What are the Signs You Need Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Men and women alike experience a natural decline in their respective hormones as part of the aging process. For women, menopause is characterized by diminishing estrogen levels and cessation of menstrual periods, while a decline in testosterone supplies leads to andropause in men. In both cases, patients can develop a number of disruptive and discouraging symptoms, leaving them feeling like someone they hardly recognize.

At Fontaine MD Aesthetics and Anti-Aging Medicine in San Diego, CA, board-certified physician and anti-aging expert Dr. James D. Fontaine helps men and women feel like younger, healthier versions of themselves once again with bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT). Keep scrolling to find out what signs and symptoms may mean you could benefit from bioidentical hormone treatment.

Do I need hormone replacement therapy?

When hormone levels go beyond their normal physiologic ranges – whether due to age or another factor – many of our body’s natural processes are disrupted, leading to a host of unwanted symptoms and side effects. Perhaps the most common examples of hormone deficiency are menopause and andropause, which affect women and men – respectively – as they age. If you are experiencing the signs and symptoms of menopause or andropause listed below, you may be a candidate for bioidentical hormone replacement therapy.

Signs of menopause:

• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Mood swings
• Depression and anxiety
• Irritability
• Brain fog
• Weight gain
• Facial hair growth
• Bone loss (osteoporosis)
• Low libido
• Vaginal dryness
• Pain with intercourse

Signs of andropause (or “low T”):

• Depression
• Fatigue
• Low energy
• Difficulty sleeping
• Loss of muscle mass
• Weight gain
• Thinning hair or baldness
• Low libido
• Erectile dysfunction/sexual dysfunction

How does BHRT work?

Bioidentical hormones are formulated from soy, yams, and other plant-based sources. These hormones mimic the body’s natural hormones identically and are specially compounded to be absorbed efficiently by the body, helping patients to achieve rapid, consistent, and reliable relief from their symptoms. Following a full blood panel and hormone analysis, Dr. Fontaine will recommend the most appropriate BHRT dosage for you. To meet the unique needs and preferences of our patients, BHRT is available in multiple forms, including pills, patches, injections, and others.

Is BHRT the same as synthetic estrogen?

No. Many women are hesitant to pursue hormone replacement therapy due to the risks and side effects associated with synthetic estrogen and progesterone. It is important to understand that plant-based, bioidentical hormones are not the same as synthetic estrogen and progesterone. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is considered a safe and natural solution for menopause symptoms and does not carry the risks associated with synthetic estrogen replacement.

How soon does BHRT start working?

Some patients report symptom relief as soon as a few days after starting BHRT, though most people begin to notice significant and lasting improvement after about 3 – 6 weeks. With consistent treatment over time, the results of BHRT can keep patients feeling more youthful and energized for years to come.

Regain control of your life with BHRT in San Diego, CA

If menopause or andropause has taken a toll on the person you once were, we can help. Take the first step toward feeling like yourself once again by calling Fontaine MD Aesthetics and Anti-Aging Medicine to schedule your private consultation for bioidentical hormone replacement therapy with leading San Diego, CA, anti-aging expert and board-certified physician Dr. James D. Fontaine today.