Have you noticed physical changes affecting your body as you grow older? Hormonal imbalance can create discomfort in many areas of your body. Defy of Indiana offers bioidentical hormone replacement therapy and pellet therapy to target and manage these symptoms. Explore the advantages that these treatments can bring to patients of all genders by reading a recent article published by your Defy provider.
Bioidentical Hormone Therapy and Pellet Therapy for Men and Women
As we age, our hormones shift, often leading to a cascade of unwanted symptoms. For both men and women, imbalances in testosterone, estrogen, and other hormones can significantly impact energy levels, libido, mood, weight, and overall well-being. Enter bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), a treatment gaining traction for its promise of a more natural approach to restoring hormonal balance.
What are Bioidentical Hormones?
Unlike traditional hormone replacement therapy derived from synthetic sources, BHRT utilizes hormones chemically identical to those produced by the human body. These hormones are typically extracted from plant sources like yams and wild yam extract, then compounded into customized formulas mimicking the body’s natural hormone profile. Proponents of BHRT argue that this “molecular match” fosters better absorption and utilization by the body, potentially leading to fewer side effects.
BHRT for Men
Testosterone, the primary male sex hormone, plays a crucial role in shaping a man’s physical and mental health. Unfortunately, testosterone levels naturally decline with age, often starting around age 30. This dip can manifest in various ways, including:
- Decreased libido/sexual function
- Erectile dysfunction
- Fatigue and low energy levels
- Loss of muscle mass and bone density
- Mood swings and depression
- Weight gain
BHRT can offer relief for men struggling with these symptoms. Through various administration methods like gels, creams or pellets, bioidentical testosterone can be replenished, potentially improving:
- Sexual function and desire
- Muscle strength and bone health
- Energy levels and mood
- Cognitive function and sleep quality
- Weight loss
However, it’s crucial to emphasize that BHRT is not a magic bullet. Testosterone therapy should always be conducted under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional who closely monitors blood levels and adjusts dosages as needed. The Defy of Indiana providers have undergone extensive training to ensure proper dosing and monitoring while undergoing pellet therapy.
BHRT for Women
For women, hormonal changes are most prominent during perimenopause and menopause, when estrogen, progesterone and testosterone production significantly decline. This hormonal flux can trigger a spectrum of symptoms, including:
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Vaginal dryness and discomfort
- Mood swings and irritability
- Sleep disturbances and fatigue
- Loss of bone density and increased risk of osteoporosis
- Weight gain/belly fat
BHRT can address these issues by supplementing declining testosterone, estrogen and progesterone levels. Potential benefits for women include:
- Relief from hot flashes and night sweats
- Improved sexual function/satisfaction
- Enhanced mood and cognitive function
- Increased bone density and reduced risk of osteoporosis
- Improved sleep quality and energy levels
- Weight loss/reduced belly fat
Women considering BHRT should consult a qualified BHRT provider like those at Defy of Indiana for a thorough evaluation and individualized treatment plan.
Pellet Therapy
Among the various delivery methods for BHRT, pellet therapy has garnered notable attention for its long-lasting and convenient nature. Tiny rice-sized pellets, containing customized hormone blends, are inserted beneath the skin, typically in the hip area. These pellets gradually release hormones into the bloodstream over a period of several months, eliminating the need for daily or weekly dosing.
Pellet therapy offers several advantages over other BHRT delivery methods:
- Convenience: Long-lasting pellets require fewer dosing adjustments compared to creams, patches, or pills.
- Slow and Steady Release: pellets get into the blood stream based on cardiac output. When your heart pumps, blood flows over your pellets releasing trickles of BHRT into your blood stream.
- Reduced Side Effects: Sustained, low-dose hormone release may minimize side effects like mood swings or breast tenderness.
Symptom Improvement: Studies report symptom relief with pellet therapy of 80%-100%.
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is an option to managing hormonal imbalances in both men and women but is not a one-size fits all solution. At Defy of Indiana, we take the time to go through your individual health history, listen to your concerns, evaluate customized lab work, and then come up with a collaborative approach for a plan tailored just for you! Contact our team online or reach us by phone at (317) 361-4481 to begin this process.
Ultimately, the decision to use BHRT is YOURS. Our goal is to educate you so you can decide if this option to navigate hormonal shifts and symptoms and potentially find a more balanced approach to health is for you!