What Are the Signs You Need Hormone Replacement Therapy?

What Are the Signs You Need Hormone Replacement Therapy?

As we embrace the wisdom that comes with age, our bodies undergo natural hormonal changes that can leave us feeling lackluster. Although we can not stop time, we can certainly mitigate the impact of hormonal changes and maintain vitality.

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) replenishes hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone using the same chemical structure as the natural hormones produced by your body. It can help stabilize hormone levels so you can continue enjoying your best self for years to come.

In this blog, we uncover the top five reasons why both women and men might want to consider BHRT. Is hormone therapy right for you? Keep reading to learn more!

• 5 Reasons Women Might Consider BHRT
• 5 Reasons Men Might Consider BHRT

Bioidentical Hormones For Women: 5 Signs to Consider Treatment

BHRT is a treatment option that may benefit women who are experiencing hormonal imbalances or changes in their bodies, such as perimenopause or menopause, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or problems with the adrenal glands.

Bioidentical hormones are designed to mimic women’s natural hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and sometimes testosterone. BHRT helps to regulate these hormones, thus reducing symptoms and improving quality of life.

Here are five reasons why women might consider BHRT:

1. Hot Flashes

These are some of the most common menopause symptoms. The sudden sensation of intense warmth often causes sweating, flushing, and a rapid heartbeat.

Hot flashes occur when estrogen levels decline which causes the hypothalamus—which regulates body temperature—to become hypersensitive. It misreads slight fluctuations as overheating, triggering a cascade of events to cool the perceived excess warmth.

2. Vaginal Dryness

Estrogen is a hormone that helps maintain the lubrication, elasticity, and thickness of the vaginal walls. When estrogen levels drop, the vaginal tissues can become thin, dry, and inflamed, leading to vaginal dryness, also known as vaginal atrophy.

3. Difficulty Sleeping

As women transition through menopause, their bodies undergo profound hormonal, physical, and emotional changes, and their sleep can understandably suffer. Of women in their late 40s and early 50s, over 40% report sleep disturbances.

4. Anxiety or Irritability

Estrogen plays a role in regulating mood and emotion. Hormonal changes during menopause—particularly a decrease in estrogen levels—can contribute to feelings of anxiety, irritability, and noticeable mood swings.

5. Irregular Menstrual Cycles

Irregular menstrual cycles can be a sign you might benefit from hormone replacement therapy . Changes in your body’s level of the hormones estrogen and progesterone can disrupt the normal pattern of your period, leading to irregular periods.

Bioidentical Hormones For Men: 5 Signs to Consider Treatment

BHRT is a treatment option that may benefit men who are experiencing hormone imbalances or age-related changes such as Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome (AKA “Low T”), or andropause—the male equivalent of menopause.

Some men may experience a decline in testosterone levels as they age, which can lead to uncomfortable symptoms similar to those of menopause in women. BHRT has the potential to alleviate these symptoms and enhance overall well-being.

Here are five reasons why men might consider BHRT:

1. Reduced Libido

As men transition through andropause, the gradual age-related decline in testosterone can dampen libido. When levels begin to drop in their 40s and into their 50s, it is not uncommon for men to experience a reduced drive for physical intimacy.

2. Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) refers to the inability to gain or sustain an erection adequate for satisfying sex. The causes can be physical, psychological, or both. One notable factor is the decline in testosterone levels that typically accompanies the aging process in men.

3. Increased Body Fat, Decreased Muscle

Testosterone supports muscle growth and development by aiding in protein synthesis. Men with low testosterone often experience “muscle wasting” as they lose power and strength. Many also gain body fat, particularly in the abdominal region.

4. Low Energy and Mood

Testosterone plays a crucial role in maintaining not only physical vitality, but also emotional balance and cognitive well-being. Low testosterone levels can lead to low energy levels, fatigue, and mood swings.

5. Reduced Bone Density

When aging leads to thinning, brittle bones, low testosterone may be to blame. As testosterone levels naturally decrease with age, bone density is reduced, increasing the risk of developing osteoporosis and fractures.

The Benefits of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy

BHRT uses compounded bioidentical hormones chemically identical to those your body produces naturally. As both women and men experience declining hormones due to aging, many have found BHRT to be helpful in alleviating symptoms and restoring vitality.

After starting BHRT, the time it takes to experience improvements can vary by person and sex. Women often find relief from symptoms within days. It may take four to six weeks for men to experience the full effects of BHRT as their bodies re-acclimate to optimized hormone levels.

Benefits of BHRT can include:

1. A Sharper Mind

Hormonal declines can contribute to memory loss, anxiety, irritability, and depressed mood. By replenishing depleted hormones, BHRT can help improve mental health and cognitive function.

2. More Restful Sleep

Given what we know about how hormone imbalance can affect sleep, the impact of BHRT can be considerable. BHRT helps stabilize hormones that regulate healthy sleep-wake cycles so you can hopefully enjoy deeper, more rejuvenating rest.

3. Radiant Skin, Strong Nails, and Shiny Hair

While evidence is more anecdotal than anything, many experience reduced wrinkles and improved skin elasticity when taking BHRT. It might also enhance blood flow, which nourishes the hair follicles and nail beds for healthier growth.

Common Side Effects of BHRT

As your body adjusts to optimized hormone levels, you may experience some mild side effects after beginning bioidentical hormone therapy. These are common and typically temporary.

Within the first few weeks of starting treatment, women may notice breast tenderness, spotting between periods, or cramps. Men may experience temporary acne or irritability.

Other transitory effects can include:

• Increased facial or body hair
• Bloating
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Blurred vision

While the adjustment period varies, most people find relief from these side effects within a month or two as the body achieves hormonal equilibrium. However, you may need to speak with your doctor to have your dose adjusted if side effects persist.

What Are Your Hormone Replacement Options?

Your practitioner can draw from a diverse range of hormone therapy treatment methods:

• Topical creams to nourish the skin
• Gels for transdermal absorption
• Oral pills taken by mouth
• Patches for steady dosing
• Injections for potent effects
• Quick-absorbing sprays
• Implanted pellets for prolonged release

Some options must be administered in-clinic, while others can be self-managed at home. The best delivery method and dosage depend on factors like your lab results, lifestyle, symptoms, and overall health profile.

Rediscover Your Vitality With APT Medical Aesthetics

Do not let hormones dictate how you feel—BHRT can help!

Our compassionate practitioners will thoroughly evaluate your symptoms and create a custom treatment plan to reinvigorate your well-being. We offer individually tailored hormone therapies to suit your precise needs, lifestyle and goals.

Invest in your quality of life by contacting APT Medical Aesthetics today to schedule a consultation. We will find something that works for you.