Hormones are important for our health. Mood, metabolism, sexual function and sleep are some vital functions that hormones regulate in the body. Hormone levels start to decline from the 3rd decade of life and are more pronounced at later age, which can cause various physical and emotional symptoms. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can help balance hormones, improve quality of life and reduce signs of aging.
HRT is more personalized now than it has ever been, accessible and safer. Whether you are going through menopause, andropause, or want to improve your overall wellness, here’s what you need to know.
What Is Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
HRT involves replacing or supplementing hormones in the body that are no longer being produced at optimal levels due to aging, medical conditions, or surgery. HRT can help alleviate some of the disabling symptoms and improve overall health and quality of life
Why should Hormone Replacement Therapy be considered?
HRT for Men and women can be considered with onset of perimenopausal or andropausal symptoms like low libido, fatigue, reduced muscle mass, and depression, brain fog, sleep disturbances.
While the symptoms may vary, the most common ones include:
- Decreased sexual desire and activity
- Erectile dysfunction or reduced frequency of erections
- Hot flashes or night sweats
- Decreased muscle mass
- Mood swings (depression, irritability)
- Cognitive changes (poor memory and concentration)
- Loss of body hair
- Increased body fat
- Sleep disturbances
- Fatigue and low energy levels
Furthermore, Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is a type of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) that uses hormones that are identical to those produced by the body unlike standard hormone replacement therapy which can use synthetic hormones.
Certain bioidentical formulations are available, in specific formulations at pre-set doses, that are approved by FDA for HRT.
The treatment for Bio HRT is tailored to the individual’s specific needs and preferences. The physician will evaluate each patient based on lab tests and other key factors, including the patient’s age, medical history, symptoms, and overall health, to develop an optimized and personalized treatment plan.
Types of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) – Available Options
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is available in several forms, allowing individuals to choose the method that best suits their needs and lifestyle. Common delivery methods include:
- Sublingual Troches (BHRTs): Dissolvable tablets placed under the tongue for absorption through the mucous membranes.
- Patches: Transdermal patches applied to the skin that release hormones steadily over time.
- Injections: Hormones administered via intramuscular injections, often at regular intervals.
- Gels or Creams (BHRTs): Topical formulations applied directly to the skin, allowing hormone absorption through the skin.
- Pellets: Small pellets inserted under the skin that release testosterone over time (currently not offered at Jupiter Gardens Primary Care & Anti-aging).
Your healthcare provider will discuss the best method based on your symptoms and lifestyle.
Benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy
- Increased energy and vitality
- Improved mood and mental clarity
- Enhanced libido and improved sexual function
- Increased muscle mass and strength
- Improved sleep
- Improved vasomotor symptoms like hot flashes.
- Improved bone density
Is HRT Right for You?
HRT may not be appropriate for everyone and for some People with certain underlying medical conditions, careful risk stratification is needed prior to initiating HRT with some risks involved like any other medications
Alternatives to HRT
Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy BMI, a healthy diet, and stress management can naturally ease symptoms.
If you suspect you may have any of the above-mentioned symptoms, you may have low hormones, it’s important to discuss your symptoms, undergo appropriate testing and explore treatment options with your healthcare provider. Together, you can carefully weigh the potential benefits and risks of hormone therapy and determine the best path forward based on your individual health needs.
Conclusion
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can be a game-changer for both women and men experiencing symptoms due to hormonal imbalances. Whether it’s easing menopausal symptoms in women or restoring testosterone levels in men, HRT offers significant benefits. However, it’s crucial to approach HRT with a clear understanding of its potential risks and benefits, and to work closely with a healthcare provider to ensure the best treatment plan for your individual needs.
If you think HRT might be right for you, schedule a consultation with a doctor to explore your options. With proper guidance, HRT can help improve your overall well-being and quality of life.
For personalized care and expert insight, consider reaching out to Dr. Pattem at Jupiter Gardens Primary Care. Dr. Pattem offers compassionate, customized treatment plans to help patients regain balance, vitality, and confidence.
