What is Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), also known as bioidentical hormone therapy or natural hormone therapy, is a term referring to the use of hormones that are identical on a molecular level with endogenous hormones in hormone replacement therapy.
Who needs Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Almost all of us over the age of 40 (and in many cases over 30) begin to experience hormone imbalance. Over our lifetime, we are exposed to environmental and dietary toxins, which contribute to the natural decline of hormones as we age. In order to balance your hormones for optimal health and wellness, it is critical to be evaluated by a highly trained physician - including comprehensive lab testing and in depth initial evaluation, prior to creating a personalized treatment plan.
As a result of hormone imbalance related to these conditions, you may be experiencing one or a combination of what have become known as the classic symptoms of aging:
- Weight gain
- Limited energy
- Hair loss
- Low sex drive
- Depression
- Mood swings
- Sleeplessness
- Poor concentration
- Memory loss
- Fatigue
If symptoms like these have begun to affect your quality of life, you could be a candidate for Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT).
Can Bio-Identical Hormones Be Used in Both Men and Women?
Men begin losing testosterone at a rate of 1-3% per year beginning at the age of 30. Current medical research now defines a male equivalent to menopause as andropause. The signs of andropause and related hormonal issues include: muscle loss, weight gain, fatigue, sleeplessness, gynecomastia, hot flashes, night sweats, low libido or sex drive, irritability, depression, hair loss, erectile dysfunction, urinary problems, and memory loss. Fatigue, lack of mental acuity, loss of libido or sex drive, and difficulty achieving or sustaining erection are the most common symptoms of low testosterone or hormonal imbalance as a man ages.
Millions of women in the United States suffer from a hormonal imbalance, whether it is early menopause, perimenopause symptoms, perimenopause weight gain, adrenal fatigue, menopause, or premenstrual symptoms (PMS). The signs of menopause and related hormonal issues include: weight gain, hot flahses, night sweats, mood swings, depression, low libido, insomnia, fatigue, memory loss, fibroids, endometiosis, and vaginal dryness. Hot flashes, night sweats, trouble sleeping and weight gain are the most common symptoms of hormonal imbalance as a woman ages. Perimenopause weight gain is often times misdiagnosed and is one of the first signs of hormonal imbalance. These signs of menopause or early menopause and related conditions are also connected to your stress levels, poor nutrition, lack of exercise and the environmental toxins your body is exposed to on a daily basis.
Hormonal imbalances are the root of many chronic health problems and can increase your risk of serious disease. In women, the symptoms often first appear in perimenopause or menopause, when hormones (estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone) production begins to diminish. In men, hormone imbalances are at the root of many chronic health problems and can increase the risk of serious disease. The good news is that hormone losses and imbalances are correctible. Through the use of bioidentical hormones, men and women can not only be relieved of the symptoms, but also effectively protect themselves against diabetes, osteoporosis, and heart disease, while making them feel healthier, more energetic, and younger than they have in years.
What is Hormone Pellet Therapy?
Pellet Therapy uses bio-identical hormones derived from plant sources to replicate the body's normal hormone levels. Patients have found that bio-identical hormone replacement therapy with pellet implants is extremely effective. The implants are tiny and are placed under the skin in the buttocks region and allow for a consistent release of small, physiologic doses of hormones providing optimal therapy. Unlike typical oral and transdermal forms of therapy, which produce "roller coaster" hormone levels, resulting in mood and energy fluctuations for the patient, Medical Hormone Pellet Therapy is the only method of hormone therapy that provides sustained hormone levels throughout the day for up to 4-6 months, without any "roller coaster" effect. Because the hormones used are completely natural, Pellet Therapy is ideal for patients wanting the benefits of a natural hormone, without the drawbacks of a synthetic hormone.
The good news, for both men and women, is that hormone loss and imbalance is easily correctible. Through a simple blood test, we can determine your hormone levels and your unique bioidentical hormone needs.
Schedule a complimentary consultation today with Dr. Fawn Winkelman by calling 561-826-6650. She will personally evaluate you and determine is bio-identical hormone replacement therapy and pellet therapy would be most helpful for you.
