Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) has become an extremely popular option for both men and women looking to restore healthy hormone levels due to deficiencies or natural aging. Our Balance Hormone Clinic clinic specializes in customized BHRT programs to get your hormones back in balance and help you feel like the best version of yourself again.
Imbalances in key hormones like estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, thyroid, cortisol and others can cause a wide variety of symptoms. Here are some of the most common signs that your hormones may be out of optimal ranges:
* Hot flashes, night sweats * Vaginal dryness, painful intercourse * Unexplained fatigue, lack of motivation * Weight gain, increased belly fat * Depression, anxiety, irritability * Brain fog, memory lapses * Sleep disturbances, insomnia * Loss of muscle mass
* Loss of muscle mass and strength * Increased body fat, belly fat * Low libido, erectile dysfunction * Depression, irritability, anxiety * Fatigue, lack of motivation * Poor concentration and memory * Hot flashes, sweating * Sleep disturbances
If you are experiencing any of those symptoms, bioidentical hormone testing and customized treatment may significantly help to restore optimal levels and relief.
Bioidentical hormones are identical on a molecular level to the hormones naturally made in the human body. They are typically derived from plant sources and custom-formulated in a compounding pharmacy to match your individual hormonal needs.
There are many advantages to customized bioidentical hormone therapy:
Bioidentical hormones work by supplementing your body's natural hormones that have declined due to aging or other issues like stress, poor diet, toxins and genetic factors.
As we age, critical hormones like estrogen, progesterone and testosterone start to decline, causing many of the symptoms associated with menopause and andropause.
Bioidentical hormone pellets, creams or injections help to restore your hormone levels back to an optimal range to relieve symptoms and help you feel healthy, energetic and youthful again.
We specialize in testosterone and estrogen pellet implants, which provide a time-released dosage of hormones steadily over 3-6 months. Pellet therapy is extremely convenient as there are no daily applications required. We also offer bioidentical creams, patches, tablets and injections.
At Balance Hormone Clinic, we customize fully individualized bioidentical hormone replacment plans based on your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle and hormonal blood panel results.
Our standard protocol when starting BHRT is:
We specialize in hormone pellet implants, which release steady pre-determined dosages of hormones over 3-6 months. Pellet therapy eliminates the need for daily applications of creams or medications.
We also offer bioidentical creams, patches, tablets and injections for maximum flexibility to meet your individual needs and preferences.
Follow-up blood tests and symptom evaluations are done routinely to ensure optimal hormone levels and relief of treatment goals. Dose adjustments are made accordingly.
Many people don't realize that bioidentical hormones are not necessarily safer or more effective than synthetic hormones for menopausal symptoms. They come from plant sources, but have the same chemical structure as hormones made by the ovaries. More research is still needed to fully understand the risks and benefits of bioidenticals compared to conventional hormone therapy.
It's critical to have declining hormone levels addressed as early as possible to avoid progression of symptoms and related health issues.
The earlier hormone deficiencies or imbalances are properly diagnosed, the sooner treatment can begin leading to:
Getting proper testing and starting a customized bioidentical replacment regimen without delay can help restore wellness and vibrancy — leading to you looking and feeling years younger.
At Balance Hormone Clinic of Richmond, our highly-trained medical providers specialize exclusively in advanced bioidentical hormone therapies.
We stay current on all of the latest research and breakthroughs in the rapidly evolving science of hormonal health and aging.
Our experts will take the time to listen and understand your unique situation, symptoms, and treatment goals.
We take a comprehensive, integrative approach fully centered around optimizing your hormone levels and achieving lifechanging results — not just masking symptoms with drugs.
You can feel confident you are receiving the most advanced bioidentical replacment therapies from true experts dedicated to helping you live your best life with energy, health and happiness.
There are several key topics around bioidentical hormones that are important to understand when considering treatment:
Comprehensive testing of all major hormones along with analysis of symptoms and health history are required to determine if hormone imbalances or deficiencies are present. Specialized tests like saliva panels can provide insight unattainable through standard bloodwork.
Balance Hormone Clinic utilizes advanced saliva testing for precision results. We also analyze standard blood panels, evaluate lifestyle and risk factors and confirm genetic risks for hormonal disorders. Testing properly identifies issues, guides customized treatment plans and monitors ongoing progress.
The molecular structure of hormones makes a significant difference in how your body recognizes and utilizes them. As identical copies of natrual hormones, properly prescribed bioidentical therapy provides optimal restoration your body best responds to.
There are optimal ranges and ratios between key hormones like estrogen, progesterone and testosterone required for full benefits. Our protocols are designed to delicately optimize these intricate balances to elevate all aspects of health.
Hormone levels fluctuate monthly, seasonally and as we age. Ongoing blood testing identifies changes so that bioidential doses can be adjusted to keep hormones balanced as time passes. We tailor restore youthful ratios for longterm gains.
Proper nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress management and targeted nutraceuticals provide critical foundation for hormone health. Our experts provide integrated guidance to help amplify treatment results even further through smart lifestyle enhancements personalized for your needs.
Richmond's moderate climate with plenty of parks, trails and waterways provides an ideal setting for HRT results. Adjusting hormone levels takes patience through occasional ups and downs.
Having ample outlets for relaxation and reflection amplifies resilience through the process. Richmond's many gardens, museums and historic sites offer welcome escapes from daily stresses during this journey.
The James River Park System gives over 500 acres of trails, forests and wetlands right through the heart of Richmond — perfect for contemplative walks to clear the mind. There are also community centers, yoga studios and wellness facilitites to support healthy lifestyle changes.
For testing needs, there are high quality independent labs like AnyLabTestNow along with hospital outpatient centers to provide accurate hormone blood panels.
Richmond also offers an abundance gyms, trainers and studios to build lean muscle safely through intelligent strength programs. Services like Trusted Trainer offer personalized in-home training options as well.
There are also spas like La Vita Spa or Contours Express that offer therapeutic massages, body treatments and skin care regimens which further amplify results.
For dining, Richmond has specialty options like Crystal Jade, Stella or farm-to-table Supper to provide nutritous cuisine during treatment.
Make sure to also visit historical attractions like the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Virginia State Capitol, Maymont Estate or the American Civil War Museum which all make for insightful yet relaxing weekend diversions while adjusting to hormone changes.
We sincerely hope this guide has helped provide clarity regarding common hormone issues, testing options, benefits of properly prescribed bioidentical therapies, treatment overviews and recommendations to further support your hormone health on a foundational level.
Do not hesitate to reach out to our caring medical team at Balance Hormone Clinic clinic for answers to any other questions you may have on your journey towards hormone wellness and an improved quality of life. We are always happy to help in any way possible!
