Hormones play a crucial role in regulating many processes in the body. As we age, hormone levels can become imbalanced, leading to unpleasant symptoms that affect quality of life. At The Hormone Hub in Springfield, we offer bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) to help patients restore optimal hormonal balance and enjoy an improved sense of well-being.
Bioidentical hormones are identical in molecular structure to the hormones produced naturally in the body. This allows them to bind properly to receptors and mimic the function of endogenous hormones. In contrast, synthetic hormones often have a different structure that may not offer the same benefits.
Some key advantages of bioidentical hormone therapy provided by The Hormone Hub include:
At The Hormone Hub, our goal is to make patients feel like the best version of themselves again. Bioidentical hormone therapy can help both women and men find relief from unpleasant menopause or andropause symptoms.
Keep reading to learn more about how BHRT works and why it may be right for you. Our Springfield clinic has helped many patients optimize their hormonal health - we hope to do the same for you!
So what exactly is bioidentical hormone replacement therapy? Here's an overview of the key facts:
The goal of bioidentical hormone therapy is to restore hormones to optimal levels in order to alleviate troubling symptoms. This helps patients feel more like themselves again.
There are a few key reasons why bioidentical hormones tend to be preferable over synthetic versions:
In our experience treating patients with bioidentical HRT, most people find the results more favorable compared to synthetic hormone medications. The body recognizes and utilizes bioidenticals better.
While every person is unique, The Hormone Hub has found BHRT to be very effective for most patients in helping restore wellness and vitality.
Bioidentical hormone therapy may be a good option for both women and men experiencing any of the following:
Both peri and post-menopausal women as well as middle-aged men tend to benefit greatly from having their hormones balanced through bioidentical HRT. However, issues like thyroid disorders can cause hormone disruption at any age in both sexes.
The Hormone Hub conducts thorough testing and only prescribes BHRT to patients when it is truly warranted and helpful.
Bioidentical hormones are chemically identical to those produced naturally in the body and have shown in studies to be just as effective as synthetic hormones for treating menopause symptoms. However, they remain controversial as the long-term risks compared to synthetic hormones are still unknown.
If you decide to pursue bioidentical hormone therapy with The Hormone Hub, your treatment journey will begin with an initial consultation. Here's what you can expect:
Having the right information upfront is key for creating an effective BHRT regimen. The Hormone Hub takes the time to properly evaluate each patient's unique needs and biomarkers.
This strategic approach allows us to come up with a protocol designed to restore hormone balance, revitalize health, and help you feel your best again.
If you decide to move forward with bioidentical HRT at The Hormone Hub, here is a look at how the process unfolds:
The professional compounding pharmacy we partner with can formulate high quality bioidentical versions of all the major hormones including:
Helps regulate menstrual cycle, bone density, skin thickness, and more in women. Imbalances can lead to hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood swings, insomnia, brain fog, and heart disease risk.
Forms: Estriol, estrone, estradiol
Works synergistically with estrogen in women for menstrual cycling and fertility. Essential for mood, sleep, bone health, and more. Declines significantly during perimenopause and menopause.
Vital hormone for both men and women related to libido, energy, cognition, muscle mass, bone density, and more. Deficiency worsens with age.
Made in the adrenal glands and serves as a precursor to other sex hormones. Helps regulate immune function, cellular repair, inflammation, energy, mood, and cognition. Levels peak in the 20s and decline with age.
Produced by the pineal gland to regulate sleep/wake cycles. Supplementation can improve sleep quality. Melatonin has additional anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
Regulates metabolism, body temperature, heart rate, digestion, and more. Imbalances lead to cardiovascular risks, weight gain, fatigue, hair loss, depression, and other issues.
Released by adrenal glands to regulate blood sugar, metabolism, blood pressure, inflammation, and stress response. Excess cortisol can be detrimental to health.
While bioidentical hormone therapy provides enormous benefits, a healthy lifestyle maximizes those results:
Caring for your body and mind enhances hormone balance and your overall wellbeing. A comprehensive approach leads to the best outcome.
If you live in the Springfield area and want excellent medical care, choose The Hormone Hub for your hormone therapy needs. Here's what sets our clinic apart:
The Hormone Hub strives to deliver unparalleled hormonal care and help patients enjoy healthier, more vibrant lives. We've transformed many lives in Springfield already - we can do the same for you!
The timing of beginning bioidentical hormone therapy can make a difference in how smoothly the process goes. Here in Springfield, the changing seasons impact our mood, sleep, activity levels, and more.
Many patients like to start BHRT at the beginning of springtime as the weather improves and days get longer. The natural boost in energy and optimism this season brings makes it easier to implement positive lifestyle changes.
Spring also means more opportunities to get outside and be active in Springfield's parks and trails. Increased sunlight exposure allows the body to produce more vitamin D.
However, some people find the hotter, more humid weather of summer makes symptoms like hot flashes even more bothersome. For them, early fall may be a better time to commence therapy. As outdoor temperatures cool down, some menopausal symptoms tend to improve on their own. Starting therapy during this seasonal relief allows the body to adjust more smoothly.
The winter holiday season often brings stress and disruptions to routine, making it a difficult period to begin therapy. However, some people want to start the new year feeling refreshed and ready for wellness. Just be aware the shorter winter days may sap energy levels.
Always consult your The Hormone Hub physician about when is right for you. They can provide guidance based on health markers, lifestyle considerations, and our local Springfield climate patterns. Being strategic about timing sets you up for the greatest benefits!
Before embarking on hormone therapy, it's imperative to get lab testing done to evaluate your baseline hormone levels. This allows our physicians at The Hormone Hub to develop a treatment plan tailored to your body's specific needs.
Here are some options for where to get lab testing in the Springfield area:
Be sure to follow instructions for preparation carefully before testing - some require fasting, certain supplements to avoid, etc. for most accurate results. Also try to test at consistent times, like 8 AM.
Lab tests check levels of key hormones like estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, DHEA, insulin, free T3 and T4, IGF-1, and more. Genetic testing helps predict responses to different therapies.
This data allows for precision targeting of imbalances through bioidentical hormones. Accurate testing sets the foundation for successful treatment.
While undergoing bioidentical hormone therapy through The Hormone Hub, there are many therapeutic options in Springfield to support your journey back to optimal wellness:
Taking advantage of these healing modalities improves mood, lowers stress, reduces pain, boosts immunity, increases energy, and promotes blood flow. All of these support overall wellness and hormone balance.
Pursuing regular therapeutic self-care makes your hormone optimization journey easier. Springfield has abundant resources available so take advantage!
Exercise is vital for healthy aging, maintaining independence, and promoting hormone balance. During bioidentical therapy through The Hormone Hub, staying active helps patients feel and function their best.
Springfield has some excellent fitness centers to help you stay in shape while optimizing your wellness:
Regardless of your current fitness level, Springfield gyms offer programs suitable for active aging. Pairing consistent exercise with your bioidentical hormone therapy is a winning combination for health!
Frequently Asked Questions about BHRT:
The most common hormone imbalances treated with BHRT include deficiencies in:
However, many other hormonal issues may also benefit from properly prescribed bioidentical therapy. Our physicians can identify where you are lacking based on a combination of symptoms and lab testing.
There are several ways to deliver bioidentical hormone doses:
These different options allow your treatment to be customized according to your preferences and needs. Our doctors and compounding specialists will advise you on the best method for your particular situation.
Most patients begin noticing improvements in symptoms within 2-4 weeks after commencing bioidentical hormones. However, it may take 3-6 months of therapy for more substantial benefits to fully develop.
Each person responds uniquely based on the severity of their deficiencies and other health factors. Be patient as your body regulates hormonal balance. Regular testing allows doctors to tweak dosing so you feel your best.
There are far fewer risks associated with properly prescribed bioidentical hormones compared to synthetic hormone medications. However, potential side effects may include:
BY closely tracking a patient's response through lab tests and exams, any side effects can be minimized by adjusting dosing. Quality compounded BHRT administered under a doctor's supervision is very safe for most people.
Symptoms of hormone imbalance along with confirmatory lab testing indicate if you may benefit from BHRT. Key signs include hot flashes, night sweats, brain fog, anxiety, irritability, fatigue, low libido, erectile dysfunction, weight gain, hair loss, and insomnia.
Our experienced physicians at The Hormone HubHorm
