What is Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Women: Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy is most commonly used to treat the signs and symptoms of menopause, which can include (but are not limited to): hot flashes, insomnia, fatigue, and mood lability.
Men: The most common use of bio-identical hormones in men is to treat low testosterone. Testosterone levels begin to decrease around age 30-35 and can cause symptoms such as fatigue, low libido, and difficulty maintaining erections amongst others.
What are Hormone Pellets?
Hormone pellets are individually compounded by a specialty pharmacy, using strict federal guidelines. The pharmacist compounds estrogen and testosterone from plant sources into pellets that are molecularly identical to what our own bodies create.
The pellets resemble a grain of rice and are inserted in the fatty tissue beneath the skin and mimic the actions of gradual and healthy hormone release into the bloodstream. The hormone pellet implantation procedure is easily performed in the office.
What is the goal of Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy (BHRT)?
Most patients experience:
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Stronger metabolism- decrease fatigue, improve muscle mass
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Increased Energy -physical and mental
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Improved Body Functions- better mood and sleep
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Improved Sexual Function- improved libido
Hormone therapy can also reduce the risks of: cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer's disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, macular degeneration, lower cholesterol, cataracts, and improve immune function.
Hormones are powerful chemicals that require a delicate balance in the body. Some individuals may thrive with higher levels of hormones, while other individuals feel the best at normal-to-low levels of hormones. Most people have noticeable and bothersome symptoms that interfere with daily life when their hormone levels are very low. It is important to find a competent provider to formulate a treatment plan that is right for you.
The most common functions of hormones are:
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Growth
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Blood pressure regulation
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Stress management
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Regulate metabolism
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Carbohydrate, protein, and lipid metabolism
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Bone growth
Throughout life, hormone levels fluctuate and change. At West Side Wellness we take pride in getting to know our patients. Our treatment recommendations are individualized and are congruent with current evidence based practices in this field.
