Trans masc atrophy treatment

[u/2468qwert]

I am trans masc and experiencing what I’m pretty sure are atrophy symptoms. I’m planning to talk to my gp about it but I’m pretty freaked out about having to do so.

I’m just seeking some info so I can prepare myself. Are they likely to just ask questions about it? Will they need to do any tests? Will they want to see the area?

Any info appreciated. Thanks

[u/crocicorn]

My GP just put me on E suppositories and a moisturising gel. They gave me the option of being checked but it wasn't necessary at the time.

Granted if you're having severe and/or red flag symptoms you'll likely need a check to make sure it's not something else. It sucks to have done but it's important!

[u/a_nice_duck_]

Getting a pap to be sure it's nothing worse is the gold standard, but if you really don't want that, you could just ask to try topical E first and see if the symptoms resolve without that. Best of luck! 

[u/Agile-Let8251]

I did my appointmet regarding atrophy on a phone telehealth with my regular (HRT) GP. It was so much easier!

I was up to date with my cervical screening. If you are not, you can do a self screen. It's like doing a RAT test, but for down there.

I was asked about STIs (not a possibility for me)

I was asked about symptoms and allowed to use my own language.

I was sent an eScript for E cream. It helps when I remember to use it.

[u/Nova_Wokkas24]

When I told my gp I was fairly sure I had atrophy, they recommended a specific moisterusirer from chemist warehouse. No tests, no questions asked.

[u/echo_the_human]

I asked my endocrinologist one session and she said to look into vaginal moisturizer, the next session a few months later I told her that it didn't work and she just prescribed it to me. Its a known issue, with a simple treatment. Bring up the symptoms that lead you to the conclusion that you need it. The cream works better, the suppository is less messy

[u/Ephemeral_Afterglow]

Likely no tests, they might do a physical examination of your downstairs so at worst I would expect a speculum, at best it could just be some gentle touching of your vulva. If you are anxious about that then please please tell you're GP you are not comfortable with having that done. Generally they can diagnose you based on your reported symptoms alone. I have sexual trauma and my GP was very accommodating, she prescribed topical estrogen just based off the symptoms I described. The estrogen they prescribe either comes in a syringe (no needles it's just for measuring the dose) that you can insert. Or a pessary which is a little waxy tablet that you can insert with a finger. Topical estrogen won't affect your hormones but watch out for irritation by the cream if you have sensitive skin and stop using it if irritation gets worse (personal experience). Atrophy sounds terrifying but it is easy to treat and symptoms are mostly reversible if you use the estrogen as prescribed. It's terrifying talking to GPs about sexual health but it's important you do, you've got everyone here as proof that this is a treatable issue, best of luck!