Why do I need to have my blood tested?
Regular blood testing enables us to monitor your hormone levels to ensure you are within the required range for the gender with which you identify.
Also, taking certain medications puts you at risk for certain health complications. For example:
- If you're taking spironolactone, you need to monitor your potassium level to ensure it isn't elevated, which can cause life-threatening irregular heart rhythms.
- If you're taking cyproterone, you need to monitor your liver enzymes to make sure your liver function isn't impaired.
- If you're taking testosterone, you need to check your hematocrit level, because raised levels can have serious health implications including irregular blood pressure and risk to cardiovascular function.
Note: To use the finger prick test, you need to be 16 or older and not taking spironolactone. Vitall, the service provider, will send your blood test results directly to your email address.
If you're taking spironolactone, you'll need a venous blood sample. You can get this through an online blood test service of your choosing, through your GP if they're willing to help, or at a private clinic/hospital.
If you need a Blood Test Referral Letter to advise your GP or healthcare provider, you can purchase one through the Treatment Recommendation form for £20. The letter explains why you need blood tests and which ones you'll need to get (read more here: Obtaining Letters and Reports).
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