Plume is an online telehealth service that provides access to gender-affirming hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for transgender and nonbinary people.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) involves taking estrogen, testosterone, or other hormones to align one's physical characteristics with their gender identity. For transgender women, HRT aims to suppress testosterone levels and introduce estrogen to feminize features. For transgender men, HRT introduces testosterone to masculinize features.
Key aspects of Plume's HRT service include:
- Initial consultation: Patients complete an intake form and schedule a video visit with one of Plume's licensed medical providers. The provider evaluates the patient's medical history, goals, and readiness for HRT.
- Prescriptions and lab tests: If cleared to start, the patient receives electronic prescriptions for HRT medications. Plume also orders any necessary blood tests to monitor hormone levels.
- Ongoing care and adjustments: Patients have follow-up visits every 3 months. The provider adjusts medication types or dosages as needed to meet treatment goals and maintain healthy lab levels.
- Accessible pricing: Without insurance, Plume offers generic HRT medications for as low as $99 per month, including visits and labs.
Benefits of Plume:
- Convenient remote access to licensed, transgender-competent providers
- Individualized transition plans to meet each patient's needs
- Lower costs compared to traditional clinics and healthcare
- Discreet and confidential care
HRT Regimens Offered by Plume:
Plume provides the medications required for complete feminizing or masculinizing
hormone therapy:
- For transgender women:
- Estrogen - estradiol tablets, patches, injections
- Anti-androgens - spironolactone, finasteride
- Progesterone (optional)
- For transgender men:
- Testosterone - injections, gels, patches
Plume's licensed medical providers determine the appropriate HRT medications and dosages for each patient based on their medical profile, goals, risks, and lab results. The regimens are carefully monitored and adjusted over time.
Expected Timeline and Effects:
The
feminizing and masculinizing effects of HRT manifest gradually over months and years. Patients can expect:
- 1-3 months: Early effects like softening skin, decreased oiliness or acne, facial hair thinning
- 3-6 months: Breast growth begins; body fat redistribution; slower facial hair growth
- 1-2 years: Continued development of breasts, hips, skin texture changes, muscle and hair changes
- 2 years: Maximum effects realized - full breast and hip growth; facial changes
Of course, timelines and results vary per the individual. Plume's providers discuss realistic expectations during consultations.
At Second Spring Hormone Clinic, our team of specialists provides comprehensive care to help transgender, nonbinary, and questioning people thrive in their transition. We offer:
- Safe, effective hormone therapy
- Individual and group counseling
- Primary care, labs, and gender-affirming surgeries
- Free insurance benefits reviews and financial assistance
- Judgment-free environment welcoming people of all backgrounds
With multiple locations across the state,
Second Spring Hormone Clinic strives to make quality transition-related healthcare accessible to all. Contact us today to learn more or schedule your first appointment.
