Hormones play a critical role in regulating many of the body's functions including metabolism, growth and development, sexual function, reproduction, mood, and more. When hormone levels decline or become imbalanced, it can lead to undesirable symptoms and health issues. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can help restore optimal hormone balance safely and effectively.
Maintaining healthy hormone levels is especially important for women approaching and undergoing menopause. Fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels during this transition bring unpleasant symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, unstable moods, trouble sleeping, and lack of energy. Furthermore, declining estrogen after menopause puts women at increased risk for heart disease and osteoporosis.
Men also experience age-related hormone changes like decreasing testosterone levels leading to low energy, reduced muscle mass and strength, weight gain, poor concentration, and erectile dysfunction.
Balancing hormones can provide significant symptom relief and promote better health as we age. Read on to learn more about bioidentical hormone therapy.
“Bioidentical” refers to man-made hormones that are structurally identical to those made naturally in the human body. Some of the most commonly prescribed bioidentical hormones include:
Estrogen
Progesterone
Testosterone
Compounded bioidentical hormones are created by pharmacists to match the exact chemical structure of human hormones. This allows cells in the body to readily recognize and utilize bioidentical hormones.
Bioidentical hormones offer advantages over traditional non-bioidentical (synthetic) hormones:
Hormone Health Institute specializes in bioidentical hormones to give patients the best possible treatment. Our knowledgeable practitioners carefully evaluate hormones levels and symptoms to create customized plans meeting each individual’s needs.
The first step in pursuing hormone replacement therapy is diagnosing any imbalances through bloodwork, physical exams, and assessing symptoms. Our clinic relies on advanced testing to paint a complete picture before developing treatment plans.
We evaluate levels of key hormones like estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, and cortisol. Thyroid hormones T3 and T4 are also examined since they interact significantly with other hormones. Testing may reveal deficiencies reducing quality of life and health.
Diagnosis also considers family history along with risk factors like:
Careful diagnosis guides precise, effective treatment.
Once testing indicates hormone imbalances, we can prescribe customized regimes to restore optimal levels.
Declining estrogen and progesterone contributes to unpleasant menopausal symptoms and increased health risks for aging women. To counteract this, we offer:
These bioidentical hormones come in oral tablets, transdermal creams, vaginal inserts, pellets, and injectable preparations. Our practitioners determine which delivery method best fits each woman’s needs for convenience and tolerability.
Estrogen and progesterone work synergistically in the body. Combination therapy with both hormones balanced is ideal for most women.
Testosterone plays key roles in libido, energy, muscle tone, fat distribution, memory, and mood in both sexes. Like estrogen and progesterone, testosterone levels decline naturally with age leading to low testosterone (low T) symptoms like:
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) under medical supervision can successfully treat these concerns. Hormone Health Institute offers bioidentical testosterone in different forms:
Our staff helps male and female patients understand options to decide their optimal testosterone preparation.
In addition to estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, we offer bioidentical DHEA and cortisol tailored to correct imbalances uncovered during diagnosis.
Thyroid hormone testing and treatment is also provided. Since thyroid function interconnects with reproductive hormones, balancing both optimizes overall wellness.
Our practitioners can prescribe natural desiccated thyroid hormones or synthetic levothyroxine if indicated.
After beginning hormone therapy, patients follow up regularly with our staff to evaluate progress and adjust dosages accordingly for maximum benefits. We utilize blood tests and symptom reviews to ensure treatments remain optimized over the long term.
We partner with patients to make personalized care seamless and effective.
Bioidentical hormones are not necessarily safer or more effective than synthetic hormones for treating menopause symptoms. Although marketed as "natural," the bioidentical hormones are chemically processed from plant compounds in a lab to create hormones identical to those naturally occurring in the body. Their long-term risks and benefits compared to conventional hormones remain uncertain.
Seeking timely bioidentical hormone balancing brings the best relief of symptoms that disrupt wellbeing and quality of life. Early treatment may also help prevent future health complications related to long term hormone deficiency.
Menopausal women with prolonged estrogen loss face steadily increasing risks of:
Meanwhile andropausal men with ongoing testosterone deficiency may experience:
We encourage patients not to delay if they are experiencing hormone-related concerns. Rebalancing key hormones restores patients to feeling their best while protecting long term health.
When pursuing bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, choosing the right provider is key. Hormone Health Institute offers exceptional care with these advantages:
Our clinic focuses specifically on optimizing hormone balance. We have extensively studied factors influencing hormones and outcomes of replacement therapies.
Our practitioners all undergo rigorous training and certification in age management medicine with emphasis on effectively prescribing bioidentical hormones.
We utilize advanced blood testing which analyzes hormone metabolites to provide the most accurate measurement of hormone levels and body utilization. This sensitive assessment allows creating truly customized treatment plans.
Hormone Health Institute partners with specialized compounding pharmacies providing pharmaceutical grade ingredients to formulate bioidentical hormones. Our treatments follow best practice preparation guidelines ensuring purity, potency, and consistency.
Our Cranford office offers high quality care in a comfortable setting right in your community. We simplify testing, treatment, and monitoring so patients can achieve natural hormone balance with minimal disruption to regular routines.
When properly prescribed and monitored, bioidentical hormones are very safe with minimal risks. Because bioidentical hormones match natural human hormones, cells recognize and utilize them more efficiently with fewer side effects compared to synthetic versions.
Coverage varies between insurance providers. Hormone Health Institute staff can verify individual benefits and work with patients and prescribers to follow necessary procedures for obtaining coverage when possible. We offer competitive pricing for patients paying out of pocket.
Most patients notice some improvements within a few weeks but maximum benefits accrue over 3-6 months as optimal levels become sustained. Our staff works closely with patients to ensure dosage is titrated appropriately to reach therapeutic goals.
There are minor risks mainly from improper dosing leading to levels that are too high. When hormones are correctly balanced, studies demonstrate treatment is quite safe especially when started early within 10 years of menopause or andropause onset.We monitor patients closely to avoid under and over treatment.
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy effectively corrects hormone imbalances. Patients can enhance their treatment by also attending to lifestyle factors influencing wellness. We offer these recommendations:
Following a balanced, nutrient-rich diet gives the body resources needed for best hormone response and overall vitality. Emphasize vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthy fats and lean protein. Limit sugar and processed foods.
Regular activity stimulates hormone receptors so they utilize treatments more efficiently. Aim for 30-60 minutes per day of cardio, strength training and flexibility exercise. Check with your provider before significantly intensifying exercise habits.
Chronic stress elevates cortisol which can interfere with thyroid hormones and reproductive hormones. Make time for relaxing activities like walking outside, reading, meditating, or enjoying hobbies. Get good sleep nightly.
Stay current on general preventative health exams, cancer screenings, bone density tests and other guidelines for your age and risk factors. Comprehensive care complements hormone treatment in protecting wellness.
Helpful Local Resources
Alongside hormone replacement therapy, we encourage patients to know about these useful local resources to support your overall wellness:
Cranford Imaging offers blood draws and tests ordered by our practitioners or your other physicians. Their office is located just around the corner for convenient diagnostic visits.
Union County Cardiology has advanced imaging technology to screen cardiovascular health along with EKG, echocardiogram, stress testing, and more.
Bella Vita Spa in nearby Garwood provides therapeutic massage, facials, hair and nail services helping you relax and look your best during hormone transition periods.
The new Cranford Wellness Collective offers yoga, sound baths, nutrition plans and mental health counseling - all ways reduce stress and nourish wellbeing.
Union County CrossFit provides expert coaching for all fitness levels. Their workouts build strength helping prevent osteoporosis.
Orange Theory Fitness offers high energy cardio and strength training classes with heart rate monitoring so you can reach target zones efficiently.
Peak Personal Fitness develops customized plans - virtual or in person - with sensible strategies reaching your unique goals.
Nature’s Plate cafe serves nourishing breakfast and lunches emphasizing vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free options conducive for hormonal balance. Their smoothies are amazing!
For heartier dining, Piccola Cucina offers scrumptious Italian fare focused on anti-inflammatory ingredients benefitting hormone receptors. Their whole wheat pasta topped with fresh seafood or vegetables makes a satisfying anytime meal.
We hope these local wellness resources help support you on your hormone balancing journey. Please reach out to our helpful Cranford Hormone Health Institute staff anytime with questions!
