How old do you have to be to start HRT in Utah?

The age at which a person can start hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in Utah depends on several factors.

To start HRT in Utah, a person generally needs to be at least 18 years old and get a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. However, there are some exceptions where a minor under 18 may be able to access HRT with parental consent and approval from a healthcare provider.

Key factors that determine if and when HRT can be started in Utah include:

• Age - Most healthcare providers follow general guidelines to not prescribe HRT until around age 18. However, some make exceptions for mature minors under 18 with parental consent.


• Diagnosis - A diagnosis of gender dysphoria or a related condition from a mental health professional is usually required before starting HRT.


• Readiness - The healthcare provider will assess physical, social, and psychological readiness and ensure the patient understands the effects of HRT before prescribing it.


• Parental consent - Minors under age 18 generally need consent from at least one parent or legal guardian to start HRT in Utah.


• Healthcare provider approval - A licensed healthcare provider ultimately decides if HRT is appropriate and provides prescriptions for hormones and medical supervision of treatment.

The HRT Process for Minors Under Age 18 in Utah

Minors hoping to access HRT in Utah typically go through the following process:

• Mental health assessment - Meet with a mental health professional for an evaluation and diagnosis of gender dysphoria or a related condition.


• Readiness assessment - Discuss feelings, goals, and expectations about social and physical transition with healthcare team.


• Informed consent - Healthcare provider explains effects, risks, and benefits of HRT to ensure understanding.


• Get parental consent - At least one parent or guardian must provide signed, written consent.


• Prescription from healthcare provider - If deemed appropriate, a prescription for HRT medications will be provided.


• Ongoing medical monitoring - Follow a schedule for lab work, assessments, prescription refills, and adjusting dosages as needed.

HRT Options Available in Utah

The main types of HRT available in Utah include:

• Estrogen - For transgender women and transfeminine patients. Can take forms like oral estradiol, transdermal estrogen patches, or injected estradiol valerate.


• Testosterone - For transgender men and transmasculine patients. Options include injectable testosterone cypionate, testosterone enanthate, or transdermal testosterone gels/solutions.


• Puberty blockers - For adolescents and teens. Can temporarily suppress pubertal development and associated physical changes.


• Bioidentical hormones - Synthesized to be similar to human hormones. Considered natural and plant-based.


• Compounded hormones - Custom formulations to meet specific dosing and administration needs.

Healthcare providers work with each patient to determine the appropriate types, dosages, and methods of administering HRT to meet treatment goals while minimizing risks.

Finding an Informed Consent HRT Provider in Utah

Informed consent is a model for accessing HRT that involves:

• Education about effects


• Discussion of risks/benefits


• Signing consent forms

Rather than requiring a diagnosis or letter from a mental health professional before prescribing hormones.

Here are some resources to help find informed consent HRT providers in Utah:

• Hormone Harmony Clinic() - Offering telehealth HRT services throughout Utah and other states using an informed consent model. Contact them today for a free consultation about starting hormones!


• (/) - Clinic with locations in Salt Lake City and St George providing HRT under informed consent.


• (/transgender-resources/health-wellness-provider-list/) - Database of trans-friendly physical and mental healthcare providers statewide.


• (/provider/search) - Searchable directory of medical professionals certified by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health.

Finding a supportive HRT provider you trust is key for starting the process to align your body with your gender identity. Consult local resources to explore your options in Utah.