Hormone Replacement Therapy
BIOIDENTICAL HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY
What is bioidentical hormone replacement therapy?
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, or BHRT, is hormone therapy that uses hormones that are structurally similar to those found within the human body. Bioidentical hormones replicate the body’s natural molecular structure and therefore are tolerated by the body more efficiently, reducing unwanted side effects. Bioidentical hormones in the form of pellets are inserted into the upper buttocks and absorbed over time. Pellets provide continuous hormone replacement without the highs and lows associated with daily/weekly injections, creams, and tablets. Pellets further minimize the occurrence of symptoms. Before insertion, labs are drawn and reviewed to determine the appropriate hormone replacement levels needed. Hormone replacement may include estrogen and testosterone.
BIOIDENTICAL HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY FAQs
Pellets can vary between 3-6 months. Duration will depend on gender, weight, deficiency levels, and absorption rates.
Patients can resume normal activities right away. However, it would be best to refrain from strenuous activity, exercise, and baths or pools for the first week after the pellet insertion.
Signs of hormone deficiencies can include low energy, sexual dysfunction, loss of muscle mass, elevated blood sugar, elevated cholesterol, decreased bone mass, stress, mood swings, irritability, fatigue, brain fog, night sweats, hot flashes or flushes, reduced sex drive, weight gain, trouble sleeping, irritability, anxiousness, low mood, and discomfort during intercourse.
You can expect an increase in energy, improved memory, and concentration. You will experience a better quality of sleep, improved sexual performance, reduced mood swings and hot flashes, and a reduction in muscle and joint pain.
It is easier to lose weight, especially the extra weight in your midsection, if your hormones are balanced.