Hormones affect most organs and most every function of the body. Energy level, metabolism (weight gain or loss), stamina, mental clarity and focus, libido, arousal, and sexual performance are all influenced by hormone production.
For women, as hormone production declines, common symptoms are abdominal weight gain, reduced libido and arousal, mental fog, fatigue, lack of motivation, vaginal dryness, hot flashes, mood swings, difficulty dealing with stress and anxiety and more.
For men, reduced testosterone can lead to lack of motivation, fatigue, lack of stamina, difficulty building muscle, abdominal weight gain, reduced sexual function and mental fog. Interestingly, we are seeing low testosterone levels in younger men even commonly in their 30s.
BHRT FAQS
What is the difference between synthetic hormones and bioidentical hormones?
Synthetic hormones are manufactured to mimic the actions of your own hormones but the structure differs from your own hormones. This can lead to similar but not identical actions to your hormones and can also allow for increased risk of side effects. Bioidentical hormones are made from a type of yam and are identical in molecular structure to your own hormones. This allows identical biological actions to your hormones and reduces the risks of side effects compared to synthetic hormones.
How do you evaluate my hormone levels?
We will have you fill out a detailed survey of your symptoms and concerns and we will then draw a blood panel looking at thyroid hormones, testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, certain vitamin levels, kidney function, liver function, cell counts, electrolyte levels and blood sugar. Dr. Gentry or one of our nurse practitioners will meet with you for about 30-45 minutes to determine the best plan of care for you specifically. When is the last time your doctor or nurse practitioner spent that long with you?
How can I take the hormones?
For women, we offer topical daily creams or pellets that are inserted every 3-4 months into the fat of your hip. Our medical professionals can help determine which method is best for you. Progesterone is frequently prescribed as a pill.
For men, we offer topical daily creams, weekly injections (in clinic or at home), or pellets that are inserted every 4-5 months in the fat of the hip.
What are the benefits of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT)?
Most of our patients experience improvements in:
Mental focus and clarity
Stamina
Motivation
Libido
Sexual arousal and performance
Vaginal Dryness
Sleep
Anxiety and/or depression
Fat loss
Muscle gain
Mood swings
Thinning or overly dry skin
Hot Flashes
What hormones do you replace?
The hormones used in our BHRT treatments plans vary between patients. Depending on your age, symptoms, hormone levels, past medical history and other factors we may replace testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone.
Wait a second… You give testosterone to women?
Absolutely! It is a common misconception that women do not have testosterone and men do not have estrogen. Men certainly have more testosterone than women but testosterone is very important for women as well. Testosterone replacement can help improve muscle growth and recovery, increase bone density, improve libido and sexual function, enhance mental clarity, improve stamina and more. Interestingly, some newer studies suggest that testosterone replacement may reduce the risk of breast cancer in women.
What if I am still menstruating?
Many of our patients are still menstruating, but can still benefit from BHRT. You do not have to be post-menopausal to qualify for BHRT.
Am I too young for bioidentical hormone replacement therapy?
No. We treat women and men as early as their 30s.
Do I have to stop taking birth control to start BHRT?
Our practitioners will discuss this with you during your consultation to determine what is best for you. Because everyone is different, this is something we will evaluate with you.
Where do I start? How do I schedule a consultation?
Contact us today to schedule your BHRT consultation and start your journey to better health.
