Getting Back to Normal With Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy
By Dr. Franchell Hamilton
Photo by Szabolcs Toth
If you are not feeling like yourself anymore you may want to consider bio-identical hormone therapy.
Believe it or not, your quality of life is directly affected by the balance of your hormones. Our hormone levels decrease as we age and it can sometimes cause uncomfortable symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, decreased libido, increased fat gain around the abdominal region, and depression. While not an exhaustive list, these are just a few of the symptoms that can affect your quality of life.
I believe that just because you age doesn’t mean that you have to suffer. Women in particular have a unique cross to bear when it comes to maintaining a healthy hormonal balance. The complex combination of multiple types of hormones, including testosterone, allows them to remain strong and resilient, mentally, physically and emotionally.
Hormone imbalances can have detrimental consequences to both men and women in those areas as well as lead to failing health.
What are Bio-Identical Hormones?
I use bio-identical hormones for all of my patients rather than synthetic hormones when using pellets. Bio-identical hormones are identical to the hormones that are naturally produced in the body and are designed to act in the body just like hormones our bodies produce. They are derived from plant extracts such as yams and soy, so they are a natural alternative to synthetic hormones. And unlike synthetic hormones, bio-identical hormones do not cause blood clots or cancer with long term use.
Pellets are typically inserted underneath the skin and can last 3-4 months with a slow release of the hormones that are inserted. All hormones are used by both men and women just in different dosages depending on the gender, so yes, women have and use testosterone and men have and use estrogen. I personally dose patients based on symptoms in combination with blood work.
What to expect with bio-identical hormone replacement therapy.
Within the first two weeks of starting hormone replacement therapy, our clients begin to notice the positive changes and benefits, which can initially be subtle. Women suffering from the effects of pre and post-menopausal changes know varying degrees of discomfort, including hot flashes, weight gain, and mood swings that can be mild or debilitating. It’s no wonder that most of my patients have experienced benefits that have dramatically improved their quality of life.
Benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
• Increased Libido
• Increased Vaginal Moisture
• Better, Deeper Sleep
• No Hot Flashes, No Night Sweats
• Positive Temperament and Elevated Mood
• Increased Energy
• Better Focus
• Increased Endurance
• Healthier Skin, Hair, and Nails
• Weight loss and/or Weight Maintenance
What are the different hormones you replace?
• Estrogen - maintains the normal functions of female sex organs, but in both genders, it protects against bone loss, improves mood, cognition, and concentration as well as improves skin aging.
• Progesterone - a precursor of other sex hormones, promotes bone building and protects against osteoporosis, endometrial as well as breast cancer. Progesterone also promotes fat burning for energy, helps with insomnia and improves mood as well as increases mental alertness.
• Testosterone — enhances libido, improves energy level, maintains skin and hair health and maintains muscle and lean body mass.
• DHEA — a hormone that is converted by the body into male and female sex hormones. It also improves cognitive function and muscle strength.
These are just a few benefits your sex hormones provide, so if you’re not feeling like yourself, talk to a specialist and consider having your hormones adjusted.
References
Garnet Anderson, PhD, director, public health sciences division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle.
Cleveland Clinic: “Hormone Therapy (HT), Understanding Benefits and Risks."
JoAnn E. Manson, MD, DrPH, chief, preventative medicine division, department of medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston.
National Cancer Institute: “Menopausal Hormone Therapy and Cancer Fact Sheet.
Bariatric Surgeon Dr. Franchell Hamilton is an accomplished speaker, author, consultant, and an influence in the health and wellness community. Through her years studying abroad, owning a private practice, and public speaking, Dr. Hamilton’s diverse skill set unlocks the potential in those who crave to reveal their best self.
Visit Dr. Hamilton’s website to learn more https://drfhamilton.com
Photo Courtesy of Dr. F. Hamilton