Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) involves replenishing hormones that your body may no longer produce in sufficient amounts, such as estrogen, progesterone (female hormones), and testosterone (male hormones), to alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal decline.

When your body does not produce hormones like it used to, symptoms of declining hormone levels can include hot flashes, night sweats, fatigue, mood swings, difficulty sleeping, reduced libido, weight gain, vaginal dryness (in women), and decreased muscle mass or increased body fat (in men).

Adults experiencing signs of hormone imbalance who have been evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider should consider getting hormone therapy (HT).

HRT options include various forms of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, delivered through different methods such as pills, patches, gels, creams, and pellets. Both bioidentical and synthetic hormone options exist. Visit LA ViE MD in the Bay Area, CA, and we will help you determine which method is best based on your symptoms and health goals.

Some people may notice improvements within a few weeks, but full results typically take several months. Regular communication with a healthcare specialist is crucial for monitoring progress and making any necessary modifications to the treatment plan.

Like any medical treatment, HRT carries some risks, but for many women under the age of 60, the benefits often outweigh the potential risks. HRT has been shown to reduce symptoms of menopause and improve quality of life effectively. That said, safety depends on individual factors, such as your age, health history, and the type of hormones used. For some people, the risks may outweigh the benefits, which is why a personalized consultation with our specialist is essential before starting therapy. 

Potential risks of HRT can include an increased risk of blood clots, stroke, heart disease (for certain types of HRT in older women), and breast cancer (with long-term application of combined estrogen and progestin therapy). Common side effects of hormone therapy (HT) may include breast tenderness, headaches, and nausea, which often resolve with time. At LA ViE MD, we carefully monitor and adjust treatment to minimize these risks.

We conduct comprehensive blood work to assess your hormone levels, thyroid function, and other key indicators of overall health.

The duration of HRT is determined in consultation with our expert and depends on your specific symptoms, risks, and goals. Many individuals use HRT for a few years, while others may continue for longer with close monitoring.

Men can benefit from Hormone Replacement Therapy, most commonly in the form of Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT), for clinically low testosterone levels, causing symptoms like low libido, fatigue, or decreased muscle mass.

Bio-identical hormone therapy is a form of treatment that uses hormones chemically identical to those your body naturally produces, often derived from plant sources. It is preferred for its compatibility and effectiveness.

Bioidentical hormones are identical in molecular structure to human hormones, while synthetic hormones are designed to mimic the effects of the hormones your body naturally produces but have slight chemical alterations.

Bioidentical hormones may offer several potential benefits, especially for individuals looking for a more customized and natural-feeling hormone therapy. These benefits may include:

• Improved symptom relief from menopause or hormonal imbalances

   

• Potential for better tolerance and fewer side effects for some patients

   

• Customized dosing, often tailored to your specific hormonal needs

   

• Perceived as more “natural” due to their chemical similarity to human hormones