Bioidentical hormones are identical in molecular structure to the hormones produced naturally in the human body. They are often used in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) to help alleviate unpleasant symptoms of hormonal imbalance and decline associated with aging or medical conditions.
As we age, our bodies begin producing lower levels of key hormones like estrogen, progesterone, testosterone and DHEA. This natural decline can lead to distressing symptoms that negatively impact quality of life. Women may experience hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes and sleep problems. In men, low testosterone can cause fatigue, loss of muscle mass, erectile dysfunction and depression.
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can help restore optimal hormone levels, allowing patients to feel as vibrant as they did in their younger years. With properly balanced amounts of estrogen, progesterone, testosterone and other hormones, patients report improvements in energy, mood, sexual function, memory, skin tone, strength and endurance.
Here at Renew Medical HRT Clinic in Orting, WA, we specialize exclusively in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT). Unlike synthetic versions of hormones, compounded bioidentical hormones are molecularly identical to those found naturally in the human body. This allows them to bind precisely to hormone receptors and be utilized just like the hormones produced in your own endocrine system. We customize unique pellet implant, injectable, transdermal and other bioidentical hormone replacement (BHRT) regimens designed specifically for each patient's needs and metabolism.
There are many reasons patients and providers may select bioidentical hormone replacement (BHRT) over other options. Some key benefits of bioidentical hormones include:
Because bioidentical hormones share the exact chemical structure as those created in the body, they are able to bind to receptors, signal genes and metabolize in natural pathways with minimal side effects. Many patients report substantial relief from menopausal or andropausal symptoms and renewed vitality.
We customize unique BHRT regimens designed specifically for each patient's needs and metabolism. By carefully tracking symptoms and conducting follow up blood panels, we can tweak dosages of estrogen, testosterone and other bioidentical hormones in pellet implants or creams until each patient feels their best.
Some patients may seek alternatives to manufactured hormone drugs or prefer to avoid putting new chemicals into their bodies. The natural identity of bioidentical hormones provides a comforting option. Patients also appreciate the steady hormone levels provided by pellet implant therapy, avoiding spikes and low points.
Both men and women can benefit from properly balanced bioidentical hormones to resolve undesirable symptoms of andropause or menopause. We offer customized bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) designed to meet the unique needs of either gender.
Our dedicated practitioners guide patients through every aspect of bioidentical hormone replacement (BHRT) — from initial assessment and lab testing to long-term monitoring and follow up.
We begin by thoroughly assessing each patient's current symptoms, medical history and hormone levels through lab testing. For women, this often includes tests for estradiol, progesterone, DHEA and testosterone. In men, we commonly evaluate testosterone, estradiol and thyroid hormones. This information allows us to determine specific imbalances contributing to symptoms.
Next, our practitioners devise a customized bioidentical hormone replacement (BHRT) regimen designed to restore optimal hormonal balance for that patient. We often recommend bioidentical hormone pellet implants as the most effective method, providing steady release of hormones over several months. For some patients, we may prescribe bioidentical creams, patches or tablets instead.
We schedule regular follow up visits to evaluate treatment effectiveness and make dosage adjustments if needed to achieve peak hormonal balance. We also check additional blood tests to ensure hormones return to optimal ranges. By closely collaborating, we can fine-tune each patient's regimen to fully resolve troublesome symptoms.
In addition to bioidentical hormone therapy, we provide customized lifestyle recommendations to support healthy hormone levels and maximize treatment benefits. This may include diet, exercise, stress reduction or supplements tailored to the individual patient's needs. We empower patients with the tools they need to look and feel their best.
There are four main types of hormones that tend to decline with age. Imbalances in these key hormones result in many bothersome symptoms that can disrupt quality of life.
Plummeting estrogen is responsible for most symptoms women experience during perimenopause and menopause. These may include hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, bone loss, weight gain, vaginal dryness and bladder issues like urinary urgency or incontinence. Restoring estrogen levels through bioidentical hormone replacement alleviates these symptoms.
Progesterone works synergistically with estrogen to regulate menstrual cycles and support pregnancy in premenopausal women. Postmenopausally, properly balanced progesterone is essential for stabilizing estrogen levels, promoting restful sleep, preserving memory and bone density, easing anxiety and boosting libido. Bioidentical progesterone replacement is key.
Testosterone deficiency afflicts both men and women. Male hypogonadism stems from reduced testicular function, while in women ovarian production falters. Low testosterone contributes to emotional instability, fatigue, mental fog, irritability, weight gain, low libido, erectile dysfunction, loss of strength and lean body mass. Bioidentical testosterone replacement via pellet implants helps restore more youthful hormone concentrations.
DHEA or Dehydroepiandrosterone is an androgen precursor hormone produced by the adrenal glands. DHEA enhances vitality, mood, libido and cognition while supporting bone, joint, heart and immune health. Production declines dramatically around age 30. Bioidentical DHEA replacement is very beneficial, especially for those with low levels.
Bioidentical hormones are chemically identical to those made in the human body. Studies show they may help relieve menopause symptoms like hot flashes. However, research is mixed on whether they reduce long-term health risks that synthetic hormones can cause, like heart disease and cancer. More research is still needed to understand their full effects.
Prior to ever initiating bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), we conduct several important assessments to objectively verify the presence and extent of any hormone imbalances or deficiencies.
We thoroughly review the patient's current symptoms and medical history, listening closely to fully understand all concerns influencing their wellbeing and quality of life. We determine how long troublesome issues have persisted and impacts to daily function.
A comprehensive physical allows assessment of general health and possible factors that may influence hormone levels or efficacy of treatment. We evaluate height, weight and body mass index, blood pressure, breast, abdominal, thyroid and pelvic examinations and review of current supplements or medications.
We assess baseline bioidentical hormones like estradiol, progesterone and testosterone, as well as key hormones produced by the adrenal, pituitary and thyroid glands. For women, we may also evaluate Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels which indicate ovarian age and reserve. Follow up testing helps monitor patient progress on therapy.
We utilize advanced genetic testing to detect individual mutations affecting metabolism and clearance of bioidentical hormones. Genetic differences can dramatically impact what dosage is optimal for each patient. This technology allows us to further customize precise bioidentical hormone replacement regimens.
Together with our patients, we devise customized bioidentical hormone replacement regimens and provide holistic lifestyle guidance for maximizing results.
Our preferred bioidentical hormone replacement method is subcutaneous pellets. These small implants placed under the skin steadily release optimized ratios of hormones over 4-6 months avoiding uneven peaks and dips. Pellet therapy greatly elevates patient compliance and consistent symptom relief. We help guide each patient through the quick and nearly painless placement procedure to start them on the path to better health.
We highly recommend pharmacogenomic (DNA) testing to identify any patient mutations that can affect absorption and metabolism of bioidentical hormones, nutrients and supplements. Knowing this genetic information allows us to further fine tune individualized BHRT regimens.
We meticulously track patient symptoms and hormone levels through blood testing at regular intervals to ensure treatment efficacy and optimal balance. Follow up labs are vital to evaluate patient progress and indicate any need for dosage adjustments. Our experts closely monitor response to therapy and tweak prescriptions as needed.
One's diet and nutritional status impacts the production, transport, activation and breakdown of hormones. We offer customized nutrition plans supporting healthy hormone levels. Key strategies include maintaining ideal body weight, reducing sugar consumption, eating fresh whole foods and incorporating targeted bioidentical supplements where deficiencies exist.
Quality sleep is essential for hormonal balance, metabolism and overall health. We provide sleep hygiene guidelines to help patients achieve consistent, high-quality slumber. Creating cooling, peaceful sleep environments, following routines, limiting electronics use before bedtime and natural sleep aids play pivotal roles.
Regular exercise helps strengthen bones, stimulate neurotransmitters, foster cardiovascular health and manage weight for optimal hormonal outcomes. Our practitioners suggest each patient incorporate movement plans consisting of flexibility, aerobic activity and resistance training tailored to current fitness level and lifestyle constraints. Even modest activity levels sustain substantial benefits.
Chronic stress overactivates the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis and sympathetic nervous system, disturbing delicate hormonal signaling. Relaxation therapies like meditation, deep breathing, yoga, massage and mindfulness reverse this imbalance. We educate patients on evidence-based stress relief and self-care methods incorporating those best aligned with personal preferences.
