Bioidentical hormones are identical in molecular structure to the hormones naturally produced in the human body. As we age, hormone levels can become imbalanced, leading to unpleasant symptoms. Replacing deficient hormones with bioidentical versions can effectively relieve symptoms and help people feel their best.
Imbalanced hormone levels often cause noticeable symptoms that negatively impact quality of life. Common symptoms include:
Estrogen deficiency symptoms in women may include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, anxious or depressed mood, fatigue, memory lapses, insomnia, bone loss, and heart palpitations.
Testosterone deficiency symptoms in men may consist of low energy and stamina, emotional changes like irritation or sadness, erectile dysfunction, decreased muscle mass, weight gain, difficulty concentrating, and insomnia.
Thyroid hormone deficiency can cause fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, hair loss, feeling cold, muscle weakness, constipation, impaired memory, depression, and heavy periods.
Replacing deficient hormones can provide remarkable benefits and relief of symptoms, including:
- Increased energy and stamina - Improved sleep - Healthier cholesterol levels - Decreased body fat - Stronger bones - Relief of menopausal symptoms
- Balanced mood - Reduced anxiety or sadness - Improved memory and concentration - Higher self-esteem
There are a few key things to understand about bioidentical hormone replacement therapy:
Bioidentical hormones are made from yam or soy plants and are engineered in a lab to be identical to human hormones. Synthetic hormones are chemically different than human hormones and may increase certain health risks.
Comprehensive hormone blood tests are needed to determine which hormones are deficient before starting treatment. This provides a customized, precision approach.
At Harmony Hormone Center, bioidentical hormones are compounded into creams or gels for topical administration. This allows for consistent absorption and balances hormone levels gently.
Follow up blood tests are necessary to ensure hormone levels are optimized for the individual. The dose can then be adjusted accordingly over time for ideal results.
Bioidentical hormones are not necessarily safer or more effective than synthetic hormones for menopausal symptoms. Their chemical structures are identical to endogenous hormones, but there is insufficient evidence that this results in better outcomes compared to conventional hormone therapy.
The physicians at Harmony Hormone Center in Lynbrook specialize in precision bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. We provide customized treatment plans to relieve symptoms and help both men and women feel their best.
What sets Harmony Hormone Center apart is our meticulous, scientific approach that is based on precision balancing of hormone levels for the individual. Benefits include:
Many people suffer from hormone imbalance for years before receiving an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment. Unfortunately, the symptoms are often chalked up to “normal aging,” stress, or other issues.
Getting timely, appropriate treatment can provide tremendous symptom relief and significantly improve one’s quality of life. Rebalanced hormones have even been shown to help slow aging and reduce disease risk when maintained at optimal levels.
Therefore, if you are experiencing any suspected hormone deficiency symptoms, it is important to get tested promptly rather than waiting. The skilled practitioners at Harmony Hormone Center can provide cutting edge testing and the latest bioidentical hormone therapies to help you regain your vitality.
Conveniently located on Long Island, Lynbrook offers an ideal setting to restore hormone balance and revitalize body and mind. During therapy, take advantage of Lynbrook’s scenic neighborhoods and parks, relaxing spas, and great restaurants and shops. The area also features excellent fitness centers, walking/hiking trails, and recreational facilities to compliment treatment.
Some local establishments to enjoy include: - North Woodmere Park: Beautiful pond-side loop trails perfect for walking, jogging or contemplation. - Bella Vita Spa: Pamper yourself with massage, facials, body treatments. - Barone’s: An elegant regional Italian restaurant serving homemade pastas and seafood.
The decline of reproductive hormones like estrogen and progesterone accelerates as women enter perimenopause and eventually stop menstruating (menopause).
The testes and ovaries produce fewer hormones over time. Blood flow and responsiveness also decline.
These “master glands” reduce signals to other glands like the thyroid and adrenals to make hormones.
Chronic stress, inadequate sleep, smoking, excess alcohol, being overweight and sedentary lifestyle negatively affect hormone production.
Long term use of certain prescription drugs can disrupt optimal hormonal balance.
Comprehensive blood and saliva hormone tests are necessary to determine exactly which hormones are deficient to develop the right treatment regimen.
At Harmony Hormone Center, initial testing may include:
Blood tests: Testosterone, estradiol, FSH, TSH, T3, T4, DHEA-S
Saliva tests: Cortisol and melatonin rhythms
Follow up tests are performed periodically to ensure hormones are optimally balanced within an ideal range for the individual. Adjustments to the therapies are made based on the results.
The process of starting bioidentical hormone replacement therapy involves:
Your healthcare provider will perform a complete medical history, physical examination and review of symptoms at the initial consultation. Any prior hormone tests will also be evaluated.
This essential information allows development of a fully customized treatment plan.
If testing shows hormone deficiencies, your practitioner will prescribe bioidentical hormones individually compounded at precise strengths and dosage forms based on your needs.
At Harmony Hormone Center, high quality topical gels or creams are extensively used for safe, effective absorption balancing multiple hormones.
The custom compounded hormone preparations are self-administered daily or cyclically based on what is prescribed. This offers maximum convenience.
Follow up blood and saliva testing at regular intervals enables fine-tuning your dosages so that your hormones are maintained at optimal levels. Symptom improvement is also evaluated and used for making dosage adjustments.
Close monitoring and precise customization makes bioidentical hormone therapy extremely safe and effective.
In addition to expert medical management of hormonal balance, making certain lifestyle changes can also greatly magnify the benefits gained:
Reduce Stress – Chronic stress taxes the adrenal glands and depletes crucial hormones. Schedule relaxing activities like yoga, massage, deep breathing, walking in nature. Consider stress management counseling. Practice mindfulness and gratitude.
Healthy Diet – Follow an anti-inflammatory diet high in produce, omega-3s from fish and nuts/seeds, whole grains. Limit sugars, processed foods and alcohol which are pro-inflammatory. Stay well hydrated.
Optimize Sleep Habits – Stick to consistent bedtimes allowing for 7-9 hours nightly, avoid electronic devices before bed, create an optimal sleep environment and unwind through prayer, meditation or soothing music. Consider melatonin supplementation if needed.
Regular Exercise – Engage in a mix of aerobic activity, strength training and flexibility training tailored to your abilities and health status to spur hormonal balance. Even light walking daily provides benefits.
Positive Social Interactions – Surround yourself with uplifting friends and family. Volunteer to support meaningful causes. Acts of service boost mood enhancing hormones like serotonin and dopamine naturally.
Following the medically supervised recommendations of your Harmony Hormone Center practitioner combined with certain lifestyle changes allows you to obtain all the benefits that balanced hormones offer – higher vitality, sharper mind, elevated mood, weight optimization, enhanced intimacy and passion for living your most fulfilling life.
