Investigation

Trans people are turning to the unregulated ‘grey market’ for hormones

Unable to wait years for the NHS, trans people are DIY-ing with hormones bought online from unregulated sources

By Maysa Pritilata

Trans people are turning to the unregulated ‘grey market’ for hormones — Many trans people are opting to purchase hormones from online providers | Pexels (composite image by James Battershill)

Published: April 12, 2023, 10:00 pm

Warning: this article contains mentions of suicidal ideation

Years-long NHS wait lists are driving trans people into the unregulated online “grey market” in their search for gender-affirming hormones – despite the potential health risks.

Unlike patients who go private, these DIYers administer medication themselves (or with another person’s help, but not necessarily a medical professional), do not necessarily receive any monitoring, and have little guarantee of the purity of the medication.

The General Medical Council, which regulates UK medical professionals, told openDemocracy: “Many trans patients are facing long waits for specialist advice and treatment, increasing the risk they may turn to unregulated and potentially dangerous sources.”

If you or someone you know is impacted by themes or subjects raised in this article, the following organisations can help.

Galop

Support for LGBTQ+ people who have experienced domestic or sexual abuse, hate crime, 'conversion practices' and other forms of violence.

Phone: 0800 999 5428. Website including live chat: galop.org.uk

Mermaids

Support and information for trans young people, and their families, friends and supportive communities. Helpline: 0808 801 0400 (Monday-Friday 9am-9pm). Website: Mermaids. Webchat, online help and support line: Contact Mermaids

Switchboard

National support line for anyone wishing to discuss topics related to their sexuality and gender identity including sexual health and relationships.

Phone: 0300 330 0630 (10am-10pm). Website: Switchboard

LGBT Foundation

A range of services, support and information for lesbian, gay, bi and trans people.

Phone: 0345 330 3030 (Daily 10am-10pm). Website: LGBT Foundation

The Rainbow Project

A range of services for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and/or asexual people and their families in Northern Ireland.

Phone: 028 9031 9030. Website: Rainbow Project

LGBT Health and Wellbeing

Services for LGBTQ+ people and their friends and families in Scotland.

Phone: 0300 123 2523 (Tue & Wed 12-9pm). Website: LGBT Health and Wellbeing

If you or someone you know are feeling emotionally distressed, the following organisations offer advice and support.

Samaritans

Available for anyone struggling to cope. They provide a safe place to talk 24 hours a day.

Phone: 116 123. Website: Samaritans

Shout

A 24/7 text service, free on all major mobile networks, for anyone struggling to cope and in need of immediate help.

Text SHOUT to 85258. Website: Shout

Papyrus

Support, practical advice and information to young people considering suicide and can also offer help and advice if you're concerned about someone you know.

Phone: 0800 068 41 41. Website: Papyrus

Lifeline

Support to people suffering distress or despair in Northern Ireland, regardless of age or district.

Phone: 0808 808 8000 (24 hours a day). Website: Lifeline

Community Advice & Listening Line

Emotional support and information on mental health and related matters to people in Wales.

Phone: 0800 132 737 (24/7) or text "help" to 81066. Website: Community Advice & Listening Line

Breathing Space

Confidential phone and web based service for people in Scotland experiencing low mood, depression or anxiety.

Phone: 0800 83 85 87 (Mon-Thu 6pm-2am, weekends 24 hours). A BSL service is also available via the website: Breathing Space

Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide

Exists to meet the needs and break the isolation of those bereaved by the suicide of a close relative or friend.

Website: Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide

Nightlines

Confidential, anonymous, non-judgemental support services run by students for students.

Website: Nightlines

This article is published under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International licence. If you have any queries about republishing please contact us. Please check individual images for licensing details.