Bio-identical Hormone Therapy &
Bio-identical Hormones
Bio-identical hormones provide a significant advantage over standard hormone therapy because they're structurally identical to the hormones naturally produced by your body. Whereas standard hormone therapy often uses synthetically produced hormones, the bio-identical counterparts harmonize seamlessly with your body's hormone receptors.
Think of them as a key that perfectly fits the lock - your body's hormone receptors. This precise fit enhances their effectiveness and can minimize potential side effects. So, bio-identical hormones not only help to restore balance, but they do so in a manner that's in sync with your body's natural rhythm.
Are Bio-identical hormones for you?
Bio-identical hormones could be an excellent fit for you if you're experiencing symptoms of hormonal imbalance, such as fatigue, mood swings, weight gain, low sexual interest, or sleep disruptions. They can be particularly beneficial during life transitions like perimenopause, menopause or andropause.
The beauty of bio-identical hormones is their unique ability to match your body's natural hormone structure, allowing your body to metabolize them as if they were your own. This makes them an appealing choice for many looking for individualized, natural ways to restore hormonal balance.
However, it's important to remember that each person's body, health, and experiences are unique. Our team is here to guide you through this process, exploring whether bio-identical hormones are the right option for you.
For Women...
In our youth, our bodies are rich in the essential hormones for peak function. But as we age, hormone levels naturally decline, and we encounter signs of aging. Particularly for women, symptoms often onset during peri-menopause, including irritability, disrupted sleep, anxiety, and not feeling oneself. This phase can start at any point and typically lasts around 10 years leading up to menopause.
The sharp decline in hormones marking menopause can lead to an exacerbation of these symptoms. If left untreated, the toll on your life and health can be significant, with a notable decline in core health aspects such as bone strength, muscle mass, brain performance, skin health, and cardiovascular vitality.
The good news is that by restoring the hormones your body once naturally produced, we can alleviate these symptoms and maintain your key health functions, thereby countering the "slow slide" downhill.
Getting started usually involves simple saliva or blood tests to assess your hormonal levels. As hormone replacement is a process, certain adjustments will be necessary as we reintroduce these hormones to your body. While some symptoms improve within weeks, achieving more optimum results often takes a few months.
For Men...
Men's hormones are as vital to their health and well-being as women's, but they're often overlooked in conversations. Unlike the cyclical nature of female hormones, men's hormonal levels stay fairly constant, but they can slightly dip with age, typically around 1-2% annually post age-40.
Initially, this decrease may result in subtle changes. Questions like, "Am I as sharp as before? Why don't I feel as energized? Where did my zest for life go? Why is my waistline expanding?" may start to pop up. Alongside these, symptoms like muscle weakness, reduced stamina, joint pain, low energy, irritability, depression, and sleep difficulties may surface. Moreover, changes such as reduced sexual interest and performance, weight gain, and altered body composition with potentially more fat and less muscle can be associated with declining testosterone.
What is "Low-T"?
We can measure testosterone levels using blood, saliva, or urine tests. But it's crucial to note that optimal levels vary for each man, often depending on his levels during younger years. It's the shift away from your baseline that often leads to noticeable symptoms.
Easily addressing Low T with testosterone replacement can bring about marked improvement. Options include creams or gels, injections, or testosterone pellets inserted every 4-5 months at the office—a convenient method that keeps your testosterone levels steady.
Remember, testosterone is often referred to as the "LIFE FORCE" for men, and adequate replacement usually reignites that vigor. A simple test and evaluation is typically all it takes to begin restoring your vitality and embracing the life you've always desired. For an enlightening read on men's hormones, consider "The Testosterone Syndrome" by Eugene Shippen, MD. It's accessible, concise, and highlights the significant health benefits of balanced hormones.