How to Start Hormone Therapy: A Step-by-Step Guide

Your journey, your pace. Here’s what to expect when starting hormone therapy with True U Clinic.

Hormone therapy can be a powerful and affirming step for many transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse people. Whether you're exploring low-dose options or ready for a full hormone therapy regimen, getting started shouldn’t be confusing or gatekept. This guide walks you through exactly how to begin hormone therapy online — judgment-free and at your own pace.

Step 1: Decide What Feels Right for You

Hormone therapy is deeply personal. You might already know what you want — or you might still be figuring that out. Both are valid.

  • Estrogen therapy
  • Testosterone therapy
  • Low-dose or microdosing options
  • Nonbinary and gender-expansive approaches
A smiling nonbinary person reviews information on a laptop with a coffee cup nearby.

Image description: A smiling nonbinary person reviews information on a laptop with a coffee cup nearby.

Step 2: Book Your Online Appointment

We’ve made it as easy as possible. All you need to do is:

  • Choose a time that works for you on our appointment page
  • Submit a 10% deposit to hold your slot
  • Fill out your intake forms via our secure patient portal
Screenshot of online appointment calendar with available time slots visible.

Image description: Screenshot of True U Clinic’s online appointment calendar with available time slots visible.

Step 3: Meet with a True U Provider

Your first appointment will be 100% virtual and usually lasts around 45 minutes. You’ll talk through your goals, medical history, and any questions or concerns you have. We take an informed consent approach — which means we respect your autonomy and offer education, not gatekeeping.

A gender-diverse person smiling on a video call with a healthcare provider.

Image description: A gender-diverse person smiling on a video call with a healthcare provider.

Step 4: Start Your Hormones — Safely and Affordably

Once your labs are complete and your care plan is confirmed, your prescription will be sent to your chosen pharmacy (we work with many affordable and mail-order options).

We’ll continue to check in and support you — whether that’s adjusting your dose, answering questions, or just being here for the journey.

Step 5: Ongoing Support & Follow-Up Care

Hormones aren’t one-and-done — and neither is our care. True U offers:

  • Secure messaging with your provider
  • Regular follow-up visits
  • Help navigating side effects, fertility questions, and insurance issues
  • Emotional support and mental health referrals if needed
Transmasc person writing in a journal with HRT prescription nearby.

Image description: A trans person writing in a journal with hormone therapy prescription nearby.

FAQs: Hormone Therapy with True U

Is hormone therapy permanent?

Some effects of hormone therapy are reversible, and some are not. We’ll walk you through the details so you can make informed decisions that feel right for you.

Do I need a letter from a therapist?

For folks 18+ yrs old, we use the informed consent model. That means you don’t need approval from a therapist to access care.

Can I do low-dose or microdosing hormone therapy?

Yes. We offer flexible, affirming options tailored to your needs — including nonbinary care plans.

A trans woman smiles confidently outside, wearing headphones and a denim jacket.

Image description: A nonbinary person smiling confidently outside, wearing headphones and a denim jacket.

You Deserve Affirming, Accessible Care

At True U, we’re here to make starting hormone therapy feel less scary — and more like the beginning of something beautiful. Book your appointment today and take the next step toward feeling more like yourself.