How Hormone Therapy Can Impact Sexual Health

Meta Description: Understand how hormone therapy affects sexual health, libido, and reproductive considerations, with guidance from FormKind Health telehealth providers.

Introduction

Hormone therapy, whether gender-affirming (GAHT) or hormone replacement therapy (HRT), can have significant effects on sexual health. These changes may involve libido, fertility, and overall sexual function. At FormKind Health, our telehealth providers guide patients through these changes safely, providing education, monitoring, and personalized care.

GAHT Effects on Sexual Health

Testosterone Therapy:

• Often increases libido in transgender men.

• Can lead to changes in erectile function or menstruation suppression in transgender men.

Estrogen Therapy:

• Often decreases libido in transgender women.

• Can cause changes in erectile function or testicular volume.

Other Considerations:

• Emotional and mood changes may affect sexual desire.

• Changes occur gradually, typically over several months.

HRT Effects in Adults

Menopause (Estrogen Therapy):

• Can relieve vaginal dryness and improve sexual comfort.

• May increase libido in some individuals.

Andropause (Testosterone Therapy):

• May improve libido, energy, and erectile function.

• Requires monitoring for cardiovascular health and hormone balance.

Monitoring and Support Through Telehealth

• Telehealth visits allow ongoing discussions about sexual health concerns.

• Providers can adjust hormone doses safely based on symptoms and lab results.

• Mental health support is integrated for emotional well-being.

Safe Sex and STI Prevention

• PrEP and Doxy-PEP can be used alongside hormone therapy for HIV and STI prevention.

• Telehealth allows confidential prescriptions and monitoring.

• Regular STI screenings help maintain sexual health.

Tips for Patients

• Track changes in libido, sexual function, or fertility.

• Communicate openly with your telehealth provider.

• Combine hormone therapy with sexual health measures like PrEP/Doxy-PEP and routine screenings.

Conclusion

Hormone therapy can significantly impact sexual health, but with proper monitoring and guidance, patients can navigate these changes safely. FormKind Health’s telehealth providers ensure care is affirming, confidential, and tailored to individual needs.

Schedule a telehealth visit to discuss sexual health and hormone therapy safely with FormKind Health.