By Marla Louise

There has been a lot of discussion about hormones on the nets. I'd like to summarize some thoughts on the issue... - Hormones are powerful chemicals (whether they be 'natural' or synthetic). They have the potential to do damage to one's body as well as good. This does not mean a person should not use hormones, but it does mean a person should be fully aware of the risk as well as benefits. In addition, if I decided to take hormones, I would do so only under the observation of a experienced professional in order to spot adverse effects early. Note that this recommendation is conservative, but when it comes to my body, being the only one I have, I am very conservative. Note also, that I'm not promoting gatekeepers, I'm promoting having the medical community work for you!.

- One should be aware of what hormones will and will not do. Generally (but not always), they will make one's male body more feminine (in the case of estrogen) by promoting breast growth, testicular atrophy, decreased libido, fat redistribution (in a more feminine structure), and reduction of muscular bulk. There may be a softening of the skin, a slight decrease in body and facial hair and the hairline may stop receding (Rogaine, top that <BG>). Hormones WILL NOT make one a woman if one is not a woman, nor will lack of taking hormones prevent a person from being a woman if one is a woman.

- If one desires to change the physical sex of their body, hormones are a necessary and possibly the most important step of this process (I consider hormones to be a more important decision than SRS). Just don't confuse physical sex with gender. These are two separate aspects of one's sexuality.

- Herbal hormones avoid none of the dangers of manufactured hormones. Instead they increase the dangers in providing product created under non-existent to poor quality control, with additional unknown and possibly dangerous other chemicals included (See December 1995 Consumer Reports).

In summary, if you are planning on taking hormones, make an informed decision.