For females, several hormones are critical in maintaining balance and overall health. At Premier Physicians, we specialize in individualized bio-identical hormone management. Bio-identical hormones are exactly what they sound like. They are chemically identical to the hormones produced within the body and therefore greatly minimize the risks that synthetic hormones (which are modified) are associated with.
If you are experiencing one or more of the symptoms discussed below and believe you might be a candidate for bio-identical hormone therapy, contact our office to schedule an initial consultation. When considering options for hormone therapy, it is essential to be under the guidance and supervision of a physician trained in bio-identical hormone therapy (BHRT). Here at Premier Physicians, we prioritize providing safe, effective, and evidence based BHRT in an individualized and patient-centered approach.
Estrogen
This hormone often comes to mind when discussing women’s health. Estrogen is one of the main hormones involved in sexual and reproductive development in females. In addition to regulating the menstrual cycle, estrogen plays a vital role in the brain, blood vessels, bones, skin and hair, pelvic muscles, and urinary tract.
An estrogen imbalance in the body can lead to many physical manifestations, some of which can severely impact comfort and well-being.
Symptoms of Estrogen Imbalance
- Weight Gain in the abdomen, hips, and thighs
- Headaches
- Hot flashes
- Night Sweats
- Irregular Periods
- Poor Sleep
- Panic Attacks
- Depression with Anxiety or Agitation
- Cervical dysplasia
- Heavy Periods
- Fatigue
- Bloating
- Water Retention
- Swollen or Painful Breasts
- Hypothyroidism
Progesterone
Progesterone has many beneficial roles in addition to regulating estrogen. Progesterone’s primary reproductive function is thickening the uterine lining during each menstrual cycle in preparation for pregnancy and supporting the pregnancy once conception occurs.
Progesterone also regulates bleeding during menstruation, helps to improve mood, and supports thyroid function.
Bio-identical progesterone must not be confused with synthetic progestin. Synthetic progestin is not chemically identical to the progesterone produced in the body and has been linked to serious risks.
Symptoms of Progesterone Imbalance
- Irregular periods
- Hots flashes
- Night sweats and/or cold flashes
- Pain or discomfort during intercourse
Testosterone
While testosterone is consideredd the male sex hormone, testosterone also plays a vital role in females. A balance of testosterone in females is critical for maintaining and improving musculoskeletal health, supporting self-esteem, cognitive function, and sexual function.
Symptoms of Testosterone Imbalance
- Muscle loss
- Fatigue
- Weight Gain
- Low Self-Esteem
- Thinning and/or Dry Hair
- Anxiety
- Sagging Cheeks and/or Droopy Eyelids
- Worsening Memory
- Depression
- Hypoglycemia
- Agitation and Anger
- Facial Hair or Unwanted Hair Growth
- Acne
- Salt and Sugar Cravings
- Insulin Resistance
DHEA
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is he precursor hormone that the body uses to create the male and female sex hormones. The levels of DHEA peak around age 25 and then steadily decrease with age. Because DHEA is produced in he adrenal glands, stress can cause adrenal fatigue and a decrease in the production of DHEA. Studies have shown a correlation between DHEA levels and longevity, lower incidence of disease, and overall health.
Symptoms of DHEA Imbalance
- General weakness or fatigue
- Difficulty controlling weight
- Menstrual irregularity
- Infertility
- Lowered immunity
- Lowered libido
- Depression
- Decreased bone density
- Reduced muscle mass
- Insomnia
- Brain fog
- Menopausal/Perimenopausal symptoms
FAQ
- Do I need to be experiencing menopause or perimenopause to receive BHRT?
○ Not necessarily! There are individuals from a variety of age groups experiencing different conditions and/or symptoms that may benefit greatly from BHRT. - should not undergo BHRT?
○ Dr. Kota will let you know if you are a good candidate for BHRT and outline the benefits and potential side effects of the treatment.
○ It is important to let the physician know of current or past conditions, allergies, and familial history with cancer or other endocrine and metabolic related illnesses - Is Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy Safe?
○ Yes! These hormones are identical to the hormones that your body produces. Therefore, they do not have the same risks as synthetic hormones which differ from the body’s natural hormones and potential interfere with their function.