GENDER AFFIRMING CARE

Student Health Services (SHS) is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment for students who are seeking gender affirming healthcare.  

 

Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy, also known as hormone replacement therapy (HRT), is a medical service that assists individuals in aligning their physical characteristics with their gender identity. This therapy involves taking hormones to develop secondary sexual characteristics that match an individual's expectations of their gendered self. 

 

If you are interested in exploring gender affirming hormone therapy or have any questions, please call us at 415-338-1251 or schedule an appointment with us online via MyHealth.

 

Click on the sections below to review a brief overview of the gender affirming hormone therapy process.

We begin with an initial consultation where you can discuss your gender identity, medical history, and goals with one of our healthcare providers. At Student Health Services, we utilize an informed consent model of care. This gives you the opportunity to make decisions about your body and health care in an informed and empowered way. It allows people to understand their options and make decisions that are best for their own health and well-being. The informed consent model includes discussions of your expectations, decision making process, understanding of risks and benefits, support structures, and general health. The goal is not to assess but to facilitate thoughtful decision making.

If hormone therapy aligns with your needs, our healthcare providers will develop an individualized treatment plan. This plan may involve the prescription of testosterone, estrogen, and/or anti-androgens. The dosage and method of administration will be discussed and adjusted based on your specific needs. If you are prescribed an injected hormone, our clinic staff will provide support and education about the process and provide you with the necessary materials.

Regular follow-up appointments are needed to monitor the effects of hormone therapy, manage any potential side effects, and ensure your well-being. Our healthcare providers will work with you to address any concerns, adjust dosages if necessary, and provide ongoing support. 

We understand that gender affirming hormone therapy is just one aspect of gender affirming care. We can discuss other avenues of care, such as surgery or voice therapy and help connect you with resources on campus and in the community.  Gator Health provides inclusive services, including mental health support, sexual health services, and general medical care. 

LGBTQ Health Campus and Community Resources : https://health.sfsu.edu/lgbtqi-health

Gender affirming Care