What to Expect from Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
Are you feeling tired and irritable or experiencing hot flashes? These symptoms could be signs of hormonal imbalances and are common as we age. But don't worry — there's hope in treatment, and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) may be just what you need to feel like yourself again.
BHRT is a treatment option that uses hormones identical in molecular structure to the hormones naturally produced in your body. Unlike traditional hormone replacement therapy, which uses synthetic hormones, BHRT uses hormones derived from plant sources, making BHRT a more natural and personalized treatment option.
So, what can you expect from BHRT? In this post, Dr. Michael Skardasis and our team at Optimal Performance Medicine in Woodstock, Georgia, fill you in on what you need to know.
Getting started
We start with a consultation. Dr. Skardasis specializes in BHRT, so he can diagnose a hormone problem quickly and determine when BHRT is the best option. During your consultation, Dr. Skardasis discusses your symptoms and medical history. If he decides BHRT is suitable, we test your hormone levels, which may involve blood, saliva, or urine testing.
Based on the results of your hormone testing, we create a personalized BHRT plan for you, including the specific hormones you need, the accurate dosage, and the delivery form, such as creams, gels, patches, pellets, or injections.
Since BHRT isn’t a one-size-fits-all treatment, we tailor your BHRT plan to match your unique needs and hormone levels.
Life with BHRT
The first thing you’ll appreciate about BHRT is that it reduces or stops the symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances, namely hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, low libido, fatigue, and weight gain.
Beyond immediate symptom relief, BHRT also benefits your overall health. For example, rebalancing your hormones can slow bone loss, reduce your risk of heart disease, improve your cognitive function, and reduce your risk of breast cancer.
Consider this
Although BHRT is natural, it’s not without risks. Like any medical treatment, there may be side effects associated with BHRT, like tender breasts, bloating, headaches, and mood changes. We discuss any potential risks with you and monitor you closely throughout your BHRT treatment, making adjustments when necessary.
Another important consideration when starting BHRT is the cost. Most insurance companies don’t cover BHRT, so you must consider the cost before starting treatment. But if you’re like most of our patients, you might find that the benefits of BHRT outweigh the cost because it enables you to feel like yourself again.
If you and Dr. Skardasis decide BHRT is right for you, rest assured that you’ll get personalized, expert treatment at Optimal Performance Medicine. Don't let hormonal imbalances hold you back — talk to Dr. Skardasis about BHRT.
Call or click to schedule your consultation with Dr. Skardasis today.