Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy

Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy in Perrysburg, Ohio

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BHRT for Women

Today's women prefer natural hormones. In a survey of a nationally representative sample of 1,009 women aged 40 and older, 83% said they would prefer to use hormones that are similar to their own body's hormones. Bio-identical hormones include estrone (EI), estradiol (E2), estriol (E3), progesterone, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and pregnenolone. These "Body identical" hormones do not trigger the negative side effects that most women experience from the synthetic hormones that are most often prescribed.

The goals of BHRT therapy include:

Alleviating the symptoms caused by the natural decrease in production of hormones by the body
Giving the protective benefits which were originally provided by naturally occurring hormones
Re-establishing a hormone balance

Every woman is unique. That is why we work together with patients and compounding pharmacists to provide customized BHRT in the best strength and dosage form to meet each woman's specific needs and minimize the potential for side effects.

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BHRT for Men

Men experience a similar decline in hormone levels that women experience when they go through menopause. This is known as andropause in men, and this change occurs more slowly starting around the age of 30. Testosterone levels in men typically drop about 1% per year. It is estimated that 40% of men between the ages of 54 and 64 have levels below the lower limit of normal.

These lower levels of testosterone play a critical role in the quality and quantity of life in males. The decline in testosterone levels have been shown to be a risk factor for heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, osteoporosis, and diabetes. The goal of testosterone replacement in men is to bring the levels back into a normal range while managing the symptoms of low testosterone levels.

Hormone Replacement | Pellets

Pellets are the most natural way to deliver bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) in both men and women. Pellets deliver a consistent release of hormone levels over an extended period of time, typically 3 months for women and 5 months for men. This means only fewer visits to the medical office per year! The procedure typically takes 10–15 minutes, and most people are comfortable resuming daily activities immediately after their appointment. Best of all, your dosage is customized based on your labs. Click here to learn more.

FYI

What are pellets?

Pellets are made up of either estradiol or testosterone. The hormones are plant derived, then pressed or fused into very small solid cylinders. These pellets are larger than a grain of rice and smaller than a 'Tic Tac'. In the Unites States, pellets are made by a licensed compounding pharmacist and delivered in sterile glass vials.

How do I know if I am a candidate for pellets?

Why are pellets optimal for hormone replacement?

Pellets deliver consistent, healthy levels of hormones for 3-6 months, depending on the dosage. They avoid the fluctuations, or ups and downs, or hormone levels seen with every other method of delivery. It is the fluctuation in hormones that causes many of the unwanted side effects and symptoms a patient experiences. Pellets do not increase the risk of blood clots like conventional or synthetic hormone replacement therapy. In studies, when compared to conventional hormone replacement therapy, pellets have been shown to be superior for relief of menopausal symptoms, maintenance of bone density, restoration of sleep patterns, improved sex drive, libido, sexual response and performance. Even patients who have failed other types of hormone therapy have a very high success rate with pellets. In addition, there is no other method of hormone delivery that is as convenient for the patient as pellets.

How and where do you insert pellets?

What are potential complications from inserting hormone pellets?

Complications from the insertion of pellets include minor bleeding, bruising, dis-coloration of the skin, infection, and possible extrusion of the pellet. Other than slight bruising, or discoloration of the skin these complications are very rare. Extended exposure to moisture (swimming, hot tubs, bath tubs) is avoided for 4 to 5 days, and vigorous physical activity is avoided for 48 hours in women and up to 5 to 7 days in men.

What can I expect after pellet insertion?

After pellets are inserted, patients may notice that they have more energy, sleep better and feel happier. Muscle mass and bone density will increase while fatty tissue decreases. Patients may notice increased strength, coordination and physical performance. They may see an improvement in skin tone and hair texture. Concentration and memory may improve as will overall physical and sexual health.

Do pellets have the same danger of breast cancer as other forms of hormone replacement?

Pellets

What are the most common side effects when the pellets are first inserted?

When a patient first starts hormone therapy there may be mild, temporary breast tenderness; which gets better on its own. Hormone receptors may be very sensitive and take time to adjust. There may be a temporary water weight gain which will also resolve on its own. The body will tone up, as bone density and muscle mass increase and fatty tissue decreases. Patients may experience a mild form of "puberty' as their hormonal levels come up into normal ranges.

How soon will I feel the effects of the pellets?

How long do pellets last?

Do the pellets need to be removed every 3-6 months?

Do men need hormone replacement?

Testosterone levels begin to decline in men beginning in their 30's. Most men maintain adequate levels of testosterone into their mid-40's to mid-50's, some into their late 70's early 80's. Men should be tested when they begin to show signs of testosterone deficiency. Even men in their 30's can be testosterone deficient and show signs of bone loss. Most men need to be tested around 50 years of age. It is never too late to benefit from hormone therapy.

Do patients need progesterone when they use the pellets?

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