What to Expect at Your First TRT Consultation
A step-by-step walkthrough.
6 min read
Your first TRT consultation sets the foundation for your treatment. Knowing what to expect — and what to ask — will help you get more out of the visit and make a more informed decision about whether TRT is right for you.
What Happens During the Consultation
Symptom Review
Your provider will ask about your symptoms: fatigue, low libido, brain fog, mood changes, reduced muscle mass, sleep issues. Be honest and thorough — this helps determine whether low testosterone is likely the cause.
Medical History
You'll discuss your general health history, any existing conditions (especially prostate issues, cardiovascular disease, or sleep apnea), current medications, and family history.
Lab Order
If the provider thinks TRT may be appropriate, they'll order blood work. Most require morning labs (testosterone levels are highest in the morning) before making a diagnosis.
Treatment Discussion
Some providers will walk you through treatment options during this initial visit. Others wait until lab results are back. Either way, this is a good time to ask about delivery methods, pricing, and what the ongoing process looks like.
What Labs Will Be Ordered?
A standard TRT lab panel typically includes:
Total Testosterone
Primary diagnostic marker
Free Testosterone
Shows bioavailable testosterone
LH & FSH
Identifies cause of low T
Estradiol (E2)
Baseline before treatment
PSA
Prostate screening
CBC (Complete Blood Count)
Checks red blood cell levels
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel
Liver and kidney function
SHBG
Affects free testosterone calculation
Questions to Ask Your Provider
- ?What delivery methods do you offer — injections, pellets, gels?
- ?Are labs included in the monthly fee, or billed separately?
- ?How often will I need to come in (or check in) after starting?
- ?What happens if my levels are too high or too low?
- ?Do you monitor estradiol and adjust for estrogen management?
- ?What's your protocol if I want to stop treatment?
- ?Are you licensed in my state (for telehealth providers)?
- ?What pharmacy do you use, and can I use my own?
Red Flags to Watch For
- ⚠Prescribing TRT without ordering labs first
- ⚠No discussion of estrogen management or monitoring
- ⚠Pressure to commit to a long-term contract before starting
- ⚠No clear protocol for ongoing monitoring
- ⚠Unable to explain what happens if you want to stop