Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) involves using hormones that are molecularly identical to those produced naturally in the body to supplement declining hormone levels. As we age, hormone levels often decline causing various symptoms and an overall decrease in vitality. Using bioidentical hormones can help restore optimal hormone levels, improve symptoms related to hormonal imbalance, and enhance quality of life.
BHRT differs from traditional hormone replacement therapy in that the hormones used are structurally the same as those found in the human body rather than being synthetic. This allows them to function in the body just as our own hormones would.
At Hormone Health Institute in North Palm Beach, we specialize in customized bioidentical hormone replacement therapy to help our patients look and feel their best. We take the time to understand your unique hormonal needs and create tailored treatment plans using top quality bioidentical hormones.
The first step in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is assessing current hormone levels through comprehensive lab testing. This provides insight into which hormones may be out of balance and causing unwanted symptoms.
Some key hormones we often test for include:
Estrogen is considered the "feminine" hormone but is important for both men and women. Low estrogen can lead to:
Testing estradiol and estrone gives us an understanding of total circulating estrogen levels.
Progesterone works together with estrogen to regulate the menstrual cycle and support pregnancy in women. Low progesterone can manifest as:
Progesterone testing can uncover relative estrogen dominance, even if estrogen is in the normal range.
Testosterone, often considered the "masculine" hormone, plays key roles in both men and women related to:
Testing free and total testosterone provides the full picture of testosterone status.
Understanding patient symptoms along with hormone testing allows our practitioners to determine optimal hormone balance and create customized treatment plans.
There are a variety of bioidentical hormone options that can be used to supplement levels including:
- Estriol - Estradiol - Estrone
The method of administration is also customized based on patient needs and preferences:
Pellet therapy involves inserting tiny hormone pellets under the skin which release consistent doses of hormones over a 3-6 month period. This avoids the need for daily administration.
Compounded bioidentical hormones are specially prepared in a pharmacy for each patient. This allows for very precise dosing meeting specific needs.
At Hormone Health Institute, our board certified healthcare providers specialize exclusively in hormonal balance, having completed extensive training in:
We take time to listen and understand your unique needs, goals and preferences. This allows us to create tailored treatment plans utilizing high quality bioidentical hormones, advanced testing, precision dosing and effective protocols.
Our onsite compounding pharmacy prepares customized formulations meeting specialized dosing needs. This delivers consistent, reliable results.
We also provide lifestyle guidance related to nutrition, movement, stress reduction and supplementation to support hormone balance from multiple angles.
Hormone Health Institute has served the North Palm Beach area since 2005 helping thousands restore hormonal harmony, energy and vitality. We look forward to working together!
Bioidentical hormones are not necessarily safer or more effective than synthetic hormones for menopausal symptoms. More research is needed to fully understand the long-term risks and benefits of bioidentical hormone therapy compared to traditional hormone replacement therapy.
Declining hormones often occur slowly over many years, with vague symptoms that can be overlooked or attributed to other causes. Having a high index of suspicion is key for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Some key signs and symptoms to be aware of include:
Relying only on symptoms gives an incomplete picture. Many patients have hormonal decline with minimal overt symptoms. That’s why laboratory testing is so important for accurate diagnosis.
At Hormone Health Institute, we specialize in advanced hormone testing allowing earlier detection for timely treatment. Even mild hormone imbalance can degrade vitality and accelerate aging. Don’t overlook subtle signs!
We also customize treatment not just based on current levels, but optimal levels for your age and gender. Feeling “normal” may still mean falling short of your health potential!
With so many hormone options, delivery methods and dosing strategies, selecting the optimal bioidentical HRT regimen can feel overwhelming.
That’s why our consultations focus extensively on understanding your unique needs, goals, health history and lifestyle to guide customized protocols.
Some key considerations include:
Open conversations clarify priorities and align treatment options. We'll explain rationales and tradeoffs, with patient needs steering decisions.
You also have full access to your testing and treatment data through our secure online portal - facilitating transparency and participation.
While hormone therapy is highly customizable, within safe ranges, there are established best practices over decades. Our expertise navigates the nuances efficiently.
Bioidentical hormones can help restore balance quickly, but certain lifestyle factors also substantially impact hormone levels. Optimizing these augments treatment impact:
Following a nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory diet provides building blocks for hormones while avoiding trigger foods. We offer personalized nutrition guidance.
Regular exercise boosts testosterone and growth hormone naturally. Targeted movements also relieve hormone-related pain. We share tailored tips.
Chronic stress raises cortisol which disrupts other hormones. Building resilience through mind-body practices like meditation has profound benefits.
Many key hormones like testosterone and growth hormone peak during deep sleep. Prioritizing 7-9 hours nightly optimizes this rejuvenation.
Certain vitamins, minerals, adaptogens and botanicals support hormone pathways. We identify any nutritional gaps for you to augment with quality supplements.
While we navigate all aspects of biohormone replacement, you play an active role too through daily lifestyle choices. We empower lasting thriving!
Beginning bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is straightforward but does require some patience as it takes time to restore optimal balance. Have realistic expectations around:
1) Initial Consultation
2) Follow Up Visit
3) Allow Time for Effect
4) Follow Up Testing
While it varies individually, most patients see significant improvements in 3-6 months, with full effects taking 9-12 months as hormones re-balance.
The key is adjusting dosing deliberately based on frequent testing and monitoring - avoiding over or under-replacement. Patience pays off with restoring vibrancy!
Hormone decline is often falsely seen as an inevitable consequence of aging to be tolerated. However, the distressing symptoms and descent in health are NOT normal when optimized.
Fortunately there are more effective and proven options than ever before to sustain vitality as you age. With bioidentical hormone replacement therapy many patients report:
Despite excellent safety data when properly dosed and monitored, some still have misconceptions about risks. Our consultations dispel myths with facts - empowering informed decisions.
Ultimately if your current quality of life is less than satisfying, and hormone imbalance may be contributory, identifying options to feel better is wise. Especially considering how profoundly hormones affect all body systems, acting now preserves health.
We guide patients from mid-20s and beyond through smooth transitions for thriving longevity!
