Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help both men and women suffering from hormonal imbalance to regain optimal health and improve their quality of life. This article from Balance Medical Clinic provides extensive information about various aspects of HRT - common deficiency signs, basics of treatment, its benefits and safety, myths vs facts, diagnosis and monitoring of hormones levels. We also offer evidence-based recommendations on lifestyle adjustments for better results of the therapy.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), also known as hormonal replacement therapy, involves administering hormones to supplement lower levels or correct imbalances. It can help alleviate unpleasant symptoms of hormonal decline associated with aging or medical conditions.
There are various types of HRT using different delivery methods - injections, transdermal gels/creams, patches, pellets, etc. The therapy aims to return hormone levels to optimal range for one's age and gender, not to excessive super-physiology levels.
Table 1. Main Hormones Commonly Replaced
| Hormone | Main Functions | Deficiency Signs |
|---|---|---|
| Estrogen | Regulates female reproductive system & sexual function; influences skin, hair, bone & heart health | Hot flashes, vaginal dryness, low libido, fatigue, bone loss |
| Progesterone | Works with estrogen to control menstrual cycle & support pregnancy | Irregular cycles, infertility, mood changes |
| Testosterone | Influences libido, muscle mass/strength in both genders; sperm production in men | Low sex drive, energy, strength; erectile dysfunction |
| Thyroid (T3 & T4) | Regulates metabolism, weight, mood, heart rate | Fatigue, weight gain/loss, hair loss, depression |
Declining hormone levels can negatively impact almost all aspects of health - from energy levels and mental state to sexual function and quality of life. Timely treatment is crucial to halt or reverse progression of deficiency symptoms before they worsen.
Here are some common signs indicating potential hormone imbalance:
In women:
In men:
If you are experiencing any combination of these symptoms, your hormones levels may be out of balance. Professional diagnosis is needed to determine the root cause and suitable treatment plan.
Correcting hormone deficiencies with replacement therapy offers wide-ranging benefits for health, quality of life and slowing down aging.
Balancing hormones alleviates unpleasant menopause and andropause symptoms. This restores a sense of well-being - physically and mentally. Most patients report feeling years younger, energized and renewed after starting HRT.
HRT enhances fat burning while promoting lean muscle mass gains. This leads to easier weight/fat loss, muscle tone, strength, and athletic performance. Thyroid and growth hormones are especially important for boosting metabolism.
Estrogen supports better heart health and testosterone helps lower LDL cholesterol in men. Both protect against risks of memory loss, dementia, Alzheimer's and cardiovascular disease.
Estrogen and testosterone prevent excessive bone density loss leading to osteoporosis. They also support collagen production for flexible joints and reduce inflammation.
Balancing sex hormones - estrogen, progesterone and testosterone plays a big role in restoring libido, arousal, sexual satisfaction and performance issues like erectile dysfunction. This positively impacts intimate relationships. Progesterone also regulates ovulation and menstruation which affects female fertility.
As we age, declining hormones speeds up the body's degeneration. Replacing them can help slow down or reverse various aging biomarkers like muscle loss, weight gain, inflammation, cardiovascular risks, etc. People report looking and feeling years younger on HRT while aging more gracefully.
HRT alleviates more than 25 unpleasant symptoms associated with menopause in women and andropause in men for better quality of life. This includes hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, reduced bone density, low energy, disrupted sleep and mood issues.
There are many misconceptions around hormone therapy safety and effects. Let's demystify some common ones with scientific evidence:
Myth: HRT causes cancer or strokes
Fact: Multiple large studies prove there is NO increased risk of cancers or strokes when non-oral estrogens are started in women < age 60 or < 10 years from menopause onset.
Myth: Bioidentical hormones are not FDA approved as they are compounded
Fact: The bioidentical hormone molecules like estradiol and testosterone are identical to human ones and FDA approved. Compounding enables customized combinations, strengths and delivery methods.
Myth: Taking testosterone will cause rage or aggression
Fact: Balancing testosterone relieves frustration from deficiency. However, excessively high levels can potentially cause agitation which is carefully monitored and avoided.
Myth: Treatment should be stopped after menopause or andropause symptoms resolve
Fact: HRT should ideally be continued lifelong due to anti-aging effects including optimizing metabolism, heart health, brain function and preventing osteoporosis.
Table 2. Common Myths vs Facts on HRT Safety
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| Causes breast cancer | No evidence if estrogen non-oral |
| Leads to heart disease or strokes | Protects heart if estrogen non-oral |
| Testosterone therapy shrinks genitals | False – T levels optimize size |
| Necessary to stop HRT after menopause/andropause | Ideally continue lifelong for anti-aging |
| Only for severe deficiency cases | For any bothersome deficiency signs |
| Synthetic hormones safer than bioidentical | Evidence shows opposite is true |
| Compounded hormones are untested or illegal | Bioidenticals molecules FDA approved |
Self-evaluation of symptoms provides an initial indicator of potential deficiencies. However, accurately diagnosing them requires evidence-based blood, saliva or urine lab testing.
Blood serum testing is covered by insurance and assess total levels of hormones like estradiol, testosterone, etc. However, it lacks accuracy as up to 98% of hormones in circulation are bound to proteins, leaving only 2% free and bioavailable.
Saliva and dried urine hormone tests directly measure the free, readily usable fraction of hormones with greater precision. This allows determining imbalances even when blood work may show "normal". Though not typically covered by insurance, out-of-pocket costs are affordable at around $200-$300 in total.
Levels need assessing at multiple times through circadian rhythm for optimal accuracy - usually 4 dry urine or 2 saliva samples per hormone. The ideal times are:
Follow-up tests are necessary at periodic 6-12 month intervals for monitoring and modifying therapy dosage if needed. More frequent testing allows faster precision tuning.
Key lab markers assessed: - Estradiol, Estrone, Estriol - Progesterone - Total and free Testosterone, DHT - T3, T4 thyroid hormones - Cortisol, DHEA/S
Interpreting results through the lens of symptoms and medical history is equally important for developing individualized, precision treatment plans. This is where finding an experienced hormonal health specialist is invaluable.
Along with traditional tablets and skin creams, newer and more advanced HRT solutions are offering greater convenience, comfort and optimal results:
Testosterone pellets implanted under the skin now last 4-6 months rather than requiring shots every 10-14 days.
Transdermal patches provide steady hormone absorption without liver processing or gastrointestinal issues. Small pellets implanted under the skin slowly release bioidentical hormones over months at a time.
There are progesterone and testosterone creams uniquely formulated for scrotal/labial absorption and avoiding transfer to partners.
Previously, most estrogen products were made from pregnant mare urine. Now completely vegan options sourced from yams and other plants are used.
This unique type of estrogen remains bioidentical after being filtered by the liver. It taps into estrogen receptors 1000 times more powerfully than typical estradiol or estrone.
Cutting edge pellet delivery system placing highly concentrated bioidentical hormones just under top layer of skin for sustained release up to 5 months. Avoiding spikes, it continually reestablishes optimal levels.
Natural micronized progesterone in a pure vegetable glycerin base bypasses liver processing and delivers directly into cells and receptors for unparalleled effectiveness.
With access to such innovative solutions available, hormone therapy is now safer and more effective than ever before in history.
While medication forms the foundation of treatment, optimizing lifestyle factors amplifies benefits and speeds up results.
Eat wholesome minimally processed food focusing on pasture raised meats, wild caught seafood, healthy fats, abundant veggies and some fruit. Avoid excess carbs, sugars, junk food. Intermittent fasting and time restricted eating (like 16:8 protocol) enhances hormonal response.
Key superfoods: avocados, olive oil, nuts/seeds, bone broth, cruciferous veggies, berries, mushrooms, herbal teas.
Do resistance training 2-4 times a week to stimulate testosterone release and maintain lean mass. Mix with cardio, flexibility and rest days. Even light walking helps mental health. Stretching keeps joints flexible and less painful. Yoga lowers cortisol and relieves stress.
Prioritize 7-9 hours good sleep for hormonal balance and repair. Consider melatonin, meditation, chamomile tea to promote deep rest. Take breaks from stimulation sources like work, news, social media. Spend time in nature.
Chronic stress elevates cortisol which opposes optimal hormone function. Practice deep breathing, meditation, yoga, nature walks and other relaxing activities for at least 15-30 minutes daily. Maintain fulfilling social connections.
Stay away from excess alcohol, low quality meats and oils, unfermented soy, certain skin/body care chemicals like phthalates or parabens which have estrogenic or endocrine effects. Use clean natural products.
Following an evidence-based lifestyle radically amplifies the benefits of hormone optimization for enjoying an active, energetic and fulfilling longevity journey ahead.
Balance Medical Clinic specializes in precision diagnostics to uncover root causes of hormonal issues in both men and women. We create fully customized treatment plans based on medical history and advanced lab testing analysis.
Our experienced medical providers stay continually updated on the latest advancements in hormone research and innovative therapies for life transformation results beyond just symptom relief.
We understand hormones regulate ALL systems - not just sexual function but also mental health, physical performance, sleep, weight management and much more. Our holistic perspective sees your entire body and lifestyle context when designing protocols.
From all natural creams, pills and transdermal patches to longer acting pellets and injectables, Balance Medical Clinic provides cutting edge solutions for hormone optimization, energy levels and sensational vitality.
We also guide patients on evidence-based lifestyle, nutrition and stress management protocols for getting the most from their treatment. Ongoing support and telemedicine options offer accessible precision care.
After years struggling with menopause symptoms, hot flashes and low libido, Jessica's marriage was under strain. "Hormone therapy gave me my life back! I have energy to enjoy time with my husband again. Our relationship feels SO much closer now. I wish I had done this years ago".
At age 42 Michael noticed worsening fatigue, erectile dysfunction and was losing musculature despite lifting weights. "Getting my testosterone optimized has been amazing. My energy and strength have noticeably increased. I look and feel younger again - this is me firing on all cylinders!"
Battling chronic migraines, digestion issues and recurring UTI's in peri-menopause left Sarah exhausted while running her company. "Getting properly balanced with bioidenticals was a total game changer! I have so much greater clarity and energy now. My spirit feels renewed to take on life's adventures again!"
Hormone replacement therapy can be a life-changing solution for individuals suffering from hormonal imbalances. At Balance Medical Clinic, we understand the importance of personalized care and stay updated on the latest advancements in hormone research and innovative therapies. Our experienced medical providers take a holistic approach, considering not just sexual function but also mental health, physical performance, sleep, weight management, and more. With our cutting-edge solutions, including natural creams, pills, transdermal patches, longer-acting pellets, and injectables, we aim to provide optimal hormone optimization, energy levels, and sensational vitality. We also guide our patients on evidence-based lifestyle, nutrition, and stress management protocols to maximize the benefits of their treatment. By combining medical expertise with a comprehensive approach, we strive to help our patients regain their vitality and improve their overall quality of life.
