What is Hormone Replacement Therapy for Women?
Hormone Replacement Therapy, also called Menopausal Hormone Therapy, is used to treat the symptoms of menopause and perimenopause. In these phases when hormones naturally decline, hormone replacement therapy aims to compensate by administering hormones like estrogen and progesterone.
Women's Health Initiative Study on HRT - Is Hormone Therapy Safe?
The hormonal deficit of post menopause is not only linked to the classic hot flashes, but also to a higher risk of chronic diseases.
Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) adequately treats climacteric symptoms and can prevent some chronic diseases such as osteoporosis. The Women's Health Initiative (WHI) study, which indicated risks of MHT in elderly postmenopausal women, caused a massive withdrawal of this therapy in 1991.
But, in recent years the results of the WHI have been challenged because of methodological problems by several studies indicating that, if MHT is initiated early and the non-oral route is preferred, the risks could be minimized and it could improve not only the quality of life but also reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
However, the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends against the use of MHT for the prevention of chronic diseases, a position that has been challenged by publications of the North American Menopause Society and the International Menopause Society.
We believe bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (b HRT) can be done effectively and safely when all female hormones are prescribed in balance and when levels are not driven to supra-physiologic (very high) such as is seen with pellet therapy or injections.
The term "bioidentical" means the hormones in the product are chemically identical to those your body produces.
Familiar examples of hormones that women are prescribed that are not bio identical include ALL birth control pills and Premarin.
To get started, call to make an Establishing Appointment.
How Does Bioidentical Hormone Therapy Work in St. Petersburg, FL?
Bioidentical Hormone Therapy (BHRT) uses hormones that are chemically identical to the ones naturally produced in the body. These identical hormones are usually derived from plant sources and are formulated to match the molecular structure and function of the declining hormones in the body.
Common BHRT supplements include estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. Once delivered, the bioidentical hormones bind to the same receptors in the body as natural hormones and trigger the same physiological responses. As a result, BHRT helps restore hormone balance and regulates the bodily functions disrupted by deficient natural hormones.
Since every woman's body is different, BHRT is customized based on the hormone levels of each individual, her symptoms, and medical history. This personalized approach allows practitioners to administer precise amounts of doses of either one hormone or a combination of hormones in the body.
Signs You May Need Hormone Therapy
If you are experiencing symptoms related to hormonal imbalance or menopause, it might be time to consider bioidentical hormone therapy.
Understanding Hormonal Imbalances
Hormones are chemical messengers that travel through your bloodstream, instructing tissues and organs on how to function. They help control major processes in the body. Because of their vital role in mood regulation, metabolism, and reproduction, even the smallest change in hormone levels can lead to serious consequences on your health.
Hormonal imbalance occurs when you have too much or too little of a certain hormone. It is common in women in menopause and menstruation but it is not limited to any age group — it can affect women of all ages. Hormonal imbalances often go unnoticed and show up only through physical symptoms.
Here are a few symptoms you may experience if you have hormonal imbalance, suggesting you should seek hormone replacement therapy.
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Fatigue
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Mood swings
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Changes in libido
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Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
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Hot flashes
What are the Benefits of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement?
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Reduces hot flashes and night sweats
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Improves sleep cycle and sleep quality
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Reduces mood swings and improves overall emotional well-being
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Improves focus, concentration, and memory
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Restores vaginal health and increases libido
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Restores energy levels and reduces fatigue
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Helps maintain bone density and improves muscle function
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Promotes fat loss and improves metabolism
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Reduces hair thinning and hair loss
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Boosts immune function and helps the body respond to stress and illnesses
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Reduces the risk of hormone-related health problems like heart disease and osteoporosis
How is Bioidentical Hormone Therapy Administered?
BHRT can be administered in a number of ways. There is no best way to take bioidentical hormones. You can choose the correct route to administer estrogen and progesterone after consulting with a professional at our medical clinic.
Oral Pills for Hormonal Imbalance
Hormonal Creams for Menopause
Estrogen Patches
Oral pills are easy to take and are also widely used. However, some of the hormones may break down in the liver before entering the bloodstream.
These creams are applied directly to the skin, allowing hormones to penetrate into the bloodstream through the skin.
HRT patches are adhesive patches worn on the skin and release hormones through the skin and into the bloodstream.
Hormonal Injections
These injections deliver bioidentical hormones either into the muscle or just under the skin.
BHRT Pellets
It is a method of hormone replacement therapy that uses tiny implantable pellets which are inserted under the skin. They release a steady supply of hormones into the bloodstream over several months.
Why Do We Choose HRT Creams and Dissolvables?
At Docs Outside the Box, we prefer BHRT creams and HRT dissolvable tablets due to their benefits over other delivery routes for hormone replacement.
Creams and dissolvables offer a gentler way of delivering bioidentical hormones unlike hormonal pellets known to cause sudden spikes and crashes in hormone levels. Creams and dissolvables are directly delivered into the bloodstream, bypassing the liver and reducing the risk of breakdown. Plus, they allow a steady supply of estrogen and progesterone to the body, giving time to women to adjust to the hormonal changes.
What to Expect During Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)
Here is a guide to help you prepare for a BHRT appointment at a women’s wellness center, along with the aftercare instructions for hormone replacement therapy. Please note that these instructions may change based on your physician’s guidance and your customized hormone therapy treatment plan.
Preparing for a Hormone Therapy Appointment
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Make a list of questions you want to ask your physician.
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Bring medical insurance and relevant medical records.
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Let your doctor know about your current medications.
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Discuss your goals for treatment and overall health.
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Be prepared for follow-up appointments.
What to Do While on HRT?
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Don’t skip or change doses without the doctor’s approval.
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Apply creams on a dry and clean area.
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Maintain a healthy lifestyle including having a balanced diet and taking adequate rest.
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Monitor and report any side effects to the doctor.
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Avoid smoking and limit both alcohol and caffeine.
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Stay hydrated.
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Attend all follow-up appointments with your doctor.
Getting Started on BHRT in St.Petersburg, FL
At Docs Outside the Box, we follow a personalized and integrative approach to BHRT with a whole-person focus. Here is a guide to help you understand our approach to hormone replacement therapy.
Consultation: At the BHRT appointment, we do a detailed assessment of your health, hormonal profile, physical symptoms, and understand your wellness goals for a successful start to your BHRT journey.
Treatment and Administration: We believe in providing a customized hormone therapy plan to all of our patients. Our team of holistic professionals works closely with medical professionals to give you the best treatment plan. Our preferred methods for delivering bioidentical hormones are dissolvable and HRT creams.
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