Disclaimer: I know self-medicating is usually very discouraged and for good reasons.
Just trying to educate myself.
Questions
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What are the types of self-medicating MTF individuals typically use?
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What are each one’s risks?
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When is it defensible to use these? (My first thought is people like potentially myself, as local laws make getting access very hard. And I am FAR from organizations that help with access.)
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If one is dead set on self-medicating, what methods, dosages, & precautions should they take to avoid adverse side effects or health concerns?
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If you move to a country or state that has better access later on, can it hurt your ability to access certain types of care if you already self-medicated?
The website that BlueSharkEnjoyer shared is a really great place to get information about DIY transitioning. Also, r/transDIY if you still have access to Reddit.
I’ll just comment on your third question, because there are various reasons why someone might want to go the DIY route. Some quick examples I can think of are:
Laws that make it hard to access HRT through traditional means.
Long wait-list times to have access to gender-affirming treatment.
Gatekeeping practices that make it unreasonably hard to access HRT.
DIY can be lower cost, especially for people who are uninsured or who don’t feel the need to see a therapist.
People who are insured with their parents might not want them to see their treatment on insurance statements. (My reason for doing DIY HRT)
Some people are just “testing the waters” and don’t want a trans diagnosis on their medical record.
Some people might not consider themselves to be trans, but want to take HRT anyway with minimal hassle.
More control over dosage and medications.
Ability to stockpile medication in case it can’t be obtained in the usual way.
I’m sure there are other reasons. Those are just the ones I can think of at the moment.