Hormone Replacement Therapy Specialist

What is Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Although we primarily associate hormones with sexual function, in fact, these special chemicals perform and regulate many vital processes that are important to good health. As women approach menopause or if they have certain medical conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), they produce fewer of the natural sex hormones, resulting in a wide array of symptoms that can interfere with quality of life (or, in the case of PCOS, cause infertility). Hormone replacement therapy or HRT uses synthetic (lab-created) hormones to replace the hormones that are not being produced by the body. Today, HRT is performed using bioidentical hormones, synthetic hormones that work like natural hormones and are eliminated by the body in the same manner, reducing and eliminating many of the side effects associated with traditional HRT.

What Issues Can HRT Address?

In addition to treating conditions like PCOS or uterine fibroids, HRT is effective in treating many of the symptoms and side effects of menopause, including:

• Weight gain
• Irregular periods
• Thinning hair or dry, thinning skin
• Anxiety, depression, and moodiness
• Vaginal dryness
• Low sex drive
• Painful intercourse
• Sleep problems
• Problems concentrating (sometimes referred to as “brain fog”)

Some studies have shown HRT can also be helpful in preventing or reducing the risk of developing postmenopausal bone loss or osteoporosis, a leading cause of fractures in older women.

Is Hormone Replacement Therapy Safe?

Yes, today's bioidentical hormone products have reduced or eliminated many of the side effects and potential risks of traditional HRT. Women who take hormones must have routine blood tests to ensure the levels of hormones they're taking are optimized for their needs. Regular office visits and lab work will enable us to adjust the dosing over time to achieve the best possible results.

Is HRT a Good Choice For All Menopausal Women?

HRT can provide significant relief for many symptoms and side effects of menopause, but it's not always an ideal choice for all women. The best way to know if hormone replacement therapy could be beneficial for you is to schedule an evaluation to discuss your health and your symptoms and to review your treatment options.