Gender-Affirming Care Peterborough & Ontario
Gender-Affirming Care
Thoughtful, evidence-based care for transgender, non-binary, gender-diverse, and questioning individuals
Rise Women’s Health is committed to providing affirming, evidence-based healthcare in a respectful, supportive, and inclusive environment.
Gender-affirming care is highly individualized. Some people are seeking information and education, some are exploring their options, and others are looking for support with ongoing treatment or navigating next steps in their care.
What We Can Support
Whether you are exploring your options, questioning, considering treatment, seeking a second opinion, supporting a loved one, or continuing an established care plan, you deserve access to healthcare that is informed, collaborative, and free from judgment.
The clinic’s approach emphasizes education, collaborative decision-making, and individualized care designed to support each person’s goals, wellbeing, and overall health throughout their healthcare journey.
Gender Identity & Healthcare Options
Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy
Hormone Management & Monitoring
Fertility & Reproductive Health Considerations
Support Letters & Documentation
Sexual & Reproductive Healthcare
Menopause & Hormonal Health
Navigating Healthcare Systems
Second Opinions & Care Navigation
Treatment Goals & Expectations
Care That Meets You Where You Are
There is no single pathway through gender-affirming care.
Some patients arrive with a clear understanding of their goals. Others may still be gathering information, exploring their identity, or deciding what feels right for them.
Appointments are designed to provide a supportive space for discussion, education, and informed decision-making while recognizing that each person’s experience is unique.
An Informed Consent Approach
Gender-affirming care is based on shared decision-making and informed consent. The goal is to ensure patients have the information and support they need to make decisions that align with their values, goals, and circumstances.
Discussions may include:
- Individual goals and priorities
- Expected benefits and limitations of treatment
- Potential risks and side effects
- Monitoring and follow-up requirements
- Fertility preservation and reproductive considerations
- Long-term health considerations
- Available treatment and support options
Inclusive Care for Gender-Diverse Patients
Rise Women’s Health welcomes transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse individuals across all areas of the clinic.
Patients do not need to be seeking gender-affirming care to access services. Individuals are welcome throughout the clinic and may seek support for concerns such as menopause, hormonal health, contraception, menstrual concerns, pelvic health, sexual health, and other services offered by Rise Women’s Health.
The goal is to provide respectful, evidence-based care in an environment where patients feel safe, supported, and heard.
Support for Families and Parents
Gender diversity can bring questions, uncertainty, and a desire for reliable information for parents, caregivers, and family members.
Some families are looking for guidance after a child has recently come out. Others may be seeking help understanding available healthcare options, navigating resources, supporting a loved one, or communicating more effectively during a time of change.
Appointments may provide education, discussion of common questions and concerns, and support for families who want to better understand how to support their child or loved one in an affirming and informed way.
Families do not need to have everything figured out before seeking support. Questions are welcome.
Is This Service Right for You?
What to Expect
Patients may be asked to complete intake forms and provide relevant health information prior to booking. Following intake review, patients will receive information regarding:
- Appointment Suitability
- Anticipated Visit Length
- Consultation Fees
- Recommended Next Steps
The goal of consultations is ensure patients have the information, support, and guidance needed to make informed decisions about their healthcare.
Important Information
- Virtual care may not be appropriate for all concerns and some patients may require in-person assessment, testing, or specialist consultation.
- Rise Women's Health does not replace emergency care, primary care, specialist care, or mental health services.
- Treatment recommendations are individualized and based on current evidence, clinical history, patient goals, and shared decision-making.
Gender-Affirming Care FAQs
Do I need a referral?
No. Most gender-affirming care services are available through self-referral. Healthcare professional referrals are also welcome.
Do I need to be certain about my gender identity before booking?
No. Some people seek gender-affirming care with a clear understanding of their goals, while others are exploring their identity or looking for information before making any decisions. Questions and exploration are welcome.
Do I have to start hormone therapy?
No. Gender-affirming care is individualized. Some people seek hormone therapy, while others are looking for education, support, documentation, fertility counselling, or discussion of available options. There is no expectation that every patient will pursue medical treatment.
Can I transfer my hormone care to Rise Women's Health?
In many cases, yes. Patients who are already receiving gender-affirming hormone therapy may seek ongoing monitoring, follow-up care, or a second opinion. Suitability depends on your individual circumstances and the services available at the time of referral.
Can families or caregivers book an appointment?
Yes. Parents, caregivers, and family members who are seeking education or support in understanding gender-diverse healthcare are welcome to request an appointment when appropriate.
Do I need a diagnosis before seeking care?
No. You do not need a formal diagnosis of gender dysphoria or a previous assessment to request a consultation. Appointments are tailored to your goals, questions, and stage of care.