How Bioidentical Hormones Work
Hormones are messenger molecules that enter the bloodstream and affect all parts of the body. Many are closely related, one being made from another, and in turn being used by the body to make yet another hormone. These complex pathways can become unbalanced, and to restore balance, proper types and amounts of key hormones are prescribed.
The following symptoms can be relieved once balance is achieved:
- Hot Flashes
- Night sweats
- Decreased Sex Drive
- Vaginal Dryness
- Insomnia/Sleep Disturbance
- Concentration/Memory Problems
- Dry, Thinning, or Oily Skin
- Hair Loss
- Joint Pain/Muscle Aches
- Swelling
- Weight Gain/Changes in Appetite
- Anxiety/Depression/Irritability
- Breast Tenderness
- Fatigue
- Lack of Energy and Sense of Well-Being
Comprehensive Approach
- Discussion of symptoms and expectations
- Review of medical history
- Physical exam, pelvic and Pap smear • Testing of hormone levels
- Discussion of various components of Bioidentical Hormone Therapy recommendations, and preferred delivery method
- Mammogram, pelvic ultrasound • Visit with nutritionist
Key Hormones
Estriol is considered a less potent estrogen and functions to balance out other hormones. Estriol has been in longstanding use; however, it is not approved by the FDA.
Estradiol relieves many of the symptoms listed such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, insomnia, decreased concentration or memory, dry, thinning skin, joint aches and muscle aches, swelling, anxiety/depression/irritability, bone loss, fatigue, and a general lack of drive/sense of well-being.
Progesterone – Progesterone levels diminish with menopause, stress,
surgical removal of the ovaries, and other conditions. Benefits of progesterone include: helps balance estrogen, improves sleep, calming effect, lowers blood pressure, helps the body use and eliminate fats, may protect against breast cancer, increases scalp hair, helps fluid balance, increases the metabolic rate, is anti- inflammatory, stimulates the production of new bone, improves libido, protects the uterine lining from overgrowth, and diminishes night sweats and hot flashes.
Testosterone – Testosterone levels diminish due to menopause, chemotherapy, childbirth, depression, birth control pills, some medications, excess stress, and many other conditions. Testosterone is naturally metabolized to estrogen, achieving balance. Benefits of testosterone include increased libido, sense of emotional well-being, increased muscle mass and strength, improved memory and skin, and enhanced weight loss and bone strength.
DHEA – is a prohormone that is converted into testosterone, estrogens and other beneficial hormones which regulate fat and mineral metabolism, endocrine function, support healthy immune cell activity, enhance overall sense of well- being, and may support a healthy ratio of lean muscle to fat mass.
Financial Policy
Well-woman exams, ultrasounds, labs, and nutritionist visits are filed with your insurance. You will be responsible for any copayment amount or coinsurance amount at the time of service. You will also be responsible for any portion of these services that are not paid for by your insurance company.
The fee for initial consultation is $295.00 and is due in full at the time of service and will not be filed to insurance. For your convenience, you will be given a statement of charges should you wish to file with your insurance company individually.
Follow-Up Visits
- Discussion of results
- Lab interpretation
- Renewal of Prescription
A Word About Compounding Pharmacies...
We work with local accredited compounding pharmacies that formulate reliable medications for you based on your choice of troche, topical gel, topical cream, or vaginal cream. These medications may or may not be covered by your insurance company. For questions regarding coverage for compounded medications, contact your insurance compnay directly.