I’m a little over a month on testosterone so I thought it was time for an update! For those of you that don’t know, ftm transgender people can take testosterone, which changes some attributes of yourself to look more masculine. It’s gender affirming care. I started with a low dose of T for the first month, and recently moved to the average dose of T. Not every trans person transitions medically, but this is the route I chose.
For some people, I’m the first trans person in your life. Not everyone actually knows what it’s like to live as a trans person, and I want to keep you updated on what my transition looks like. There are multiple forms of taking testosterone such as gel, injections, patches, etc. I currently apply gel daily, but I believe many people do injections once a week. Everyone is different!
So without further ado, here are changes I’ve already started to see within the first 5-6 weeks.
My body temperature felt like it increased. Not to be gross but I sweat more and find myself getting hotter a lot faster than before. There are actually medicinal deodorants I can buy to help with this but I didn’t find it necessary. Me (and everyone else in the summer) should be reapplying deoderant!!
More hair! This is a slow process and not noticeable to anyone but me. A happy trail is coming in on my stomach. Darker baby hairs are finding their way onto my upper lip and sideburns. Invisible to everyone else but I pay very close attention to all of this. More peach fuzz on my face. Soon they’ll be dark and longer. I have PCOS and I already had hair growth before, so I feel like me growing facial hair won’t be as hard as some trans guys.
My hair gets greasier easier and my skin is more oily. Showering and a skin care routine is important! I haven’t seen acne yet but there’s plenty of time for that to come.
And one of my favorite parts: my voice change. Already my voice has dropped a little. To the average person you won’t be able to hear it, especially if I talk to you everyday. But I’ve been recording videos for my voice and there is a CLEAR difference. My vocal chords are adjusting and it feels like I’m sick because my throat is agitated. I’m super excited to see how this progresses over time.
Unfortunately for everyone who’s nosy, those are all the updates I have for you. I haven’t been on testosterone for too long so my changes are very minimal. More changes to come the longer I’m on it. Some won’t be noticeable, and others will be. I’ll be sure to keep everyone updated! I’m excited for this journey that I’m on, and I’m the happiest I’ve ever been.
I like being open about this. Of course I only share what I’m comfortable with. But if you have questions for yourself or someone you know or you’re just curious, don’t hesitate to reach out on Instagram @wes.sacerdote. I’ll do my best to answer any burning questions you have!
