What is Hormone Replacement Therapy and How Is It Used?
By: Dr. Darin Zimmerman & Laura Zimmerman of Re-Balance Health & Wellness
Are you experiencing fatigue, unexplained weight gain, anxiety, poor sleep, lackluster gym results, or sexual dysfunction? If so, hormonal imbalance may be the root cause.
As we age, our bodies naturally produce fewer hormones, leading to a decline in overall health and function. Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) offers a safe and effective way to restore hormonal balance and address these unwanted symptoms.
Hormonal imbalance can be a tricky puzzle. Its symptoms can often mimic other health conditions, making it difficult to diagnose. Our bodies rely on a delicate balance of various hormones, including sex hormones, stress hormones, thyroid hormones, and insulin. Hormones are viewed as a family and they function best when they’re in harmony. When hormonal dysfunction occurs, it can disrupt our overall health. Our goal is to help restore balance and address the root causes of hormonal imbalance. To help illustrate the complexity, let’s examine two hormonal imbalances:
- Insulin resistance can have far-reaching consequences. While it’s well-known for causing weight gain, diabetes, and other health problems, it can also lead to hormonal imbalances resulting in acne, facial hair, mood swings, and more. As we age, imbalanced sex hormones can exacerbate insulin resistance, making it harder to manage. Focusing solely on A1C levels may not be enough. By addressing both insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances, we can better manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
- Thyroid dysfunction is a common yet often overlooked health problem. Hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone, can lead to a wide range of symptoms. These include fatigue, depression, menstrual irregularities, hair loss, elevated cholesterol, hypertension, and an increased risk of heart disease. Additionally, hypothyroidism can contribute to insulin resistance, highlighting the interconnectedness of our body’s hormonal systems. By addressing thyroid dysfunction, we can improve overall health and well-being.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has been unfairly stigmatized. Many people believe it increases the risk of blood clots, cancers, heart attacks, and strokes. However, much of this concern stems from studies using non-bioidentical hormones and newer data has debunked many of the myths associated with HRT.
Unlike traditional hormone replacement therapies, BHRT uses hormones that are molecularly identical to those produced by your body. This reduces the risk of adverse side effects and has been associated with numerous health benefits. For example, bioidentical progesterone, a hormone identical to the one naturally produced by the human body, has been shown to reduce the risk of breast cancer. Progestin, a non-bioidentical hormone used in some widely publicized trials, has been shown to increase the risk of breast cancer. If patients don’t understand the nuances of clinical studies, how can they navigate the available treatment options? At Re-Balance Health and Wellness, we go beyond the headlines and provide our patients with accurate information about the benefits and risks of BHRT. This empowers them to make informed decisions about their healthcare.
Are you suffering from any of the following examples of hormonal imbalance?
- Perimenopausal symptoms: Hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, sleep disturbances.
- Post-hysterectomy concerns: Increased risk of certain health conditions.
- Breast cancer concerns: Worries about your personal risk.
- Testosterone-related issues: Low libido, erectile dysfunction, decreased muscle mass, reduced gains at the gym, persistent abdominal fat, low stamina and low energy.
If so, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) may be a helpful option.
- For perimenopausal women: BHRT can alleviate symptoms and potentially reduce the risk of heart disease.
- For post-hysterectomy women: Estradiol treatment can lower the risk of breast cancer.
- For breast cancer concerns: Bioidentical progesterone may help reduce your risk.
- For testosterone-related issues: Low testosterone can lead to various health problems. BHRT can help restore hormonal balance.
If so, speak with one of our expert providers to find out if bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) may be right for you. At Re-Balance Health and Wellness, our experienced clinicians specialize in diagnosing and treating hormonal imbalances. We’re committed to helping you reclaim your health and vitality.
Visit our website at rebalanacehw.com and schedule a free discovery call today to learn more about how BHRT can transform your life.
At Re-Balance Health and Wellness, a leading functional medicine clinic with offices in Ellicott City, MD and Washington, DC, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve optimal health and wellness. Our patience-centric approach focuses on addressing the root causes of your health challenges, rather than only treating symptoms.
Whether you’re struggling with chronic fatigue, autoimmune disorders, digestive issues, or just not feeling your best, our experienced functional medicine practitioners can provide personalized care tailored to your unique needs. We offer a wide range of effective treatments including hormone replacement therapy, health coaching, detoxification, and lifestyle modifications.
Ready to take control of your health? Schedule a discovery call today and discover the transformative power of functional medicine. Together, we will build your roadmap to optimal health.
