What is BHRT?
BHRT is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy. As we age, our hormones naturally decline and we can feel sluggish, have trouble sleeping, recover less quickly, and have issues in the bedroom. BHRT uses hormones that are molecularly identical to the hormones your body makes in order to raise your levels back up to more youthful state and decrease symptoms of aging.
How do I know if I need the treatment?
By discussing your medical history, symptoms and lab work with our Medical Experts, you can decide together if BHRT is right for you. How do you know if you should see your medical expert in the first place?
If you are a woman and experiencing any of the following: hot flashes, insomnia, decreased libido, vaginal dryness, fatigue, difficulty with concentration or memory, unexplained weight gain, new depression or anxiety.
If you are a man and experiencing any of the following: decreased muscle mass, hair loss, mood changes, increased body fat, fatigue, low libido, difficulty with erection, difficulty with concentration or memory.
How long does the process take?
First, you will meet with one of our medical experts to discuss your goals, symptoms, and medical history. Then you will get a blood test so the medical experts can see your hormone levels and rule out any other risk factors. The medical expert then determines which hormones are appropriate for you and the starting dose. The BHRT prescription is submitted and the medication will arrive at your house within a few days to a week. We will also make sure you have full instructions for the form of the hormones that were prescribed to you. It may take up to 3 months to feel the full effect of your BHRT and you may need to work with your medical experts during that time to achieve the right dosage for your body. Once the effective dose is attained, you will check in with your medical experts every 3 months to rerun blood work and check for symptoms.
How does it work?
Hormones decrease as we age for both men and women. By using the same hormones that your body would make naturally as your younger version, you can reduce symptoms of aging that are often caused by hormone deficiencies. Each hormone prescription is customized to you and may be delivered orally, as a cream, or a shot.
How do I know if the treatment is working?
You will know it is working by noticing a difference in your initial symptomatology and your medical experts will see changes in your lab work. For some patients, it can take up to 3 months to feel the full benefit. Because everyone is unique it can take some communication with your medical experts to get your dosages just right for best results.
Are there any side effects?
As with anything, if the dosage is too high for you, you may experience new symptoms such as:
- For women: facial hair growth, irregular bleeding, mood changes, breast tenderness, headaches or bloating.
- For men: acne or oily skin, fluid retention, breast enlargement, prostate swelling decreased the testicular size, mood swings, aggression.
Your medical experts will work with you to prevent these side effects and please contact your medical experts immediately if you are experiencing them.