Estradiol is the most commonly prescribed form of estrogen for gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT). It both reduces testosterone levels in the body and promotes the development of secondary sex characteristics such as breast growth, body fat redistribution to hips and thighs, decreased muscle mass, facial softening, and more. Read more in our Library on the different forms of estradiol or expected changes on estrogen HRT.

No, you don’t. However, anti-androgens work well with estrogen by blocking the masculinizing effects of testosterone. They also help decrease the risks of HRT by allowing for lower doses of estrogen. Read more in our Library on anti-androgens and progesterone routes.

When you receive GAHT through FOLX, you'll work with your clinician on putting together a care plan to achieve your goals. That will impact which medications you're prescribed which could include just an anti-androgen or progesterone and no estradiol prescription.