Hormone therapy is a way to manage changes in the body that can commonly occur as a result of the natural aging process and other factors. Choosing between bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) and traditional hormone therapy can be an important decision for many individuals seeking help with hormonal balance. This article will explore the differences between BHRT and traditional hormone therapy, how they work, their benefits, who can benefit from them, and what one can expect during the entire process.
If you would like to explore hormone therapy further and learn more about how you can benefit from a personalized hormone therapy regimen, schedule a consultation with Dr. Christopher Asandra. Dr. Asandra is one of Los Angeles’ and Orange County’s leading experts in rejuvenating treatments, hormone therapies, and more, creating personalized treatment plans for each patient, focusing primarily on their health, longevity, and vitality. Schedule a consultation today by completing our online contact form. If you have any further questions, please feel free to call our Beverly Hills or Newport Beach office at (424) 542-8881.
BHRT vs. Traditional Hormone Therapy
Understanding the differences between bioidentical hormones and traditional hormone therapies is an important topic for many adults, particularly women experiencing menopause or men dealing with low testosterone levels. These treatments can address different concerns, and what may work for one patient’s hormonal fluctuations might not produce the same effects for another. As we age, our hormones fluctuate drastically. This can be seen in multiple life stages, from early childhood development to adolescence and puberty to changes like menopause or decreased testosterone production later in life. While these are normal bodily functions, these changes can have significant effects on our health and well-being.
For women, hormone therapies are often a great way to alleviate menopause symptoms. Menopause is the condition that arises as menstrual cycles permanently cease. This can lead to weight gain, hair loss, hot flashes, chills, and many more unpleasant and bothersome symptoms. (1) Its counterpart in men is called andropause. Characterized by low testosterone, andropause can elicit symptoms like weight gain, mood swings, hair loss, erectile dysfunction, and more. (2)
Both men and women can seek out hormone therapy to manage symptoms associated with menopause and andropause. The choice between BHRT and traditional hormone therapy will depend on individual health goals and personal preferences.
Bioidentical hormones are compounds that have the same chemical structure as human hormones. They can help restore harmony and balance, positively influencing mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. Conversely, traditional hormone therapy often utilizes synthetic hormones.
Benefits
Both BHRT and traditional hormone therapy offer various advantages depending on the individual’s specific situation. When patients receive a customized hormone treatment regimen at our practice, they typically experience benefits like:
- Symptom relief: Both therapies can significantly reduce symptoms like hot flashes, insomnia, and mood swings.
- Improved energy levels: Many patients report feeling revitalized and more energetic after initiating therapy.
- Enhanced libido: Both options can boost sexual drive and satisfaction.
- Improved bone health: Hormone therapy can contribute to stronger bones, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
- Improved mood: Users often experience a reduction in negative mood symptoms.
- Better sleep quality: Patients frequently report deeper sleep cycles with decreased insomnia.
- Personalized treatment plans: These kinds of therapy can offer more precise formulations to target individual hormone deficiencies.
- Optimized overall health: Maintaining balanced hormone levels contributes to overall well-being and longevity.
Candidates
Candidates for BHRT or traditional hormone therapy generally include women experiencing menopause or perimenopause, men experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, such as fatigue and diminished libido, and adults wishing to enhance their quality of life and manage chronic hormonal imbalances effectively. A personal consultation with Dr. Asandra will enable you to identify which therapy aligns best with your health status and goals.
Consultation
During your consultation, we will evaluate your medical history and discuss any symptoms or concerns you may have regarding hormones. Blood tests and hormonal assessments can help facilitate an informed recommendation on whether BHRT or traditional hormone therapy suits your needs best. Patients should prepare to share all relevant health information and participate actively in crafting their personalized treatment plans.
To schedule your personal consultation, contact one of our offices or submit our online contact form.
Preparation
Once we have determined which hormone therapy option is ideal for you, you will receive preparation instructions that will help maximize the results of your treatment. Nearly all patients are required to undergo a series of blood tests to establish baseline hormone levels. During your consultation and other appointments, you will need to discuss your current medications to ensure that the effects of your hormone therapy will not be diminished through medication interference. Patients should also commit to adopting a healthy lifestyle, as regular exercise, optimal hydration, and a nutritious diet will help optimize the results of hormone therapy. Ensure to follow any additional specific instructions.
Procedure
For both types of hormone therapy, the procedure begins with a detailed assessment of your hormonal needs. Patients will receive their hormones in either pill form or through regularly scheduled injections. Transdermal patches, topical creams or gels, and subdermally inserted pellets are also common mediums. Each method has its advantages based on absorption rates and comfort.
Traditional hormone therapy includes the use of synthetic hormones to address hormonal imbalances in the body. (3) Often prescribed for women undergoing menopause, it aims to alleviate symptoms associated with estrogen deficiency. (3) Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy solutions frequently involve various forms of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, delivering hormones that mimic the body’s natural ones effectively. (4) You will have regular follow-up appointments throughout your treatment. At these appointments, you will discuss how your symptoms improve or worsen and how they have affected your daily life. Hormone therapy is more of a process than a procedure, so changes in your doses, diet, lifestyle, and more are frequently incorporated into treatment. You can also expect semi-frequent blood tests to monitor your new hormone levels, offering your care team another level of insight into how you are responding to treatment.
Recovery
Recovery from hormone therapy does not involve significant downtime. Most patients can resume daily activities soon after treatment initiation. Regular follow-up appointments with the office are crucial to evaluate progress and adjust treatments if needed.
Patients may notice improvements within weeks; however, experiencing the full benefits of hormone therapy can take longer. Ongoing communication about how one feels is crucial for optimal results and making any necessary changes to the treatment plan.
Results
Patients undergoing BHRT or traditional hormone therapy should anticipate noticeable results over time, emphasizing enhanced energy levels, emotional stability, improved libido, and alleviation of menopausal symptoms. It is essential to have realistic expectations, as individual experiences may vary.
Corresponding Procedures
As the nation’s leading anti-aging clinic, Dr. Asandra’s practice specializes in many aspects of rejuvenation. The hormonal fluctuations experienced during aging can manifest in many different ways, including changes in sexual health, hair loss, weight fluctuations, and more. Many men will explore sexual wellness treatments alongside their hormone therapy, especially if they are seeking treatment for erectile dysfunction. One of the most effective treatments we offer for both sexual wellness and hair loss is autologous conditioned plasma (ACP) injections. ACP is a specially formulated injection that takes particles from your blood, concentrates them into a specialized growth serum, and then injects this into your targeted treatment areas. This serum prompts surrounding cells to enter new and longer growth cycles, leading to increased cell production.
Cost of Hormone Therapies in Los Angeles and Orange County
The total cost of your hormone therapy will depend on several factors. The type of hormones you receive, your dosages, the methods used to administer medications, the length of your therapy period, the symptoms being treated, and various factors determined by your medical history will all play a role in your procedure pricing. You will receive an accurate price estimate during your consultation with Dr. Asandra. Many patients can receive insurance coverage for their treatment, especially if the symptoms they experience are severe.
Hormone therapy is an important treatment in improving your health and returning your body to optimal homeostasis. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Asandra today to explore your options. If you have further questions, please call either of our offices at (424) 213-1118 to gather the information you need.
FAQ
How long will I need to undergo hormone therapy?
The duration of treatment varies individually; some patients may require therapy for a few months, while others may opt for long-term management.
Are there any side effects associated with either BHRT or traditional hormone therapy?
While many patients tolerate these therapies well, some may experience side effects, which should be discussed thoroughly during the consultation.
Can I switch from BHRT to traditional hormone therapy (or vice versa)?
Yes, switching is possible, but it requires a comprehensive evaluation to ensure a safe transition.
What do I do if I do not see any improvement in my symptoms?
Regular check-ins with your provider will help reassess hormone levels and make adjustments as necessary.
Will insurance cover my hormone therapy?
Insurance coverage varies greatly. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider about specific coverage details for hormone therapies.
References
- Peacock K, Ketvertis KM. Menopause. NIH. Published December 21, 2023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507826/
- Sizar O, Schwartz J. Hypogonadism. PubMed. Published 2020. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532933/
- Harper-Harrison G, Shanahan MM. Hormone replacement therapy. National Library of Medicine. Published February 20, 2023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493191/
- Files JA, Ko MG, Pruthi S. Bioidentical Hormone Therapy. Mayo Clinic Proceedings. 2011;86(7):673-680. doi:https://doi.org/10.4065/mcp.2010.0714