What are bioidentical hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are compounds that exactly match the natural hormones your body makes when it is (or was) in balance. Intermittent testing is required to monitor the changes you need as menopause progresses.
Will I need blood tests?
Yes. We calculate the dosing of your bioidential hormone mixture based on your unique hormone levels. To be truly bioidentical, we want to check your levels to make sure they are in balance. Your insurance will typically pay for blood testing.
Why use hormone pellets and creams?
When hormones are absorbed rather than swallowed, they go directly to the tissues and are not altered by the liver. This is called the “first pass effect.” Bypassing the gastrointestinal system also avoids many possible side effects. We use pellets as a convenient and measurable way to provide your hormone replacement.
Are bioidentical hormones safer than standard hormones?
There are no studies to prove that bioidentical hormones are safer than standard hormone replacement pills; however, hundreds of thousands of women have been treated successfully and with fewer side effects.
Are bioidentical hormones safe for everyone?
Certain women should not undergo hormone replacement therapy of any type until detailed studies on safety have been performed. You are not considered for bioidentical therapy if you have a personal history of breast cancer or stroke, or if you have a blood clot.
Is bioidentical hormone replacement therapy approved by the FDA?
This therapy is a not a new approach to hormone replacement; it has been used since the 1930’s. Bioidentical hormones are legal to prescribe and use in the US, although the FDA has not given its specific approval. The lack of FDA approval is because there are no official placebo-controlled studies to prove whether bioidentical hormones are safer than standard hormone replacement therapy.
Will my insurance cover bioidentical hormone replacement therapy?
Insurance companies do not pay for bioidentical hormones because they are not FDA approved. Your insurance will cover issues related to under-active thyroid problems.
Do I have to come in every 3 to 4 months for testing?
In the beginning of your therapy, you will need frequent testing to check that each hormone component is in proper balance. Once you are feeling well and tests show a proper balance, your visits can be less often – usually only once a year.
How quickly does it work? When will I start to feel better?
You will see improvement within the first 2 to 3 weeks of therapy, but it will take up to 8 weeks to feel the full effect. We want to achieve balance with the lowest dose of each hormone – the recommendation of the FDA and American College of OBGYN.
What is adrenal fatigue?
Fatigue, foggy mind, poor sleep, and weight gain are common symptoms of adrenal fatigue. The adrenal gland produces Cortisol, which controls our response to stress. During times of high stress, whether short or long-term, your ability to produce the proper levels of Cortisol can be affected. Sound nutrition, exercise, and short-term Cortisol supplementation can reverse this condition.