#natural hormone replacement therapy

[nourishnest]

A Ray of Hope for Dementia Sufferers: How Hormone Replacement Therapy Helps

Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are among the greatest diseases that affect a huge population in the world. These conditions not only result in the cases of amnesia and mental degradation; however, they largely influence person’s life quality. These diseases have bothered researchers for many years as researchers have searched for ways either preventing or resisting them. HRT as a ray of hope recently. This is a commonly prescribed drug that helps with the symptoms of menopause. Studies suggest it could reduce dementia incidence in postmenopausal women. This blog post aims to discuss the recent studies concerning HRT as a solution for people with Alzheimer’s illness and dementia.

Understanding Dementia

Dementia is a distressing disorder that afflicts a large number of individuals across the globe, leading to forgetfulness and mental impairment. Although it is normally linked with aging, it may be found in young people as well. Dementia is not an illness but the generic name for various forms of senile deterioration of mental functions. although there might be some disagreements concerning what really causes dementia, a number of risk factors such as aging, genetic disposition, and some other specific diseases have been identified. Briefly, we will explain what dementia is all about, its symptoms, as well as how it relates to people with menopausal symptoms.

The Connection Between Hormones and Brain Health

These hormones are vital to brain function and maintenance. Some hormonal changes, especially at the time of menopause, may affect brain function and cognitive skills. When women go for their last period during menopause, the production of estrogens is reduced thus causing hot flashes, irritability and insomnia. However, people rarely associate such changes in hormone levels with poor memory or difficulty paying attention. The evidence also suggests that hormones might protect the mental function as the hormone levels decrease during postmenopause when such symptoms develop. It is extremely important in considering possible advantages of hormone therapy for demented patients.

Unveiling the Power of Hormone Replacement Therapy

As we delve deeper into the potential benefits of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for dementia sufferers, we begin to unveil the power of this treatment. HRT, typically used to alleviate menopausal symptoms, has shown promising results in reducing the risk of developing dementia in postmenopausal women. By replenishing hormone levels that decline during menopause, HRT may help combat the cognitive decline associated with dementia. The connection between hormonal fluctuations and cognitive abilities is a fascinating area of research, and the potential of HRT to improve the lives of those experiencing menopausal symptoms is truly remarkable.

Evidence-based Findings on Hormone Replacement Therapy Reducing Dementia Risk

Research has shown compelling evidence for the potential of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in reducing the risk of developing dementia. Numerous studies have demonstrated that postmenopausal women who undergo HRT have a lower incidence of dementia compared to those who do not receive hormone therapy. These findings provide hope for dementia sufferers, as HRT may not only alleviate menopausal symptoms but also protect against cognitive decline. While further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind this correlation, the evidence suggests that HRT could be a valuable tool in the fight against dementia.

Pros and Cons of Hormone Replacement Therapy

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has shown promising results in reducing the risk of developing dementia. However, it is important to weigh the pros and cons before considering this treatment option. On one hand, HRT can alleviate menopausal symptoms and potentially protect against cognitive decline. On the other hand, there are risks associated with HRT, such as an increased risk of certain types of cancer. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if the benefits outweigh the risks for each individual. It is important to consider all aspects before making a decision about HRT as a treatment for dementia.

Future Implications: A World Free of Dementia

As we continue to uncover the potential benefits of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in reducing the risk of dementia, we can't help but envision a world free of this debilitating condition. Imagine a future where individuals no longer have to suffer from the devastating effects of Alzheimer's disease and dementia. HRT could potentially play a crucial role in making this dream a reality. While there is still much research to be done, the hope and optimism surrounding HRT are undeniable. With continued advancements and a deeper understanding of the connection between hormones and brain health, we may be one step closer to a world without dementia.

[dynamichealthinsights]

Red Clover: A Natural Ally for Navigating the Menopausal Journey

Menopause, that inevitable chapter in every woman’s life, often ushers in a wave of physical and emotional changes that can feel like navigating a stormy sea. Hot flashes that leave you drenched in sweat, sleepless nights that leave you feeling foggy, mood swings that feel like an emotional rollercoaster – these are just a few of the challenges that menopausal women face. While hormone…

[imstillalexcomic]

I was planning on writing a long post about all this, but even though coming out as trans has been a 24 year process and there's been ample time to work on what to say, I'm having trouble finding the right words.

While I knew there was something going on with me since I was about 12 or 13, it took time to realize what it was.

It then took more time to get over my denial.

Then even more time to come out to my best friend in 2017.

Then *even* more time to finally decide to start hormone replacement therapy this year.

Since starting HRT, I've been reaching out to folks from all stages in my life to tell them in person. It's been a lovely experience so far and everyone has been so kind and accepting and understanding and I'm truly fortunate and honored that I've somehow managed to have been surrounded by so many wonderful people.

There are many more that I wanted to reach out to, but I'm finally ready to come out publicly, so I'm ripping the bandaid off now.

Naturally, I'm going to be silly about it and do it with a comic.

I haven't really been drawing since Corpse Run ended, but I've had the itch to get back into it and now that I have a new topic to explore I think I finally have the passion to match the desire.

No set schedule like Corpse Run had, but there's going to be some trans comics from time to time, general life stuff... maybe some video games too because why not.

Given current events, I think visibility is more important than ever. Being seen and potentially giving other folks who might be closeted as I was an opportunity to explore their own relationship with themselves has value and I'm excited to make this next chapter of my life something worthwhile beyond my own happiness.

Being trans is ok. Not being trans is ok. Being whatever it is you were born as is ok.

The circumstances of your birth are nothing to be ashamed of, you are valid and always will be.

I guess I found some words after all. I hope they're the right ones.

[thecaffeinatedwitch]

The Science Behind the Law of Assumption: Is It Backed by Psychology?

The Law of Assumption sounds almost magical, doesn’t it? Think it, assume it’s yours, and poof—your desires come to life. But let’s bring it down to earth for a moment: is there any real science behind this idea? Spoiler alert: yes, there is. While it’s not wrapped in cosmic glitter, psychology offers some solid evidence for how changing your assumptions can genuinely transform your reality.

So, let’s dive into the psychological nuts and bolts behind the Law of Assumption—and maybe crack a smile along the way.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A Fancy Way of Saying “Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Life”

CBT is a superstar in the psychology world. At its core, it’s based on the idea that your thoughts shape your feelings and actions. Sound familiar? It’s essentially the Law of Assumption in a lab coat.

Here’s how it works:

Negative Thought Loop: You think, “I’ll never be good at this,” which makes you feel anxious and unmotivated. Naturally, you avoid the task, and voilà—you prove your own assumption right.

Positive Thought Shift: In CBT, you challenge that belief: “What if I can do this?” That little mental shift changes your actions and eventually your results.

The Law of Assumption takes this principle a step further by saying, “Don’t just question your limiting beliefs—replace them entirely with assumptions of success.”

Example: Instead of “What if I could be confident?” assume, “I am confident.” Yes, it might feel awkward at first, but just like a new pair of shoes, it’ll feel natural the more you wear it.

The Placebo Effect: Proof That Belief Changes Reality

Doctors have known for ages that the placebo effect is real—and honestly, kind of mind-blowing. If you believe a sugar pill is medicine, your body can actually heal as if you’ve taken the real thing.

Think about that for a second. Your belief literally changes your body’s chemistry. Now apply that same concept to your life: if you assume success, love, or abundance is already yours, your brain and body start working in ways that align with that belief.

The Science-y Bit: Your brain releases neurotransmitters and hormones based on your thoughts. Assume positivity, and your brain produces feel-good chemicals like dopamine. That positivity influences your actions, which influences your outcomes. Boom—belief becomes reality.

Example: Assume you’re a charismatic speaker. Your confidence increases, and you speak with ease. People respond positively, reinforcing your assumption. Suddenly, you are that charismatic speaker.

Neuroplasticity: Your Brain, the Ultimate Shape-Shifter

Neuroplasticity is your brain’s ability to rewire itself based on repeated thoughts and experiences. It’s like Play-Doh—but, you know, way more sophisticated.

When you consistently affirm a new assumption, like “I am successful,” your brain builds neural pathways to support that belief. The more you repeat it, the stronger those pathways become, until it’s your brain’s default setting.

Think of it like this:

Repeating “I am successful” is like carving a trail in the woods.

At first, it’s slow-going, and you have to hack through some underbrush (a.k.a. your old limiting beliefs).

But the more you walk that path, the clearer and easier it gets. Eventually, it’s the brain equivalent of a six-lane highway.

Changing Beliefs = Changing Behavior = Changing Reality

Here’s where the science and the Law of Assumption truly align. When you change your internal beliefs, you naturally start to act differently. Those actions create new opportunities, relationships, and results in your life.

Example: If you assume, “I am deserving of love,” you’re more likely to set boundaries, seek healthy relationships, and radiate confidence. These behaviors attract the kind of love you’ve been looking for, and—voilà—you’ve manifested it.

But What About the Doubters?

Now, I hear you: “This sounds a bit too good to be true.” Fair enough. Change doesn’t happen overnight, and you can’t just sprinkle affirmations on your problems like fairy dust. The magic lies in consistency and persistence.

Think of it like working out: you don’t hit the gym once and wake up with six-pack abs. (If only, right?) You repeat the process until the results show. The same goes for your mindset.

So, The Law of Assumption isn’t just fluffy self-help jargon—it’s rooted in solid psychological principles like CBT, the placebo effect, and neuroplasticity. Sure, it might feel a little weird to assume you’re a millionaire when your bank account says otherwise. But science backs you up: your thoughts shape your reality, and with practice, your brain will believe what you tell it.

So, go ahead. Assume you’re living your best life. And if anyone raises an eyebrow, just smile and say, “It’s science.”

[hellyeahscarleteen]

"Here’s the cool thing about blockers: they let you take a developmental time out⁠. While on blockers, you can get to know your body and get more comfortable in yourself as you decide which steps to take next. At any time, you can go off blockers, and allow your body to progress through puberty. You can also opt to switch from blockers to hormone replacement therapy (sometimes called “cross-sex⁠ hormones,” a terminology I don’t favor because, among other reasons, all you’re doing is replacing the hormones your body doesn’t produce naturally). Once you switch to HRT, you’ll start going through puberty.

Like social transition, hormone blockers are fully reversible. A lot of adults seem to think that they know all about trans kids, and that trans kids will experience “regret” later. They are wrong. Researchers at Northwestern University conducted an extensive research review looking at trans kids and hormone blockers, and they found that early intervention is tremendously beneficial for trans youth. Plus, one tremendous advantage of blockers is that you don’t have to go through costly and frustrating transition procedures like top surgery⁠, laser therapy, and so forth later on."

s. e. smith, Trans Summer School: The Magic of Hormones!

[pymander-real-prosthesis]

BOTTOM GROWTH

Comprehensive Overview on FTM Bottom Growth

FTM Bottom Growth

FTM bottom growth refers to the physiological transformation where clitoral and labial tissues enlarge and adopt a scrotum-like configuration under the influence of testosterone hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in transgender men. Testosterone promotes growth in the clitoris and labia majora, leading to size increase and structural changes resembling a scrotum. This process typically begins within weeks to months of starting HRT and continues over several years.

Notably, hormone therapy is not universally chosen among transmasculine individuals, with some opting for alternative genital surgeries. The rate and extent of bottom growth vary significantly due to factors such as age, genetics, and testosterone dosage.

Experiencing FTM Bottom Growth

FTM bottom growth represents a significant aspect of physical transition for transgender men, requiring a realistic understanding of its developmental course. Initial stages of HRT may entail mild growth and heightened sensitivity in the clitoral area, accompanied by sensations like tingling or discomfort. As treatment progresses, further changes may include increased clitoral girth, length, and reduced vaginal lubrication.

Over time, these changes intensify with ongoing reshaping of the labia majora into a flatter contour and continued clitoral enlargement. Variability in the pace and magnitude of these transformations underscores the individualized nature of hormone-induced bottom growth among those undergoing HRT.

Self-Care During FTM Bottom Growth

Maintaining self-care practices is crucial for overall well-being and satisfaction during FTM bottom growth:

Hygiene Practices: Ensure meticulous hygiene to prevent infections by using gentle soap and lukewarm water for genital cleansing, avoiding harsh chemicals or scented products.

Safe Sexual Practices: Employ barrier methods consistently during sexual activity to minimize the risk of STIs, including condoms and dental dams.

Exploration of Sensation: Embrace evolving genital sensations by experimenting with different forms of stimulation to discover what feels pleasurable and fulfilling.

Effective Communication: Foster open communication with sexual partners about evolving needs, preferences, and boundaries during this transition phase to enhance mutual understanding and satisfaction.

By prioritizing these aspects of self-care, individuals navigating FTM bottom growth can foster a supportive and empowered approach to their physical transition journey.

FTM Bottom Growth and Stimulation with Pymander Packers

Questions often arise regarding pleasure and usability of Pymander Packers' stimulating mouths:

Inclusive Pleasure: Our products are designed to maximize pleasure for users of any body type, regardless of their hormone therapy status.

Customization: We recommend exploring our diverse range of products, including rods with various mouthpieces, to tailor your experience and find what suits your preferences best.

Personal Satisfaction: Our goal is to provide inclusive and effective solutions that cater to the diverse needs of all customers, ensuring a positive and fulfilling experience with our stimulating products.

Preventing Bottom Growth

For transgender men wishing to manage or slow down bottom growth during hormone therapy:

Adjust Testosterone Dosage: Consult with healthcare providers about potentially lowering testosterone levels to mitigate the conversion to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which drives clitoral enlargement and other masculinizing effects.

Dutasteride/Finasteride: These medications can block the conversion of testosterone to DHT but may cause side effects like menstrual return and reduced body hair growth. Discuss benefits and risks with healthcare providers for informed decision-making.

Enhancing Bottom Growth

For those seeking to enhance bottom growth under hormone therapy:

Clitoral Pump: Safely increase clitoral size and sensitivity using non-medical suction devices, particularly effective post-HRT initiation.

Usage Tips: Follow manufacturer guidelines rigorously to avoid discomfort or injury, gradually increasing suction and using appropriate lubrication for smooth operation.

DHT Cream: Topical application of synthetic testosterone can promote genital growth and secondary sexual characteristics development, though individual responses vary.

Considerations

Individual Variability: Responses to hormone therapy and enhancement methods differ among individuals.

Consultation: Seek guidance from healthcare providers specializing in transgender healthcare to personalize interventions aligned with individual needs and goals.

[batmanisagatewaydrug]

Hi hi, gendery sex question here.

Me and my partner are afab, and basically despite her efforts, sex hasnt felt like much for me. But I love being the giving partner, and for a while now have thought Id enjoy sex with her if I had a penis. Imagining that sensation instead is exciting. I consider myself nonbinary. Im mostly wondering if your expert opinion thinks my low success at feeling much actual physical pleasure might be caused by feeling alienated from my body in this maybe dysphoric way. Or is there's another reason I should consider why sex with my partner doesnt work great for me. Masturbation goes a little better and I can actually finish, but not great and only upside down and without looking at my body. Generally high drive with low success has been leaving me frustrated. Do I need to think about phalloplasty?? That's kind of A Lot especially since Ive never considered myself transmasc per se.

Also thanks. Your posts and attitude mean a lot to me as someone who had to figure out a lot of shit on my own as a kid and subsequently became the defacto Sex Knower for a lot of friends to go to with questions. Ive seen how much this stuff helps people feel less broken. You're doing amazing. 💚

hi anon,

I certainly can't put a name on your gender identity for you, but what I can tell you is that it's VERY common for people with some kind of dysphoria to feel alienated or distant from sex because the highly intimate nature of sex and the very gendered assumptions still tied to many people's genitalia. many people who have transitioned in some way find that sex becomes MUCH for fun and comfortable afterwards, regardless of whether they have surgery or hormone replacement therapy - sometimes, just being out and perceived differently by partners can be enough.

if you haven't already, it may be helpful to try sex with a strap on. it's much less permanent and expensive than phalloplasty, and can give you a sense of whether you like the sensation of having sex that way. if you enjoy that, you may also want to try out a packer to see whether or not you enjoy the sensation of having a penis outside of a sexual context. no need to commit hard to anything right away; you have all the room in the world to experiment.

I'd also add, gently, that wanting a penis doesn't have to make you transmasculine if that's not how you want to understand it. if we believe that genitals are not gendered, then wanting or having a penis doesn't have to say anything about you except that you want a dick. parts is just parts.

[nerdygaymormon]

But why do you support men competing against women? It doesn't make sense

I'm assuming this is referencing trans people because otherwise I have no idea what the context is for the question.

How many national and international titles have been won by trans athletes? Lia Thomas is the first trans woman to win an NCAA Division I national championship in any sport. Laurel Hubbard was the first trans woman to qualify for the Olympics and she finished in last place in weightlifting during the Tokyo Olympics (technically, she got a “did not finish” after failing to lift the starting weight).

This seems like much ado about nothing.

Given recent testimony that there's fewer than 10 collegiate athletes in the United States who are trans, it's not difficult to surmise there's fewer than 100 total in the US who compete at any level.

The standard for trans women athletes has been to be on T-blockers for a year before they compete because the evidence shows that trans women's performance showed no athletic advantage after one year of testosterone suppression. The evidence is limited and more research is needed, and perhaps the time needed on before competing should be adjusted, but this can be figured out.

—————————

I often hear people use the idea that we need to be "fair." If that's the standard, then there is absolutely no reason in grade school to ban trans girls from playing on girls’ teams and trans boys playing on boys’ teams. An 8-year-old trans girl does not have an advantage over an 8-year-old cis girl in any sport.

A 14-year-old trans girl who has been on puberty blockers does not have an advantage over other 14-year-old girls. A 25-year-old trans woman who took puberty blockers and then began hormone replacement therapy later in her teens does not have an advantage over other 25-year-old women in any sport.

If fairness is the point, then none of this should be controversial, unless the point is to make trans people be seen as "other" and some sort of outcast.

If we're wanting to ban athletes with an unfair competitive advantage, then we should ban rich children from all sports due to them getting top-notch equipment, private coaches, and travel leagues which are beyond the budgets of most people. That's just not natural or fair.

—————————

I'm sure you're asking, "How about athletes who went through puberty before being able to transition?"

These trans, nonbinary, and intersex athletes begin at a different place from their cis peers, but they go through a lot before they qualify to compete as women. As I said at above, more study is needed but evidence suggests it is possible to level the playing field when an athlete transitions.

—————————

The fact that you asked about "men" competing against "women" leads me to believe you don't respect trans people, probably don't even know any and don't know their stories, and you also don't know the science.

If a compromise were offered that trans women who've gone through a testosterone-driven puberty would be forbidden from competing in college, Olympic, and professional sports, and in exchange they get full social and legal protections in education, employment, housing, public accommodations, health care, and so on, would you accept this? Or is this more than just about "fairness" in women's sports?

Trans people are human beings. Can't we have kindness, mercy, and compassion for our fellow human beings? Why so much disrespect? Why do you think you know them better than they know themselves? Just because you're unfamiliar with trans people and the idea of them makes you uncomfortable doesn't mean they shouldn't get to live with dignity.

[answersfromzestual]

What type of testerone hormone replacement therapy is for you? - Article Comparing T-gel,Cream and Injections.

The two of the most debated forms of testerone hormone therapy are the cream ( T gel) and the injection method. This article goes on in depth on these two methods. It compares their positives and negatives to provide a very in depth perspective so you can make an informed decision on the method that is right for you.

THRT gel or creams a topical (rubbed on your skin) application that contains synthesized testosterone. It's typically formulated with carriers that ensure the optimal absorption of the formula through the skin. The exact compounds vary from brand to brand however the primary ingredient is always testosterone. Once applied onto the skin, the testosterone in the cream is gradually absorbed into the bloodstream. This process mimics your body's natural rhythm of testosterone release, also providing a steady level throughout the day.

THRT injections usually contain testosterone cypionate, testosterone enanthate, or testosterone propionate suspended in an oil. These formulations are designed for intramuscular injection, ensuring that the testosterone is slowly released into the bloodstream over a period of time (can range from one to a few weeks apart) These injections require a prescription in Canada and the US, but can also be available at clinics both online and offline. They also may require you to need to make doctor's visits to either do your injection or teach you how (depending on what your health care provider says they want to do). Some people can learn to inject themselves, others may not feel comfortable and can go to their doctor or a clinic to receive your shot. Make sure you have been properly instructed by a professional health care provider prior to doing your own injections.

IS T Gel and T Cream the same?

Differences between the cream and the gel options are the thickness and potency of the actual product . They are both transdermal methods (using the skin to get to the bloodstream) of using testosterone and are very similar in how they are used and function and the are usually a used in a smaller area so less chance of transfer and more equal levels. Creams are becoming a more stable option over the gel. This is a decision you and your doctor should make as to which option is better, side effects can differ slightly from brand to brand.

This is a comparison chart I found to help you make an informed decision on which style of application is best for you.

The images are in order of left to right

Importance of Individualized Treatment: No single THRT method suits everyone. Factors like age, lifestyle, medical history, and personal preferences play a significant role in the best choice.

Factors to Consider: Consider your daily routine, if you are comfortable with injections, the dosage, and potential side effects.

Consulting with Healthcare Professionals: Before deciding on any method, it is very important to discuss options with your/a healthcare provider familiar with testosterone therapies. This can also include an endocrinologist.

Important: remember more is not better! Taking a larger dose than you are instructed to can cause adverse side effects such as irritability, mood swings, changes in libido, and even hair loss.

Here is the source I used for images

Mayo Clinic Source

Source 3

Other sources include my experiences, and advice given to me by my family physician and endocrinologist

[fireheartedpup]

Okay. So. Ashwaganda.

I lost the post about the supplement from a troll company that was marketing it as hormone replacement therapy. The doses were high enough to send you into serotonin syndrome, and it doesn't replace estrogen. It encourages your body to make the hormones it's already making.

This was in 2023, and the website quickly vanished after backlash.

The thing is, ashwaganda is a mood stabilizer. I'm wondering if it's possible to feel better before the serotonin syndrome. Is the dosage high enough that you feel funny immediately, or does it seem like life is so good that this miracle pill couldn't possibly be bad for you?

Once it starts, it sounds like torture. I'm just wondering about the lead up. The poster who was quoted on that post said that ashwaganda taken in that dosage could cause it in "as little as a month," so what does the lead up feel like?

I don't take medication, so I haven't worried too much about interactions. That said, it's good to know that it can conflict with medications for blood pressure, thyroid, sleep, immunosuppression, and diabetes.

This is mostly because it has similar effects--so again, too much can tip you over from "this helps" to "this is a threat to my safety."

There are other natural things that raise serotonin levels, like ginkgo, and I thought they were mentioned in one of links I included but I can find the paragraph I'm thinking of.

...this could be due to the fact that ginseng can also raise serotonin levels, and I might have misremembered it.

Probiotics, vitamin D, and fish oil can also raise serotonin, as can tryptophan and exercise. Rhodiola is another adaptogen that can help with things like ADHD, and St. John's Wort is also on that list.

There's a lot. I actually left out green tea and turmeric. Oh, and 5-htp. That one I'm careful with. It makes me feel drugged.

Coffee and artificial sweeteners can decrease serotonin, so I'm not terribly bothered. If it's not consumed in high doses or alongside something it shouldn't be combined with, it should be okay.

I'm also not consistent with anything, and in the case of the supplements where it's better to take breaks instead of simply continuing to take them every single day for a long period of time, this works for me.

The thing that made me take a second look at adaptogens in general is that my period is almost a week late.

Remember how it adjusts your hormones? Yeah, a lot of people have this reaction--and it can make your period lighter. I'm mostly finding anecdotes from reddit, but there is a study about it helping with perimenopause.

My periods have never been super consistent. I have a rough idea of when they're going to come, but the cycle isn't exact. So this doesn't bother me a ton, but it's enough for some people to want to switch to an alternative method of controlling things like anxiety.

I'm already questioning whether my hormones are out of whack or not, so that's part of it.

I just think it's interesting. "Natural alternatives" are marketed as safer, without side effects. My experience has been that no matter what you do, you're throwing spaghetti at a wall to see what sticks--and you still need to look up everything you take to see if it's going to interact with anything else.

It would be nice if going to a doctor fixed this problem. Unfortunately, I've read too many stories about patients having to look things up for themselves, even after going to doctor after doctor.

It's like the pegboard with red string.

Anyway. My takeaway is still that what will fix your problems is appropriate treatment for your body. Unfortunately, this is different for everyone, and pretty much requires you to make a lifelong study of what to take and what the side effects are--no matter if you're taking supplements or drugs.

I'm still on the adaptogen train because I don't have to beg a doctor for help or make an appointment or beg a doctor to listen to me when it turns out that I need a change in my treatment plan or get registered as "really, she needs this" in order to get the thing that will help me.

I'm just. You know. Wondering. About what this is going to mean for my period going forward.

(And I'm going to have to research every single other thing I'm taking to see what the crossovers are.)

IMPORTANT: Ashwaganda can cause spontaneous abortion. Do not listen to anyone who says that adaptogens are safe to take during pregnancy. CHECK FIRST.

[vy-canis-melodis]

the following is a blog post, written by tanja, in the Bird HRT universe:

UPDATE and a cancelled article!

Hi all, it's been a long time since my last blog post. Here's the deal; I was in hospital. Long story short, some things went pretty wrong, and here I am, having to deal with a huge backwards step in progress then having had to retrace those steps with additional gooey complications and therapy.

Anyway, here's a journalistic article I was pretty close to finishing and submitting to actual newspapers before everything went down and I had to cancel it.

Rejecting Humanity - Or, How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Just Be Myself

As I write this, I'm sitting in the waiting room of a Hospital cross Research Laboratory in London. By the time you're reading this, I'll have been on my treatment journey for over a year. What treatment, you ask? Well, it's Humanity Removal Therapy. One year ago, I undertook a radical new procedure which slowly transforms you from human to another form. Perhaps you've seen strange creatures out and about; a snow leopard at the supermarket, a dog at the drive-thru, or a tuatara at the thrift shop. Or, perhaps, you haven't; as I write this, the number of patients might not yet have reached triple digits worldwide.

Perhaps I should introduce myself. My name is Tanja ------, and I am an Iberian Azure-winged Magpie, scientific name 'cyanopica cooki'. One year ago, I was fully human, and now I look like a hybrid between our two species. So, let me guide you through my world.

How is this possible?

A little over a year ago, certain medical circles revealed that species transformation had been trialled in mice, turning them into various other creatures, with various success rates from 20 to 80% depending on size and how different the target species was. Now, I'm not for animal testing, but when I heard that human trials were going to open, I kept that pinned to my calendar. And so, after a few months, I was able to finally sign up and have my first interview. Which was… short. Turns out, they had pretty elaborate ways of gatekeeping people who really meant that they wanted it from those that they thought would regret the procedures. They also had a little joke, based on gender HRT, where they would ask if you'd spent years living as your preferred species beforehand. Or at least, I think it was a joke. And then, I was on my way to becoming the bird I love.

How much did it cost?

Well, luckily for me, the NHS provides free healthcare. Then, due to this being a clinical trial, I get paid for being a test subject. Then, due to the effects of the medicine, I receive Disability Benefits. The treatment itself is… a bit of a legal loophole, really. This very article may well be the first you've heard of it.

Is it just a magic pill?

Nope! It's a mix of CRISPR, gene replacement, hormone injections, and surgeries over time. It's a real mishmash, at least in my case. For example, keratinous structures can be grown through selective DNA editing and hormones that stimulate 'hair' growth in specific areas in specific ways. Bone structure can also slowly be altered in some cases through gene replacement, though in some cases, surgery is needed. My back, for example, will soon be undergoing surgery to adjust the way the vertebrae are laid out. Some aspects just are too difficult to be done naturally, and so artificial parts and prosthetics are added. But this complicated procedure has an upside - it means that there is more customisation possible! For example, a Harpy would be a very specific set of applications of Bird HRT that exclude certain aspects such as the face!

Are there downsides?

Definitely. There's the immunosuppression that has to occur to stop new parts from being rejected. There's the high risk of cancers and other diseases to occur as a result of this procedure. There's just the risk that your organs will fail. Most of this is irreversible too.

Why even do it then?

Because, to that small number of people, it's so worth it. This is a new life, an opportunity to discard that uncomfortable human vessel and be yourself at last. For the vast majority of people, being oneself is being human, but that's not the case for everyone.

Is it going to be banned?

Well, that's hard to say. Governments worldwide are, I'm sure, now aware of this phenomenon. And I think it presents a threat to the status quo. This is something new, something scary, something intimidating, that shifts the power balance between subjects and governers. And it's not just because some people have become huge fire-breathing dragons - it's the meaning behind it. They've rejected the very notion of the social contract between humans and crafted a new identity. Do we still count as people? And that's really the question, isn't it. So much of the way government and society works is to split people into groups of those that are 'more' people, and those that are 'lesser' people - and that dictates what societal violences are permissible, for example. This whole new procedure will have to make governments rethink so much, and it can either be a source of worry for us, or a source of hope for everyone. We just have to be loud enough to be heard for who we are.

So what will come next? Well, I'm going to hop on in to my next appointment, and the Earth will keep spinning. My first set of wings has almost reached full-span, and my toe-dexterity is almost at where I was with hands as a human. With my next set of primaries, I may have enough of a wingspan to fly, if I keep my weight low enough. Meanwhile, Parliament will likely have a debate on the issue, as a petition to legalise the procedure has a few thousand signatures on the government's official petition website. I'll be waiting on that result eagerly.

If you have any other questions, I'd be more than willing to answer them!

[humancelltournament]

Human Cell Tournament Round 1

Propaganda!

Goblet cells are simple columnar epithelial cells that secrete gel-forming mucins, like mucin 2 in the lower gastrointestinal tract, and mucin 5AC in the respiratory tract. The term goblet refers to the cell's goblet-like shape. Goblet cells are typically found in the respiratory, reproductive and lower gastrointestinal tract and are surrounded by other columnar cells. Biased differentiation of airway basal cells in the respiratory epithelium, into goblet cells plays a key role in the excessive mucus production, known as mucus hypersecretion seen in many respiratory diseases, including chronic bronchitis, and asthma. Goblet cells are simple columnar epithelial cells, having a height of four times that of their width. The cytoplasm of goblet cells tends to be displaced toward the basal end of the cell body by the large mucin granules, which accumulate near the apical surface of the cell along the Golgi apparatus, which lies between the granules and the nucleus.

Progesterone (P4) is an endogenous steroid and progestogen sex hormone involved in the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and embryogenesis of humans and other species. It belongs to a group of steroid hormones called the progestogens and is the major progestogen in the body. Progesterone has a variety of important functions in the body. It is also a crucial metabolic intermediate in the production of other endogenous steroids, including the sex hormones and the corticosteroids, and plays an important role in brain function as a neurosteroid. In addition to its role as a natural hormone, progesterone is also used as a medication, such as in combination with estrogen for contraception, to reduce the risk of uterine or cervical cancer, in hormone replacement therapy, and in feminizing hormone therapy.

[omegaverse-anthropologist]

oh wow jp’s alive and yappin up a storm

for no reason in particular, ive been thinking about bitching, both as a method of transition for omegas assigned alpha at birth and a vector for abuse. in this post, i’ll just talk about ‘delta-omega transition’ and in another post, i’ll talk about transphobia and ‘bitching’ as a vector for abuse.

also heads up that this is less pseudo-anthropology/sociology and more fantasy omegaverse than i usually get into, again because of the ‘no reason in particular’ from my danmei fandom sideblog linked above lmao

delta-omega transition (bitching)

delta(d)-omega transition, colloquially (and often disparagingly) referred to as bitching, is a method for an alpha to transition to omega. the transition is hormonally based, and does not generate internal organs or conjure the ability for the alpha to become pregnant. the houghton (slick) glands become engorged and begin producing lubrication similar to someone assigned omega at birth, and the body’s natural hormone levels shift to a more omega balance than an alpha balance. d-omega transition is impossible without some level of medical support, whether that be traditional/plant-based medicines or allopathic synthetic therapies.

as long as humans have existed, transgender humans have existed. there are records of people of all birth-assigned dynamic sexes being described as ‘delta’ or using a modifier before their dynamic sex designation. delta is used to describe a person who was assigned one dynamic at birth that does not align with their internal truth. (e.g., a d-alpha would historically describe an alpha who was assigned a different dynamic sex at birth, and d-beta or d-omega would similarly describe beta and omega experiences.) in the modern day, ‘delta’ is only used as a modifier in legal or medical contexts where absolutely necessary. a person’s ID does not reflect their dynamic sex as ‘d-beta,’ for example, but simply ‘beta.’

the use of delta as a sole dynamic sex indicator (i.e., instead of referring to someone in a medical context as a d-alpha, they are simply described as a delta) is frowned upon as inaccurate, unhelpful, and bigoted.

d-omega transition

modern d-omega transition functions similarly to other forms of hormone replacement therapy. under a physician’s supervision, the d-omega takes agonists to suppress production of alpha hormones and genesic medications to induce the production of omega hormones. support from packmates is a positive indicator for ease of transition, but in cases where a d-omega is rejected by their pack, there is support in the form of therapy groups and community-led delta-transition support centers, which often provide materials marked with either volunteers’ scents or synthetic pheromones.

historically, d-omega transition was achieved through a multi-step process that could be undertaken over the course of one to three years. the d-omega in question would brew certain plants into a tea. when consumed frequently enough as to be a constant presence in the body, the chemicals in this tea would have a destabilizing effect on the d-omega’s natural hormone balance. without support from a pack, frequent ingestion of this tea could induce a state of ferality.

with pack support, however, the individual’s hormone balance would be influenced toward a state more in line with the d-omega’s identity. creating this balance required frequent contact with alpha packmates. the contact was not necessarily sexual, though there are descriptions of regular sexual contact being requisite for successful transition. (note: these descriptions would not stand up to modern academic scrutiny, but they were, like the miasma theory of disease, accepted as fact at the time.)

typically, interaction with alpha pheromones would trigger a minor increase in omega dynamic hormones, balanced by a decrease in alpha dynamic hormones and an increase or decrease in beta hormones as appropriate to maintain homeostasis. however, in the destabilized state of a transitioning d-omega’s hormonal balance, this interaction would cause a more pronounced shift. frequent induction of this shift would, in essence, train the body to a new homeostasis. eventually, the d-omega would down-titrate from their destabilizing dose of medication. once their body was able to maintain omega hormonal balance without assistance, the therapy would be halted, and d-omega transition would be considered ‘complete.’

[demilypyro]

hhhow did u do the tea thing?? How did u balance it on ur tits??

Natural talent. And hormone replacement therapy

[that-yeerk-you-know]

Yeerk here, or- I guess my controller is typing this.

They keep thinking about customizing their body structure, but the chemicals to do it on earth aren't very effective.

They want chest bumps for some reason?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

🪱 Oh! We can certainly help :D So, those "chest bumps" are amongst sexually dimorphic traits of those with relatively high amounts of the hormone Estrogen in their bodies. This can often be attributed to a "more feminine body", and for transfemme individuals, meaning, those whose gender identity is more feminine-leaning than what they were assigned with at birth (Aubrey: that'd include me and mags <3) this can be distressing and painful. This distress is known as Gender Dysphoria, and is caused when a human body's sexual traits doesn't align with their identity. Since these hormones, and by extension these dimorphic traits are caused by the sexual organs the body was born with, as a Yeerk this is one of the few things out of your direct control, however, me and my host have been Hormone Replacement Therapy for roughly 5 years as of this post, and have seen satisfactory results, soothing this dysphoria. This method blocks your host bodies sexual hormone production, and supplements it with that of the target sex. If this interests you (despite your admitted and warranted lack of trust in the human healthcare system), there are a few links below that can inform you and your host in making a decision that will bring you joy for the rest of your and your host's natural lifespan. A more comprehensive breakdown of what's expected during this therapy. https://transcare.ucsf.edu/guidelines/feminizing-hormone-therapy

A map of Informed Consent Clinics Across the US (Apologies, as our experience and resources are limited to the United States due to our location) https://www.erininthemorning.com/p/erins-informed-consent-hrt-map-how We hope your host's dysphoria causes you both as limited pain as possible, and we'd also recommend exploring your host's (and your ;D) gender and implore you to seek other dysphoria-reducing activities to blend into your host-care regimen, such as affirming clothes, soaps, etc. -May the Kandrona Shine and Strengthen You, Magnolia 🧠I think Magnolia covered it for the most part, but from one human to, what I'm assuming, another, I just wanted to let you know that it's totally natural to want this sort of change. Also, my direct messages are open if you'd enjoy some more resources, anecdotes, or just need a buddy. Good luck you two, we hope the affirming care you want finds you well! -Aubrey

[genderstarbucks]

Transsexual Enby is a term for trans enbys who identify with the term transsexual.

[ID 1: Two transsexual enby flags, both with seven symetrical stripes. The first is black, purple, pale yellow, gold, pale yellow, purple, and black. The second version has the black and purple stripes replaced with gold and tan. End ID.]

Transsexual Agender is a term for trans agenders who identify with the term transsexual.

[ID 2: Two transsexual agender flags, both with seven symetrical stripes. The first is black, purple, pale green, dark green, pale green, purple, and black. The second version replaces the black and purple stripes with dark green and light green. End ID.]

Cissex, also known as Cissexual, is a sex label to refer to someone whose current and desired sex characteristics match their natural/original sex characteristics. This means that their, genitals, gonads, and other secondary sex characteristics have not been altered through hormone replacement therapy, or surgery, and they have no intention to do so.

[ID 3: Two cissex flags, both the same except that the second has writing on top. The flag has ten stripes, with the two top and bottom stripes wide, and the central stripes very thin. The stripes are: Dark pink, pink, grey, light grey, white, light grey, grey, blue, and darker blue.

The stripes are labeled from top to bottom: Trans girls / women for dark pink, cis girls / women for pink, cissexness for the shades of grey and white, trans boys/men for blue, and cis boys/men for the darker blue. End ID.]

Cissexual Boy | Cissexual Girl

[ID 4: A cissexual boy and cissexual girl flag, both with the same numberof stripes as the cissex flag, but with only the blue and grey stripes for the cissexual boy flag, and only pink for the cissexual girl. End ID.]

Cissexual Nonbinary | Cissexual Agender

[ID 5: A cissexual nonbinary and agender flag. Both in the same formats as above, but with violet and yellow stripes for the cissexual nonbinary, and dark and light green for the cissexual agender. End ID.]

Transsexual flags based on these

Transsexual is not necessarily synonymous with transgender and cissexual is not necessarily synonymous with cisgender!