Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) has become a popular option for both men and women struggling with hormone imbalance symptoms. Bioidentical hormones are identical replicas of the hormones naturally produced in the human body. As the term suggests, they are indistinguishable on a molecular level from our endogenous hormones including estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and others. This makes them easier for the body to recognize and utilize properly.
BHRT is customized based on each patient's unique hormonal status, lifestyle factors, and health goals. After comprehensive lab testing, the hormone compounding pharmacy uses plant-derived hormones to prepare personalized capsules, gels or creams to restore optimal hormonal levels. With proper dosing and monitoring, many patients find great symptom relief with bioidenticals while avoiding negative side effects common with synthetic hormones.
Ongoing supervision by an experienced provider is key to success with BHRT. Below are some of the most common reasons residents in Gretna choose bioidentical hormone therapy and what they can expect from the process.
Fluctuating or declining hormones greatly impacts overall wellbeing in women and men, contributing to issues like:
These symptoms often overlap with natural reproductive aging, but lifestyle and health factors can significantly accelerate hormonal decline even in younger patients. Common risk factors include:
Nutrient deficiencies: Diets low in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants needed for hormone activity High stress levels: Constant elevated cortisol disrupts endocrine function Obesity and inactivity: Excess body fat interferes with hormone signaling Smoking and excess alcohol intake: Direct toxicity damages hormone-secreting glands Underlying conditions: Thyroid dysfunction, diabetes, autoimmune issues, etc.
When treating hormone imbalance, identifying and addressing contributory factors is vital alongside bioidentical therapy for optimal restoration. Our practitioners consider the "whole picture" for each individual patient.
Since symptoms lack specificity, laboratory testing gives objective insight on current hormone activity. Key markers our clinic evaluates before bioidentical hormone therapy include:
These key female sex hormones orchestrate the menstrual cycle, fertility, bone protection, heart health and more. Declining estrogen is linked to unpleasant menopausal symptoms including hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood issues and disrupted sleep. Progesterone works synergistically with estrogen and supports pregnancy.
Imbalances between estrogen and progesterone increase female health risks like weight gain, fibroids, PMS and cancer. Targeted testing analyzes specific estrogen metabolites and progesterone levels compared to estrogen to identify deficiencies or excesses and guide proper bioidentical dosing.
Although known as the "male" sex hormone, testosterone plays a vital role in physical, mental and sexual wellness in both genders. Low testosterone contributes to fatigue, mental fog, reduced muscle mass, insulin resistance, low libido, erectile dysfunction, infertility and loss of confidence. Excess body fat hastens declining testosterone so obesity further perpetuates deficiency symptoms.
Alongside patient symptoms, we test total and free testosterone, SHBG levels and other related markers to determine if hormone balancing is needed. Boosting testosterone with bioidentical hormones under medical guidance is safer than the prolonged self-administration seen in some athletic circles.
These "upstream" hormones strongly influence reproductive hormone activity further "downstream." Sluggish thyroid function alters metabolism including estrogen and testosterone breakdown. Meanwhile stress hormones like cortisol block receptors for estrogen and testosterone, effectively neutralizing their biologic effects.
Therefore optimizing thyroid hormone conversion and moderating cortisol levels is key for proper estrogen and testosterone signaling. Our analysis includes TSH, free T4, free T3, reverse T3 and adrenal stress markers to identify common interference points before bioidentical therapy.
The specific hormone tests needed depends greatly on the patient's gender, symptoms and risks. Revive Hormone Clinic tailors testing recommendations and bioidentical hormone plans to individual needs for safe, effective treatment. Consultation visits also evaluate lifestyle habits, medical history, family risks and other factors interplaying with hormone health.
After confirming hormone deficiency and ruling out contraindications, we distribute customized bioidentical hormone replacement to help patients regain balance from menopause, andropause or other endocrine dysfunction. Bioidentical hormones have the same molecular structures as human hormones, allowing easier recognition and processing by hormone receptors compared to synthetic versions.
The hormone compounding pharmacy preparations we prescribe include:
Doses start low and increase gradually based on follow-up testing and symptom tracking for maximum safety. We educate patients on proper administration, realistic expectations, potential side effects and other protocol details. Follow up visits, lab work, dosage adjustments and continued monitoring are standard components as well.
Consistency is vital - skipping doses, incorrect storage/handling and poor compliance commonly hinders treatment outcomes. We counsel bioidentical hormone patients on developing consistent habits and reminder systems for sustained benefits.
Bioidentical hormones are chemically identical to those produced naturally in the body and may come from plant sources. Though promoted as more natural, large randomized trials are still needed to conclusively determine if they are safer or more effective long-term than conventional hormone therapy.
While not everyone has the same experience, most men and women notice significant improvements in hormone-related symptoms when properly treated with bioidentical hormones. Benefits emerge progressively but commonly reported within 1-3 months include:
- Increased energy, stamina and easier fat loss - Reduced menopause or andropause symptoms - Healthier blood pressure, cholesterol and heart rhythms - Less joint discomfort and muscle loss - Improved skin elasticity and texture - Enhanced sexual desire and performance
- Better concentration, memory and clearer thinking - Balanced mood - reduced depression and anxiety - Higher motivation, confidence and enjoyment of life - Deeper, more restorative sleep
Our staff tracks patient progress through follow up conversations, questionnaires and testing. Dosage refinements continue until the patient stabilizes with all major symptoms controlled without side effects. Maintenance therapy and monitoring then helps sustain gains long-term.
Revive Hormone Clinic provides comprehensive bioidentical hormone replacement for men and women throughout Gretna struggling with hormonal dysfunction for any reason. We offer:
Our individualized approach identifies each patient's unique imbalances and needs for customized restorative therapy. We distribute hormone preparations through our affiliated compounding pharmacy using pure pharmaceutical-grade hormones.
Convenient online and in-office options allow busy patients to choose what works best for their schedule. We also provide flexible payment plans to keep treatment affordable alongside caring coordination with other practitioners.
Revive Hormone Clinic proudly serves Gretna and surrounding communities. Contact us today to discuss your symptoms, health goals and see if bioidentical hormones are right for you! Our team looks forward to helping you solve hormone issues holding you back from full health and happiness.
