We get so many questions about testosterone, but some of them repeat. A lot. And that’s okay, cos we want to give you all the info, but I’m gonna answer some frequent questions about T here. (Fun fact, these asks are going right back to the start of our testosterone tag, so some of these Qs are really really old!!)
I’m a singer. How will T affect my voice?
This was a huge question for me too, as a singer. I’m a solid soprano, and the idea of losing my (freaking huge) range. To echo Fox and Phoenix’s sentiments from a long time ago, you have options. First, you can take a lower dose, which will adjust your voice slower and allow you to have more control. Second, you can practise every single day, and if possible get a singing teacher who has experience with trans people or pubescent boys. Lastly, you can take T in pill form or gel form, which generally give slower changes, as in the first point.
Obviously, in regards to dose and to what kind of T you take, your doctor IS the final say in this.
I’m scared of needles. How can I take T?
T comes in needle form, pill form, dissolvable tablet form, pellet injection form, and gel form! Not all forms are availible everywhere, so be sure to ask your doctor.
What are the effects of T?
To quote Fox from a year ago:
features become more defined/squared
possible changes in energy/appetite/mood/etc.
growth in the hands and feet
There’s more, less prominent changes too.
Do I have to take T forever?
Yes and no. Some changes will stay, such as voice, facial hair, and clit growth, but others will just disappear - your monthly cycle will return, and metabolism will change.
Yes and no. If you’re still young and in puberty, then yes, maybe you will. But if you’re over the age of 20, more than likely, no.
Check your maternal grandad, uncles, etc, cos that’s the side that male pattern balding runs in. If you want to counteract male pattern balding, there are treatments for it, both over the counter and more “intense”.
It really varies based on location, type of T, insurance, etc. Most people pay less than $60 a month.
What about changes….down there?
There’s a few changes in the genital area that everyone should be aware of. First, clit growth. This is one of the first things most people notice on T, and it’s been dubbed the T-dick. Second, dryness. The bazinga (codeword for the genitals) is less naturally lubricated (as that’s the job of estrogen) so you might get really dry, so extra lube for sex situations. And monthly cycles stop!
How old do I need to be for T?
Most places will put you on at 16 with parental consent, and 18 without parental consent.
I will update this with more Qs!
