Hormone Replacement Therapy Services in Irvine

As the largest LGBTQ+ medical clinic in Orange County, Radiant Health Centers provides a wide range of treatment, testing and support services. One of our more recent service additions is hormone replacement therapy (HRT), available to the LGBTQIA2S (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, Two-Spirit) community. Our knowledgeable and compassionate team is available for patients seeking an initial evaluation, or who may have questions about HRT.

What Is Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Hormone therapy is a treatment used to adjust hormone levels to align with an individual’s gender identity. The process is one of the ways to assist a transgender person during their transition, helping to improve their physical and emotional well-being. Gender-affirming hormone therapy involves taking medication to a level that provides an individual’s desired level of masculinization or feminization. Our trained medical team works with patients to find the right levels of testosterone or estrogen to aid in their transition.

An Overview of the HRT Process

• An initial evaluation to discuss the treatment and potential side effects.
• A review of your medical history to ensure there are no treatment complications.
• A physical examination to confirm you are in good health and ready to proceed.
• Blood tests to check for possible complications with the treatment.
• Patient consent forms to ensure you have complete understanding of the therapy.

Who Can Benefit From Hormone Replacement Therapy?

HRT is an important treatment for transwomen, transmen, nonbinary and intersex people. The therapy can help reduce gender dysphoria and increase self-confidence, plus improve mental health overall. HRT can provide an improved sense of self and a better quality of life by removing the incongruence felt when a person’s body and gender don’t align.

Access Our LGBTQ+ Counseling and Mental Health Services

We offer various treatments at Radiant Health Centers, including mental health therapies, HIV/STI testing, family planning, counseling on HRT, counseling on transitioning and more. For many patients the HRT process may be stressful, and they may require support from experienced counselors. Our LGBTQ+ counseling services ensure patients are supported throughout their transition with help from an educated, caring and compassionate team.

Common Questions About Hormone Replacement Therapy

Do I need to undergo gender affirmation surgery along with hormone replacement therapy?

You have options – HRT can be used as part of an individual’s treatment without surgery. Or, you could choose to include surgery as part of your transition.

Can I follow the HRT process without a healthcare provider?

Attempting HRT without a healthcare provider could be unsafe. It’s important to work with experienced professionals to ensure you receive the correct medication dosage, and that your health is prioritized.

Do I Start HRT on My Initial Visit?

No, you will not start HRT on your initial visit. You will require a few additional visits prior to initiating HRT. These visits will include the initial evaluation, a discussion about HRT (what it is and what it can accomplish), what to expect when you begin HRT treatment and its possible side effects. In addition, you will visit with a mental health professional for consultation and evaluation.

Can I control the level of feminization or masculinization?

Yes. Modifying the medication dose will adjust a transition’s outcome to deliver the optimal results for each individual. Other factors like genetics and age will also play a part.

Contact Us to Discuss Our HRT Services

At Radiant Health Centers, we provide HRT services to the LGBTQIA2S community in Orange County. For more information on the transitioning process, including our counseling services, contact our team today. Call the medical clinic at (949) 809-5700 or schedule an appointment now.