Hormone therapy (HT) involves supplementing hormones that are lacking or imbalanced in the body. It can provide relief from uncomfortable deficiency signs and help people regain health and vitality.
When hormones become imbalanced, it can negatively impact quality of life. Restoring balance under medical supervision can alleviate issues like fatigue, trouble sleeping, weight gain, low libido, hot flashes, and mood changes.
There are two main types of hormone therapy:
Bioidentical hormones are structurally identical to the hormones naturally produced by the human body. They are often custom-compounded in pharmacies to match a patient's individual hormonal needs.
Common benefits of bioidentical HT include:
Conventional HT utilizes FDA-approved manufactured hormones derived from plants or synthetic materials. The hormones are not identical matches to human hormones but aim to produce similar effects.
While these options may adequately alleviate deficiency symptoms for some patients, others find better outcomes with bioidentical hormones that more closely fit the body's natural receptors.
The first step in hormone therapy is testing key hormones with a blood panel to identify any imbalances or deficiencies.
Hormones that are commonly checked include:
Testing provides an objective hormonal baseline from which customized treatment plans can be developed. Follow-up bloodwork also helps monitor patient progress on hormone therapy programs.
Early diagnosis and prompt treatment of hormonal imbalances can halt progression of deficiency symptoms and reduce risk for associated health conditions like heart disease, osteoporosis, anxiety, obesity, and diabetes.
That's why regular wellness checkups and lab testing are so important - especially for those approaching or experiencing menopause or andropause.
There are a variety of delivery methods that can effectively restore hormone balance. The best option depends on the specific hormones involved, severity of deficiency, patient lifestyle factors, treatment goals, and personal preferences.
Common hormone therapy protocols include:
Within these protocols there is considerable flexibility to tailor treatment plans to individual needs. Dosages and delivery methods can be adjusted over time to help patients achieve hormonal balance and wellness goals.
Complimentary lifestyle measures can enhance results for those embarking on hormone replacement protocols. Useful steps include:
- Emphasize whole, nutrient-dense foods - Reduce sugar intake - Stay hydrated - Consider targeted supplements (vitamins D, B; magnesium, etc.)
Adopting healthy lifestyle habits provides a strong foundation for hormone therapy to have maximal benefits. Our clinicians can offer referrals to dietitians, fitness experts, counsellors, and other specialists to support each patient holistically.
Hormone therapy can help improve bone health and reduce fracture risk in transgender women. According to recent research, transgender women who take feminizing hormone therapy for at least 5 years can achieve bone mineral density similar to that of cisgender women, likely due to the positive effects of estrogen on bone metabolism.
As a leading hormone therapy clinic servicing Bishop County and surrounding areas, Balance Health Clinic offers unparalleled quality, expertise, and personalization.
Our clinic provides:
We also understand the local climate and seasonal impacts on hormone health. Bishop County's high elevation, varied terrain, and dry climate can influence hormones and deficiency symptoms.
Our protocols factor in Bishop's unique environment to help patients achieve optimal wellness year-round. We advise on regional considerations like:
With our specialized expertise and proprietary custom pharmacy, Balance Health Clinic provides Bishop residents unparalleled hormone therapy services. Contact us today for a consultation.