What is hormone replacement therapy? Is hormone therapy right for you? There are a number of factors to consider and questions you should answer for yourself before proceeding.

Why consider bioidentical hormone replacement therapy?

People who receive hormone replacement therapy find that they have an improvement in their libido, sexual performance and a desire to feel pleasure in their lives.  Although testosterone is commonly thought of as a male hormone,  both male and female genders need it for adequate sexual desire, energy and performance.  Some benefits of testosterone treatment are an improvement in sexual response (libido) and function, increase the tone, strength, and mass of the muscles; it also facilitates in stronger bones, improves mental clarity, lowers cholesterol, improves energy, sleep, and stamina.  There are several other important hormones that play a role in overall health as well. 

Women who receive DHEA hormones, estrogen/progesterone, get cessation of menopausal symptoms, a boost in their outlook and mood, improved brain function, bone density, and muscle strength.  Cortisol is a hormone that helps to balance many other hormones in our bodies. It helps to strengthen the immune system and body metabolism.  Cortisol plays a role in our glucose metabolism, thyroid balance and sleep.  With all hormones, it is the delicate balance that makes us feel healthy and vibrant.

Do topical hormones work?

The key benefit of topical estrogen, testosterone and progesterone is that it is easily absorbed through the skin.  Using topical therapy allows for easy adjustment in dosing.  Once the dosage is determined,  the hormones can be combined to allow for easy application in one syringe.  Topical hormones can be discontinued and are the recommended option for estrogen therapy.

Is oral therapy an option?

Women may opt to take progesterone orally.  This can be a great option to help with sleep.  Oral progesterone has a shorter life span in the body than topical,  so in some instances, both oral and topical forms may be used, However, oral estrogen is not recommended as it can increase the risk of blood clots. Known risk factors for blood clots such as obesity, age, and genetic mutations (e.g. Factor V Leiden) are worsened with oral estrogen and progestins, but again topical administration does not carry this risk.  Currently, there are no oral forms of testosterone that are safe for use.

What about hormone pellet therapy?

Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy(BHRT) can be done by inserting small pellets under the skin in the buttock area.  This is called hormone pellet therapy. These pellets contain custom-compounded hormones that are gradually released to keep hormone levels steady for months. In contrast, topical hormone therapy tends to fluctuate more, with peaks occurring several hours after application followed by a rapid decline in levels.  Pellets are a great option for progesterone and testosterone therapy.  Because estrogen can potentially cause menstrual bleeding,  it is not recommended for use in pellet therapy in women that have an intact uterus.

How are the effects of treatment monitored?

Bio-identical hormone therapy does require regular monitoring.  This can be done by either saliva or serum and is dependent on the form of hormone therapy used.  Testing is done about every 3 to 4 months.  Adjustments in dosing are based on lab results as well as symptoms.  Every person is unique, so each of us requires a personalized treatment to meet our own individual needs.

Join us for a FREE seminar with Q&A to answer your questions on Thursday, November 29th 6 pm at Rocky Mountain Laser College, 651 S. Garrison St. Lakewood, CO.

There will be a drawing for a FREE initial hormone pellet therapy with Dr. Sohayda,  Free nutritional consult with Erin RN, and a FREE initial Femilift treatment.