Hormone Replacement

Hormonal imbalances can result from menopause, aging, surgery, or injury, causing disruptive symptoms.

Hormone replacement

About Hormone Replacement Therapy

Overview

These changes can affect both men and women, causing issues like anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, low libido, and mood swings that may seem out of the norm.

Fortunately, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) offers a solution to restore hormonal balance effectively. HRT can be administered in various forms, such as tablets, skin patches, gels, creams, injections, and pellets, providing relief for symptoms related to perimenopause, menopause, and low testosterone in men.

By undergoing hormone optimization with bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), which contains hormones identical to those naturally produced by the body, individuals can experience improvements in various areas of their health. From increased energy and mental clarity to enhanced libido and better sleep, BHRT therapy offers a safe and effective way to address hormonal imbalances.

Pros
  • Improves sleep
  • Improves sexual dysfunction and low libido
  • Improves mood and anxiety
  • Improves muscle strength abilities
  • Reduces vaginal dryness and itching
  • Relieves vasomotor symptoms like night sweats and hot flashes
  • Makes sex less painful and more enjoyable
  • Prevents osteoporosis and fractures
  • Reduces the risk of heart disease
  • Reduces the risk of dementia
Cons
  • Risks associated with HRT include endometrial cancer, blood clots, stroke, and breast cancer
  • Steps to lessen risks with HRT include starting within ten years of menopause, starting with lowest effective dose, taking progesterone/progestin, and getting regular pelvic exams and mammograms
  • BHRT from a compounded pharmacy is not FDA approved, leading to unreported side effects
  • Consumers may believe BHRT is safer due to lack of reported side effects, but this is not necessarily true
What to Expect

Patients can expect to see results from BHRT therapy in as little as four weeks, with many reporting significant benefits sooner. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if HRT is a suitable option, especially for those with specific risk factors such as hypertension, blood clots, or a history of certain cancers.

While concerns about cancer and weight gain may arise when considering HRT, current research suggests that the risks are dependent on the type of treatment and individual factors. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise can help manage any potential weight gain associated with hormonal changes.

Overall, hormone replacement therapy can relieve symptoms caused by hormonal imbalances, allowing individuals to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives. Consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for addressing your specific hormone-related concerns.

Results

Within a couple of weeks, patients may begin to see the benefits of hormone therapy.

Cost

The cost of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) varies depending on the type of therapy and the level of hormones required in each dose.

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Hormone replacement

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