasting diseases, anemia, osteoporosis, and certain types of breast cancer. However, its medical use has become less common compared to the past due to the availability of alternative treatments.

Administration: Nandrolone Phenylpropionate is typically administered via intramuscular injection. The frequency of injections can vary, but it is commonly given every few days to maintain stable blood levels.

Performance Enhancement: Like other anabolic steroids, Nandrolone Phenylpropionate has been misused by athletes and bodybuilders for performance-enhancing purposes. It is believed to increase muscle mass, strength, and endurance, although the use of these substances for non-medical purposes is generally prohibited in competitive sports.

Side Effects: NPP can have various side effects, including androgenic effects such as acne, oily skin, and increased body and facial hair. It may also cause cardiovascular effects, liver toxicity, suppression of natural testosterone production, and other hormonal imbalances. The severity and frequency of these side effects can vary depending on individual factors, dosage, and duration of use.

Legal Status: The use of Nandrolone Phenylpropionate as a performance-enhancing substance without a valid medical prescription is illegal in many countries. It is classified as a controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and misuse.

It is important to note that the use of anabolic steroids, including Nandrolone Phenylpropionate, can have serious health risks and should only be considered under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. They can provide appropriate advice, monitor your health during use, and discuss the potential benefits and risks associated with these substances.

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“Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Inc is recalling lots of testosterone cypionate injection due concerns about product impurities and sterility, according to the June 29, 2022, US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Enforcement Report.

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[Source]

[genderqueerdykes]

Helloo, could you explain the diffrent types of testosterone like as in androgel, sustanon, all that stuff. I'm thinking of going on sustanon but I don't see quite alot of info except for cis guys using it for bulking and im afraid it's not quite a good comparison for ftms

i am not familiar with sustanon, so i will have to do some research and return to you at a later time, as well as see if any other anons or anyone in the comments can help for the time being. also i typically tend to recommend the subreddit community r/ftm, they are great for asking questions about different forms of T since so many guys use it =)

i have personal experience with androgel, and injectable testosterone cypionate. i used injectable T subcutaneous, meaning I injected into fat/skin tissue, and not intramuscular/into muscle tissue, due to my intersex condition and natural testosterone levels. I'm not sure how commonly this method is prescribed to people, but I have always been instructed to do it this way, as I've been told it will lead to less prominent up-and-down spikes and fluctuations of hormone levels. I'm not a professional though so I can't verify as to whether or not this was just that one professional's advice, or if that's 100% accurate.

again, for me as an intersex person, I don't know how applicable that is to perisex trans people, as i know most perisex transmascs inject intramuscular. that being said, testosterone cypionate is generally the go-to, it's strong, it's effective, it's kind of what everyone pictures when they think of T. the only thing to keep in mind about injectable T is pharmacies don't always give you the correct gauges of needle. generally you want 2 different gauge of needle, one larger and thicker to draw the T from the vial and a smaller thinner one for injecting, but pharmacies are really bad at giving you both, and giving you the correct gauges of both. this is easily the biggest pain with injectable T. if you have needle trauma or just don't want to have very strong spikes of testosterone and very strong drops in your hormone levels leading up to injection day, a gentler option is topical.

i've personally used androgel and i really like it, that's actually what i'm using right now, as i've been injecting for 7 years and my doctor wanted me to move away from that to avoid potential tissue damage from years and years of poking my skin. i really like androgel, although for some people it is less effective. if you have very low natural testosterone, or, your body is just poorly receptive to the hormone and doesn't take to it easy, it make struggle to benefit as much from topical testosterone, however nothing is stopping you from asking your clinician to try the topical T at a slightly higher dose to see if you just need a boost when using it transdermally. your dose isn't going to be the same on an injectable format as it is on a transdermal format

i get a generic version of androgel that comes in a bunch of pre-measured tubes so i don't have to measure anything out. i just apply 1 tube two days a week. i find that super handy as measuring my dose with injectable T was sometimes time consuming, especially if the pharmacy gave me the wrong gauge of needle, which they did often. my only complaint is that it's an alcohol based gel, so it smells very strongly when applying it. it literally just smells like rubbing alcohol, which doesn't sound bad, but it smells like about 1 gallon of it at once. that's hyperbole of course but it's just very concetrated smelling. the two areas they suggest applying it are on your abdomen (belly) and on the outside of your biceps (between shoulder and elbow). you can pick what works for you, i typically tend to do it as far away from my face as possible so i'm not dying from the smell but some of my alters put it on our arm because they're too lazy to put it under our shirt so (shrug)

always wash your hands directly after using topical T because you can in fact transfer testosterone to other people by touching them. you're not going to cause them to transition but it's just important to wash your hands to make sure you're not getting it on anyone else. it's recommended to avoid showering or getting into a pool or getting wet or anything for at least 45 minutes, i'd wait at least an hour or more if you can, just to make sure you're getting the most out of it you possibly can. it does leave a residue on your skin, but i notice it's more annoying on your hands than anywhere else. i think some people probably use a glove to apply it but i am broke as hell rn and don't

that's about all i can think of at the moment, anyone else please feel free to weigh in about any other kinds of testosterone or to throw in anything else i missed, like i said, these are the only two forms i have direct experience with. hope this helped some!

[defilerwyrm]

Hi! I was scrolling through the top surgery tag on tumblr and came across your last post, it's fine if the offer isn't still up btw, but I wanted to ask about your experience with HRT specifically with using gel/cream, and all the surgery stuff too if that's alright! Obviously feel free to share as much or as little as you'd want to, I wouldn't want to make you write a super long thing if it was really taxing lol, I'm just really wanting to do HRT and get top/bottom surgery and hearing lots of different experiences for those things have been helping me a lot. Thank you!

Howdy! Yup, offer’s still valid. I’ll start with HRT.

I was nervous about HRT to start with because I have a phobia of hypodermic syringes and— shit, actually, it’s shot day. BRB.

Okay. I was dreading the idea of having to give myself injections every week. The doctor I was going to gave me a choice: drive halfway across the city and pay $20 to have a nurse do it every week, or get a cream version from a local compounder. I went with the cream because I didn’t have the time or money for the other option, and no needles sounded great.

So I took it every day, and I waited. And I waited. At every appointment the doctor asked me how my changes had been coming along and I had to tell her there’d been none. Just be patient, she kept telling me, it takes time. So I waited. And waited. Almost a year of using the cream daily…zero changes. I told the doc I was getting frustrated with the time table and wanted to switch to cypionate injections, and she reiterated that she wouldn’t allow it unless I came in and paid the copay every week.

Incidentally, when I went to her for a letter to get my name & gender marker changed, she cheerfully agreed, did it on the spot…and did not tell me that she was going to charge $300 for it until I got the bill. Some things clicked into place about her and her practice.

Shortly after the name/GM change, I was forced to move to Houston. I was fed up with her and the cream by then so I found a low-cost clinic that did informed consent HRT. On my very first appointment I learned that the topical versions of testosterone are meant for guys who have already HAD male puberty and just need to keep their levels boosted. I walked out with a prescription for testosterone cypionate, 0.4 mg/week. Three months later my voice started changing and I’d never been so happy to sound ridiculous.

Facial and body hair came in slowly. My forearms and throat were the first places where hairs changed from vellus to terminal. There was one appointment where my prescribing RN asked me how my body hair was coming in. “Slowly,” I said. Two days later I got out of the shower, looked down at my belly, and blurted, “Oh my god, I’m a werewolf.”

My facial hair trailed behind still. I started getting the first hints of sideburns after I think 8 months on cypionate. My beard didn’t extend much past my jawline other than my upper lip and the outer rim of my chin, and that was frustrating, so I did some research and started microneedling my face and using liquid minoxidil (Rogaine) daily. It took a long time but it’s helped a lot, and FINALLY my chin hair connects to my moustache.

IMPORTANT side note on minoxidil: it is VERY, VERY DEADLY TO CATS. If there are cats in your life and you’re using minoxidil to encourage terminal hair growth, you MUST either use a rubber glove you use ONLY for that and keep out of cats’ reach OR wash your hands at least twice before touching any cat, and they CANNOT be allowed to come into contact with the places you applied it for no less than four hours. Used 1-2x daily, minoxidil takes 6-12 months to work, so it’s playing the long game, but once you’ve got the terminal hair you want and you’re still taking HRT, you can safely stop using it.

On that note, not much longer after my belly hair exploded, I started noticing my hairline getting thinner up top. RIP me. Minoxidil can help with this too if it happens to you and you don’t fancy the bald look. Note that when people say guys need to look at their mother’s side to predict male pattern baldness, that only applies to CIS men, because the gene is carried on the X chromosome. Guys like us can get it from either side. In my case, my dad’s. -_-

Behaviorally, testosterone very definitely changed me…for the better. Once I was on cypionate for a bit and my levels were good, I was a hell of a lot calmer. I don’t know how much of that was because I was finally treating my dysphoria and how much was because my hormones were being regulated, but it was a big difference. I haven’t actually seen a difference in my libido because I was a horny bastard to begin with, but it DID give me the confidence to eventually start seeking out sexual partners. YMMV very wildly there.

I do notice that I get sluggish and sleepy at the end of my hormonal cycle. A friend calls it “Cat Piss Sundays,” because we both inject on Mondays so Sunday our T is at its nadir, and we feel, well, like cat piss.

This is already really long so I’m putting the rest under a cut!

Wow, Tumblr just randomly deleted like 7 paragraphs. Holy fuck. Okay, I’ll summarize.

If you ever get pushback from a pharmacy falsely claiming that you don’t have insurance when you do, or that it hasn’t been long enough since your last fill, get on the phone with your insurance and your prescriber and check for two things: A) if your doctor prescribed more than one month without telling you and the pharmacy changed your prescription without telling you, and B) if the pharmacist is a cissexist POS who arbitrarily entered F for sex when your insurance has an M.

I’ll spare you the details, but the combination of those things led to me having to pay out of pocket for T for months, being forced to go without my vital psych meds for months, having a nervous breakdown, losing my job, insurance, and home, and falling into financial ruin, and being dogpiled on Reddit for daring to be frustrated at being lied to and denied my medication. All because pharmacy staff didn’t do what they were told because they thought they knew better and then decided to lie about it.

Since I moved back to Austin at the end of 2019, I’ve been getting my T through Planned Parenthood. For some reason, I actually do get my full 10 weeks of T at a time through Walgreens…which was who I was with originally back in Houston when they filled an Rx for one 10 mL vial (25 weeks) with two half-filled 1 mL vials (4 weeks) and didn’t tell anyone, so I don’t even know what the truth behind that whole fiasco was anymore.

I’m about to have to switch pharmacies and my hackles are all the way up about it. Best of luck to both of us.

TOP SURGERY

I lucked out hard: one of the foremost gender affirmation surgical practices in the world has an office in my city, and at the time I had REALLY good insurance. There was a year-long wait for my top surgery and I had to use that time to get my BMI down, which is effectively like telling Tantalus “why don’t you just grab a snack if you’re so hungry” but I was able to starve myself enough to do it. I know a disturbing number of trans men and trans mascs who’ve had their top surgeries pushed back or outright cancelled out from under them because of BMI. I have Opinions on that. But I got it, anyway.

Because of my weight and the size of my breasts, I had to have a bilateral mastectomy—the kind that results in scars running along the bottom of the pecs. If you’re slender and have small breasts, you can probably have a keyhole incision mastectomy, which only leaves tiny little scars. But if you need bilateral, don’t let the kind of art of trans guys you see on Tumblr & Twitter scare you: these artists almost always GROSSLY inflate the size of the scars. They’re not these huge, wide, jagged things. Mine are like 2 mm wide on the right and 3-4 mm wide on the left (the latter are bigger because of my revision, discussed below).

In order for insurance to pay for this, I was able to use the same letters I’d gotten from two therapists, my psychiatrist, and my HRT doctor that I’d used to get my name/GM change done, because it had been less than one year since they were written.

The best advice I can give you is to prepare for the limitations of your recovery. Get button-down shirts, because t-shirts are just not happening, and wear one when you go in for surgery. Move things you’ll need access to down/up to waist height whenever you can. If you’re the type who can eat leftovers and you won’t have someone to cook for you, make up to two weeks worth of food that you can put in the fridge or freezer and then reheat easily. Stay ahead of the pain, in terms of meds, but if they put you on opioids be careful not to double dose within 4-6 hours. DO NOT try to lift anything more than like 5 lbs for the first two weeks. If you’re lucky like I was, you’ll pretty much sleep for the first 7-14 days and then be fine.

I arrived at the hospital at about 5 AM, and left around 7ish PM that same day.

I lucked out again in that I had family in town who let me stay with them for two weeks and bring my cats over, and my mom stayed up here too for a while to help cook and look after me. I was pretty useless then, barely staying awake long enough to eat, use the toilet, and then take another dose of Vicodin before conking back out. Two weeks later, though, I was fine. Except for this one weird little thing.

I didn’t have drains to deal with, which was great, but on the other hand I developed a seroma that dehisced. Those are technical terms for something that wasn’t painful, but it was disturbing, and it was DISGUSTING: the left half of my chest developed a hole that slowly got wider and constantly leaked large amounts of bright orange fluid. Two months post-op, it was only getting worse, so I went in for a revision. Now I have a weird concave section in my left pec and the nipple on that side is weird because it had to be grafted back on a second time. I could fix the concave part by developing my pec muscles, but who has time (and spoons, and equipment) to work out? Anyway I don’t mind the weirdness much. I could be happier with it, but at least I don’t have dog tags on the sides.

BOTTOM SURGERY, PART 1

I was scheduled to have phalloplasty in December 2018. I needed to lose 50 lbs and have a total hysterectomy before then, but I couldn’t find a trans-friendly surgeon for that in Houston. I lost my job and my insurance in July 2018 and couldn’t find another one that actually paid or had benefits in time, so I had to cancel it. Ironically, by the date I’d had scheduled, I’d lost 70 lbs, mostly due to starvation because I couldn’t afford food. Fun times.

HYSTERECTOMY

Once I moved back to Austin and got a solid job, rescheduled my bottom surgery with Dr Crane; there would be an 18-month wait. I actually I managed to find a trans-friendly OB/GYN & obstetric surgeon in my area who sees a LOT of trans patients. Getting scheduled for the hysto was as easy as telling her I’m trans and scheduled for bottom surgery, plus both my mom and her sister had had ovarian and uterine cancers.

I did NOT need to get new letters for this surgery. I’m pretty sure that my OB/GYN entered the reason for it for insurance purposes as being a cancer prevention thing, which is not at all untrue. I also asked her if there was any way I could see my parts that were being extracted, because part of me just really wanted visual confirmation that they were gone, and she agreed. Dr. J. Mushtaler in Austin is EXCELLENT.

I had to pay a little over $1600 up front for my deductible ($500) & out of pocket costs (80% coinsurance up to $2500/yr); YMMV. Always plan on having to pay a couple hundred dollars more than what your calculations suggest. My insurance was billed I think $16k for this one, but that price can vary wildly.

This one came with an overnight hospital stay. There were two delightful nurses watching over me, gently making fun of how clumsy I was when I woke up basically once an hour every hour to piss like a racehorse. Like 750-800 mL at a time. It was crazy, they were pumping me full of so much fluid and boy did it show. They did that to make sure that I could pee properly: the uterus rests right on top of the bladder, so removing it can sometimes cause issues with urination like incontinence. Two and a half years later I still pee like…I’d guess 8-12 times a day. Then again I also drink 3-5 liters of water a day, so I’m sure that has a lot to do with it too, but even before I really started hydrating well I needed to pee a lot. I asked my mom and one of my BFFs, both of whom had hysterectomies before me, if they‘d found they had to pee all the time afterward, and they said yeah.

At my post-op checkup, Dr Mustaler handed me a glossy printout that showed laproscopic photos of both ovaries before removal and my uterus post-removal. I kinda want to get it framed. I can only describe my liver as “cute”.

Recovery was longer, I think 4 weeks? And I spent most of it sitting in a recliner with an ice back on my belly. I was sore a lot, and I couldn’t move quickly or bend over Or Else, but it wasn’t that bad. I watched (and slept through) A LOT of TV.

About a month later I started having what I can only describe as mild hot flashes, because my estrogen levels basically bottomed out due to the removal of my ovaries. I am pretty sure that these were mild because a) I’ve been on testosterone and b) folks who’ve been through normal menopause AND my non-binary friend who had a hysto but isn’t on T make them sound a lot worse than what I had. They didn’t last long, either in individual duration or in the span of time when I was having them. They were just a mild inconvenience that dropped off after like I think three months.

I swore out loud, at age 6, that I was never having babies. I haven’t reconsidered for a microsecond. The peace of mind that comes from knowing that, not only am I forevermore spared the Hell of menstruation, but I will NEVER, EVER have to worry about an unwanted pregancy.

BOTTOM SURGERY, PART 2

This one…this one has cost me.

The first piece of preparation was laser hair removal. It cost $100/session every 3 months, up until Dr. Crane’s office started offering it at $30/session for their patients so you better believe I switched to them. I needed this because with radial flap phalloplasty, the lower ~half of one forearm gets skinned and used to form the neophallus, along with a length of the radial nerve, and you’re not gonna want a hairy dick. Laser changed my terminal hairs to vellus ones after like two sessions, but it’s growing back, and frankly I wish I’d gotten electrolysis instead because that‘s better at permanently removing hairs. Eventually I’m gonna need laser done on my dick now, sigh. Oh well. But yeah, if you get phalloplasty, start laser or electrolysis at least a year in advance.

I spent most of 2021 worrying my head off that my surgery would get cancelled because I’d gained so much weight back even though Dr. Crane hadn’t given me a BMI goal this time. As phone-averse as I am, it just didn’t occur to me to…you know…call and ask. When I finally did, they said no, they wouldn’t cancel it on me, and a mountain rolled off my shoulders.

However, if you use nicotine products, you DO need to quit as early as you can, because nicotine is a HUGE retardant factor to healing as it restricts blood flow, and after a graft, blood flow is VITAL. You can literally lose your new dick if you smoke or vape etc post-op. Deal with the cravings.

Pre-op, I was told to stop taking T, Vyvanse, and my OTC supplements. What all you get told to stop taking will depend on, well, what you’re taking at the time.

I did have to get new WPATH letters for this surgery, since it’d been more than a year since the originals were written. I got one from my psychiatrist and another I think from Planned Parenthood.

I found out at my pre-op appointment when I went in to pay the $2404 to the hospital, get checked in, etc, that Dr. Crane wanted to use an artificial skin to replace what would be taken from my forearm instead of natural skin from my thigh. Problem was, insurance wouldn’t pay for it and it cost six thousand dollars, which I did not REMOTELY have (in fact I had exactly $2400 in savings and…not much in checking, at the time). I brought it up with him and he was like “No problem, I’ll call the hospital and tell them to cancel that part,” which he did then and there, and that was that. I also got an EKG and learned that my heart is functioning normally, which was GREAT to hear as a 38yo fat guy.

I spent five days in the hospital post-op. I just remember being tired, sore, bored, and always frustrated with the OSAT monitor on my finger, and having trouble eating. There was something about them having to use warfarin during surgery and then ease me off it that I wasn’t cogent enough to understand, but that certainly could have gone worse.

Recovery was the pits. I scheduled myself 11 weeks off work and that was definitely the right decision, at least in terms of physical recovery, but oh gods have my finances suffered for it (more on that later). Once again I spent most of my time asleep or dozing, trying to stay ahead of the pain. My genitals and arm weren’t the worst part. The worst part was, without a shadow of a doubt, the catheter.

It was a suprapubic balloon catheter, which means that they made a hole from my lower belly directly into my bladder and ran a tube through it. If/when you have one, stay on top of the bladder spasm medication they give you. It was awful. Increasingly as I spent more and more time awake, the feeling of needing to pee urgently never went away. There were many, many times I’d go use the toilet, barely get anything out, wash my hands, come back out, sit down, and then get right back up to do it again within like three minutes.

The worst of it was the day before the cath was removed, three weeks in. I was told to stop taking the bladder spasm meds, and my opioids ran out the same day because I was only given I think 20 pills. That, uh. That was a 10 on the pain scale. I couldn’t move, couldn’t think, could barely breathe, all I could do was lie there holding back tears and wishing for death. I had never imagined my fucking bladder of all things would put me in such a state of pure abjection. The next day they took it out, which I was conscious and unmedicated for. The sensation was…oh boy it was weird. It was so weird. It didn’t hurt per se—in fact the relief was so instantaneous it almost felt ecstatic—but the feeling of a long tube with a collapsible balloon going FWOOP! out of an unnatural hole in my body was one to remember.

Recovery was a LOT less painful after that horrible cath was removed, but it got…messier. I was eager to start learning to pee standing up and let’s just say I did a lot of pants changes and toilet-cleaning, and gained a newfound appreciation for what parents go through when potty training AMAB children. I also discovered that I had not one, but TWO fistulae. Great.

A fistula is a tunnel in the flesh that goes from the urethra all the way to the outside of the body. This is THE most common side complication of phalloplasty (to the tune of 40%), so it wasn’t surprising, but it has definitely been frustrating. I told my RN about it and she said they usually heal on their own but if it’s still there in 6 months they’d correct it surgically. Sure enough, the bigger one closed right up on its own, but the smaller one right at the base is taking its sweet fucking time about it, so I have to go full cartoon frog and drop my pants to my ankles when I piss because if I lift my dick so as to pee with just my fly open I’ll get urine all over my underwear and probably my pants too. OFW.

The two biggest pieces of advice I got re: fistula healing were 1) keep your junk clean & dry and 2) spend time lying down naked with your legs open as much as you can.

Another frustrating aspect of recovery was that I couldn’t masturbate for almost three solid months, but that didn’t stop me from WANTING to. The upshot is that once I finally found that I could try it without hurting myself, I can get off in like 2-3 minutes flat if I’m lucky/keyed up enough—in comparison to how it took 45+ minutes pre-op. I’m still learning what works and what doesn’t, but when it works, oh BOY does it WORK.

Aside from that one day of Hell before the cath was removed, the biggest downside to this has been the financial one. The surgery itself took every cent of my savings. That’s fine, this is what I’d been saving for. But my income has been the biggest thing.

Short Term Disability Leave insurance, or STDL, pays nothing for the first 7-12 days of leave and then 60% of your normal wage/salary, not including overtime. At my previous corporate job, the place I worked at when I had top surgery, the company paid the missing 40%. At my current company, a few months before surgery I asked around and found a coworker who had recently been on STDL for several months. She said that this company also did that for her, and that she didn’t have to request it or anything, it just happened.

Fast forward a few weeks after surgery. I’m waiting for my STDL pay to come in. It doesn’t. I check their website and find out they don’t have my direct deposit information, because they never prompted me for it in any way (including any of the times I emailed or called them) other than a link inside their website on one specific page For payouts. And it was gonna take 4 weeks to process. And no, they said they couldn’t speed that up. I actually ended up having to submit my info twice and email them again to get it to go through. By then I find out they mailed me a physical check…on the 30th. So I had to wait 10 days for that to come in, and then two more days for the deposit to hit my account, and by then my rent was overdue for almost two solid weeks.

I also noticed that what I was getting was…A LOT less than what I usually made, even accounting for getting weekly pay instead of semi-monthly. I emailed payroll about it, and they had to ask around, and THEN, A MONTH AFTER SURGERY, I found out that NO, my company pays NONE of the missing 40% now. AWESOME. So get that info in advance, in writing, well before your surgery so you can predict how hard you’re going to have to save up!

Because it gets worse! For the end of August, all of September, and all of October, I made 60% of my regular income. I don’t make much as it is so that was horrible, and I was only able to get by on the priceless generosity of the friends I stayed with for the first 3 weeks. I went back to work November 18th, so I was going to have 60% from STDL for the first half of the month and my regular pay after that…except at my job, our paychecks come in twice a month with a full pay cycle offset, so between the 17th of November and the 13th of December, I had ZERO INCOME beyond what I could scrape in from Etsy, meaning that not only did I make a mere 30% of my normal income for that month, but I had to spend 100% of my paycheck for Dec 13 on overdue rent and bills, leaving nothing but my overdraft allowance for food, gas, and moving supplies. AWESOME.

But you know what? With the exception of the nauseated rage I still feel over fictional depictions of trans men in erotica and lingering resentment that my penis doesn’t work the same way an AMAB person’s does, my bottom dysphoria is fucking GONE. And THAT is worth 100% of the suffering and expense.

So, advice on bottom surgery: plan as far ahead as you possibly can. You’ll need laser surgery, you might need to lose weight and/or quit nicotine, you need to know if your employer pays the missing 40% STDL doesn’t pay, you need to save up probably several thousand dollars for hospital fees and post-op expenses, and you will need someone to drive you around because you ain’t sitting down comfortably anytime soon.

Oh also, your forearm will look like pastrami for a few weeks. Follow care instructions religiously. Move your hand around in every direction as often as you can. Do carpal tunnel type exercises. Go to physical therapy for it if you can. The longer it stays stiff, the stiffer it will stay. I’ve regained almost all my mobility back in my left hand by now, four months post-op, but I don’t think I’ll ever be able to touch my thumb to my forearm again. :( Oh well, small price to pay.

BOTTOM SURGERY, PART 3

There is one thing they typically DON’T due during the phalloplasty/scrotoplasty/vaginectomy surgery: your implants! These are optional but I for one am looking forward to getting them. One set of implants will be a set of silicone testicles. That means your scrotum will just be an empty sac for the first few months post-op. The other is an erectile implant that will allow you to more easily have sex as the penetrating partner. There are two kinds of these, with a few subtypes each: a flexible rod that you can pose manually, and an inflatable rod with a tiny little pump that goes into the scrotum. I don’t know which kind I’m getting yet. I don’t even have a date set for all that, but it’s typically done 6-9 months post-op, because they want you to be fully healed before going back in. That surgery should only have a 1- to 2-week recovery time. I’ve slept with a cis guy who has the pump kind and it’s pretty effective!

FINAL THOUGHTS

Gender identity is an incredibly varied and personal thing. My surgeon, and many other gender affirmation surgeons, believe that surgical options should be just as varied. If you like having a vagina but really want a penis, there are options for that—and not just metoidioplasty and Centurion, you can get phallo too. If you want your nipples tattooed on later or if you don’t want them at all when you get top surgery, you can do that. When making decisions for what kind of outcomes you want, talk to your surgeon about what’s possible, and if they’re worth their salt, they’ll find a way to come up with a transition path that’s tailored to your needs.

Okay, time to post this and hope Tumblr doesn’t eat it. If it does I might do something ill-advised to my iPad.