Hormone Replacement therapy
Hormones act as messengers within your body, regulating various functions such as digestion, metabolism, respiration, sleep, stress, growth, movement, reproduction, mood, and weight. They influence feelings of hunger, sleepiness, and stress, also signaling when to cease these functions.
Our approach focuses on safely balancing your hormones to enhance both how you feel and look, minimizing potential side effects. While introducing anything into your body carries some risk of side effects, in today's world filled with factors disrupting hormones, achieving optimal well-being often requires hormone replacement. To mitigate issues, we use bio-identical hormones, which are biologically identical to the hormones naturally produced by your body.
What are hormones & how do they work?
Symptoms of hormonal imbalance include reduced energy, difficulty losing weight despite lifestyle changes, diminished vitality, brain fog, memory decline, dry skin or hair, decreased focus, muscle gain challenges, increased aches and pains, loss of libido, vaginal dryness (in women), decreased morning erections (in men), depression, anxiety, irritability, reduced exercise recovery, sleep problems, menstrual irregularities (in women), and more. However, these symptoms vary among individuals and can extend beyond what's mentioned.
This distinction introduces a potential for more adverse effects and a potentially higher risk of cancers and other diseases. The decision to use hormones is a personal choice, and opting for bio-identical hormones is often a topic patients research extensively before making a decision.
Using bioidentical hormones, we can safely achieve this with minimal to no side effects. Optimal hormone levels are linked to a reduced risk of conditions like heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, dementia, and certain cancers. Moreover, it not only improves health but also enhances how we feel and function, with lasting benefits. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about our medical aesthetic or hormone replacement therapy services in your area.
What are bio-identical hormones?
Why consider hormone replacement therapy?
What is hormone imbalance?
Testosterone, crucial for a man's appearance and sexual development, is mainly produced in the testicles. It stimulates sperm production, libido, and supports bone and muscle mass. Research shows it has a protective effect on men's health. However, testosterone declines by about 1% per year starting in a man's 30s, leading to andropause, typically in his late 30s to early 40s. By their 70s, men have significantly lower testosterone, increasing the risk of chronic diseases.
Low testosterone levels can cause various symptoms like fatigue, poor concentration, mood changes, changes in body composition, and sexual function issues. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) has proven effective in addressing these issues, improving cholesterol, recovery from workouts, stamina, motivation, and more. Men, like women, can benefit from HRT, especially if struggling with low testosterone.
It's common for men to feel embarrassed about discussing issues like low sex drive or erectile dysfunction. Revitalize Medical Solutions provides support and solutions for such concerns. However, it's essential to consult with Forever Young Medical before starting testosterone therapy to ensure it's the right treatment, considering factors beyond age.
Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is a hormone produced naturally in small amounts except during pregnancy. Prescription HCG is identical to natural HCG and stimulates the testicles to produce testosterone, estrogen, and sperm, similar to luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). However, it's expensive and not widely available for testosterone therapy.
Gonadorelin, also called gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), mimics the natural hormone produced by the brain's hypothalamus. It's released in pulses every two hours, stimulating the pituitary gland to release LH, FSH, and some HCG. These hormones then stimulate the testicles to produce testosterone, estrogen, and sperm. It's a cheaper alternative to HCG and works similarly.
Enclomiphene and Clomiphene citrate are other options for testosterone optimization. They work by blocking estrogen receptors in the brain's hypothalamus, triggering an increase in GnRH, which prompts the pituitary gland to release more LH and FSH. This leads to increased testosterone production in the testes, addressing low testosterone levels or hypogonadism. Both drugs share this pathway to boost testosterone levels. These are taken as an oral form typically every other day
We prescribe HCG, Gonadorelin, Enclomiphene or Clomiphene citrate primarily to prevent or delay the natural testicular shrinkage that occurs in aging men experiencing testosterone deficiency due to andropause. This treatment targets physical symptoms resulting from testicular shrinkage.
Additionally, we prescribe HCG, Gonadorelin, Enclomiphene or Clomiphene citrate for younger men who wish to preserve their fertility and ability to produce testosterone while undergoing testosterone optimization therapy.
Male Testosterone Replacement
Some patients prefer creams and gels due to their easy application, a common and convenient method. Daily application is necessary for effectiveness, but it's important to note the high risk of transference to others.
TESTOSTERONE (and/or HCG/Gonadorelin) INJECTIONS
Injections, chosen by some patients, are administered at home and are highly effective when done correctly. We provide all needed supplies, offering intramuscular or subcutaneous injection options. Both methods are equally effective, and our staff can administer them at our office if needed.
TESTOSTERONE PELLETS
Pellet therapy, dating back to the 1930s, provides convenient and effective treatment. A small pellet, like a grain of rice, is inserted under the skin, slowly metabolizing over 3-4 months. This method mimics the natural body cycle, avoids transference risk, eliminates daily application, and ensures even doses.
NUTRICEUTICALS
Nutraceuticals (pharmaceutical-grade supplements) are crucial for supporting hormone optimization. Supplements like vitamin D, magnesium, and zinc promote healthy testosterone levels, aiding in increased testosterone uptake and natural hormone level improvements. Explore our FullScript Testosterone boosting bundle to save 25% on supplements.
NUTRITION
Research indicates that a diet rich in high-protein, good fats, and low sugar supports healthy testosterone levels. Foods like fatty fish, dark leafy greens, avocado, eggs, and berries are top choices. It's important to note that alcohol can lower testosterone levels.
EXERCISE
Any physical activity contributes to better health, but resistance training and weight-bearing exercises are particularly effective in boosting testosterone, both short- and long-term. Afternoon workouts are most effective, and exercise can also reduce cortisol levels, the stress hormone that hampers testosterone production. For additional cortisol support, check our FullScript supplement Stress bundle.
Options for Testosterone Therapy
If you experience even one of the following symptoms:
- Reduced sex drive
- Low energy levels
- Decreased strength or endurance
- Height loss
- Less enjoyment of life
- Feelings of sadness or grumpiness
- Weaker erections
- Decline in sports performance
- Falling asleep after dinner
- Deterioration in work performance
Answer yes or no to these questions to see if your symptoms are that of imbalanced hormones:
Your body's hormones serve as a crucial internal communication system, coordinating various functions like digestion, growth, temperature, appetite, immune function, mood, anxiety, and libido. When even slightly imbalanced, hormones can significantly impact your health and well-being, leading to feelings of fatigue, hair loss, temperature fluctuations, mood swings, and more.
Top 6 symptoms of hormone imbalance in women:
- Physical and mental fatigue - Lack of energy, focus, or concentration may indicate hormone imbalances.
- Body composition - Struggling with unexplained weight gain or inability to lose body fat could be linked to hormonal issues.
- Sleep issues - Difficulty falling or staying asleep, night sweats, or waking up unrefreshed may result from hormonal imbalances.
- Mood changes - Depression, anxiety, PMS, or mood swings may be signs of hormonal fluctuations.
- Sex life - Lack of libido or poor sexual response can be indicators of a hormone imbalance.
- Perimenopause/Menopause - Hot flashes, vaginal dryness, memory changes, erratic periods, and other symptoms can be addressed with hormone therapy.
The goal of hormone replacement therapy is to maintain balanced hormone levels throughout treatment, mimicking the body's natural production. Custom prescriptions are tailored to your specific hormone levels, restoring them to their pre-decline state, which often begins around the age of 35 for most women, earlier in others.
Female Hormone Replacement Therapy
BHRT offers a safe and natural way to restore balance and health, providing relief from symptoms associated with hormone imbalance and supporting long-term well-being.
Additional benefits of BHRT:
Imitates Natural Hormones: Derived from plants, bioidentical hormones integrate seamlessly into the body, tailored to your unique needs.
Enhances Sexual Experience: BHRT can increase libido, restore sex drive, improve the quality of sexual experiences, reduce pain during intercourse, and enhance vaginal lubrication.
Increases Collagen Production: BHRT helps the body produce more collagen, combating dry and thin skin, reducing wrinkles, and promoting healthier hair and nails.
Improves Sleep Quality: Restoring healthy hormonal levels with BHRT can enhance overall sleep quality and eliminate disturbances caused by hormonal imbalances.
Alleviates Menopausal Symptoms: BHRT can reduce or eliminate unpleasant symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats associated with low estrogen and progesterone levels during menopause.
Enhances Cognitive Functions: BHRT improves mental clarity, reduces anxiety and depression, boosts energy levels, and enhances cognitive performance affected by hormonal imbalances.
Strengthens Bone Density: BHRT helps restore hormonal balance, reducing bone loss, and improving bone density, which is essential for preventing fractures and osteoporosis.
Bioidentical Hormone Creams & Gels:
- Preferred by some for ease of application.
- Requires daily use for effectiveness.
- Allows adjustment based on symptom tracking.
- Risk of transference to another person if not given adequate time to absorb.
- Convenient for nightly use.
- Daily for estrogen or combined estrogen and progesterone tablets.
- Testosterone pills not recommended.
- Troches are a safe alternative, dissolving under the tongue.
Skin Patches:
- Replaced every three to four days.
- Available for combined Progesterone/Estrogen or estrogen-only.
- Ideal if you prefer patches or have a history of clot, diabetes, heart, or liver problems.
- Easy to use and delivers a constant absorption of hormones.
Bioidentical Hormone Injections:
- Administered at home and effective when done correctly.
- Supplies provided, recommends subcutaneous injections for comfort.
- Can be done at the office by staff if needed.
- Only Testosterone and estradiol are compounded in injectable form.
Estrogen and Testosterone Pellets:
- Tiny pellet inserted under the skin, slowly metabolized over 3-4 months.
- Mimics the natural cycle of the human body.
- No risk of transference, no daily application, stable doses.
Nutraceuticals:
- Essential for supporting hormone optimization.
- Vitamin D3/k2, magnesium, Vitamin B complex, Vitamin C, Iron, DHEA, and zinc linked to promoting healthy hormone levels in women.
- Supports increased uptake of female hormones and natural improvements in hormone levels.
- Save 25% on supplements with FullScript Female Hormone boosting bundle.
Nutrition:
- Balanced diet with healthy fats and protein is crucial for hormonal health.
- Protein influences hormones controlling appetite and hunger.
- Healthy fats like avocado, nuts, seeds, and olive oil reduce insulin resistance.
- Omega-3 fatty acids in fatty fish associated with increased progesterone concentrations.
Exercise:
- Physical activity, especially resistance training, promotes short- and long-term boosts in all female hormones.
- Lowers cortisol levels, the stress hormone that decreases hormone production.
- FullScript supplement Stress bundle for additional cortisol support.
What Are the Benefits of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Options for Hormone Replacement Therapy
- Feeling overstimulated by triggers in your environment?
- Sleeping more but waking up tired?
- Feeling dizzy when standing up?
- Craving salty foods and experiencing energy crashes after sweets?
- Experiencing fatigue worsened by stress or exercise?
- Having more frequent urination and thirst?
- Experiencing headaches relieved by eating?
- Overeating and craving carbohydrates?
- Struggling to lose weight while dieting?
- Trouble concentrating or staying focused?
- Symptoms worsening before your period?
- Notable changes in your period?
- Experiencing breast tenderness?
- Feeling irritable, sad, or not like yourself?
- Having hot flashes and night sweats?
- Trouble falling or staying asleep?
- Puffiness around your eyes or lower legs and ankles?
- Unexplained weight gain over the past year?
- Feeling sluggish in thinking and body movements?
- Having consistently low body temperature?
If you answer yes to any of the above, you may be dealing with imbalanced hormones and could benefit from hormone replacement therapy. Click the link to schedule a consultation with our Medical Provider.
Indicate whether your symptoms align with imbalanced hormones by answering yes or no to these questions:
What are the signs of thyroid disorder?
Recognizing the signs of a thyroid disorder can be challenging, especially when symptoms initially appear subtle. Feelings of fatigue or sluggishness, fluctuations in weight, and mood swings might easily be dismissed as typical aspects of daily life. Amidst the demands of work, family, and social commitments, it's easy to overlook the accumulation of these symptoms. However, when they escalate to more pronounced discomforts such as hair loss, heart palpitations, or sensitivity to temperature changes, it prompts the question: "What is wrong with me?" Disregarding these symptoms is perilous, as untreated thyroid disorders can progress to severe conditions like osteoporosis, heart disease, and thyroid cancers.
Initially, symptoms of hypothyroidism like fatigue and weight gain may go unnoticed or be attributed to the aging process. However, as metabolism slows down, more apparent issues may arise.
Common symptoms of hypothyroidism include:
- Fatigue: When the thyroid isn't working properly, you'll likely feel less energetic both physically and mentally.
- Cold sensitivity: Feeling chilly is a common symptom.
- Changes in appetite and weight: A thyroid imbalance can lead to reduced hunger and weight gain because your body burns fewer calories.
- Heart and blood pressure effects: Low thyroid hormone levels may cause high blood pressure and increased levels of total and LDL cholesterol.
- Mental effects: Hypothyroidism and depression have overlapping symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, memory issues, and loss of interest in things that usually matter to you. It's crucial to get the right diagnosis since they require different treatments.
- Other symptoms: A slowed metabolism can decrease sweating, resulting in dry skin and brittle nails. Hair may become thinner or coarser. Digestion may slow down, causing constipation. Speech and movement may also become slower. Muscle aches and joint pain, including conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, may occur frequently.
Treatment for Hypothyroidism
Thorough lab testing and in-person consultations are crucial for accurately diagnosing and treating thyroid disorders. If you're experiencing symptoms suggestive of a thyroid issue, we'll conduct tests for TSH, T3, T4, reverse T3, and assess cortisol levels. We'll also take the time to discuss how your symptoms have impacted your life. Your medical history and lifestyle play integral roles in treatment and diagnosis. Optimal treatment should be tailored to your specific needs rather than a generic notion of "normal." By considering each aspect, we'll devise a treatment plan aimed at achieving optimal thyroid function.
Bioidentical hormone therapy can be a great solution for thyroid issues, especially when combined with high-quality supplements or herbs designed to support thyroid health. Nutritional deficiencies, like low selenium levels, can also mess with thyroid function. In these cases, treatment might include selenium supplements and other nutrients to help your body absorb it better.
NP Thyroid, or compounded desiccated thyroid, contains T3 and T4—the same thyroid hormone molecules produced by the body. This FDA-approved medication adheres to the rigorous standards set by the United States Pharmacopoeia. Other natural thyroid medications such as NP-Thyroid, Nature-Thyroid, WP Thyroid, and Compounded Liothyronine/Levothyroxine Non-Porcine are also bioidentical to the body's own thyroid hormones.
Stress is another big player in thyroid problems. Cortisol levels, which rise when we're stressed, can tell us a lot about what's going on. For those with imbalanced cortisol, treatments might involve relaxation techniques, mindfulness exercises, or tips for better sleep.
Getting your thyroid back on track isn't easy and takes time. Thyroid hormones operate on a sensitive feedback loop, so finding the right treatment is like an art. That's why it's crucial to start with thorough lab testing to understand what's happening in your body. We'll look at all your thyroid hormones, plus reverse T3 and cortisol levels. Then, after chatting about your lifestyle and symptoms, we'll work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your life and restores balance and wellbeing.
If you suspect you're experiencing symptoms of low thyroid, click the link to schedule an appointment immediately and allow us to assist you on your path to feeling your best!
How do we test for thyroid dysfunction?
How do we treat thyroid dysfunction?
