BHRT – Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy in Lynchburg, Virginia
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) is a powerful tool in combating the effects of hormonal changes as we age. Both men and women can benefit from this proven therapy. Uncomfortable symptoms of menopause and andropause can be dramatically improved. Libido increases, energy returns, hot flashes, and night sweats disappear, sleep regulates, hair loss slows, and quality of life is enhanced. Not only is Wyndhurst Medical Aesthetics the leading and first provider of Bio-identical Hormone Replacement therapy in Lynchburg Virgina, but Dr. Petry was also one of the first 50 practitioners to be fully certified in Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy in the United States through WorldLink Medical.
How Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) Works
Between the ages of 40-55, men and women will experience symptoms of low or inadequate hormone levels. The good news is that Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy can be effective in reversing the effects of hormonal imbalance, decreasing symptoms significantly.
Unlike synthetic hormone replacement therapy, BHRT uses hormones that are biologically identical to the hormones in our bodies. Derived from natural plant sources such as soy and yams, bio-identical hormones can be more easily assimilated by the body without the side effects commonly associated with synthetics.
BHRT is customized to the individual based on a simple laboratory test to identify hormonal imbalances. The bio-identical hormones are then prescribed and compounded by a specialty pharmacy that is trained in BHRT. Your doctor will prescribe a compound to address imbalances in hormone levels such as estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, thyroid, and Vitamin D. Leveling your hormones can also have a profound impact on your weight loss efforts, improving results drastically.
To ensure optimal results, your provider will monitor and retest your levels in 6-10 weeks. Once your levels and symptoms have been optimized, you will be seen by your provider annually. By continually monitoring your hormone levels and symptoms, we can adjust your prescription to your individual needs as your body adjusts and recuperates.
Signs of Low Hormone Levels:
The following symptoms may be a sign of low hormone levels:
- Loss of libido
- Erectile dysfunction
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Memory Loss
- Emotional changes
- Muscle wasting or loss of strength
- Swollen or tender breasts (gynecomastia)
- Hair loss
- Difficulty sleeping/change in sleep patterns
- Irritability
- Hot flashes
- Vaginal Dryness
- Night Sweats
As part of our BioIdentical Hormone Replacement Therapy services, we help improve your quality of life by correcting hormonal imbalances. Your prescriptions will be customized to your individual needs, and hormone levels are checked routinely to ensure you are always receiving the right dosage for your needs. Over time, your hormones should begin to regulate hormone production as your body recuperates.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are 35 years or older and experiencing symptoms of low hormone levels, contact us to set up an initial consultation and find out if Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy is right for you.
FAQs
What is the difference between bioidentical and synthetic hormones?
While both bioidentical and synthetic hormones are created in the lab, how they are used and how they work with the body have significant differences. Bioidentical hormones are 100% naturally derived, from plants such as soy and yams. Additionally, Bioidentical hormones can be adjusted for the individual more precisely. Synthetic hormones are patented by pharmaceutical companies and are only sold in specific strengths. Because bioidentical hormones are not patented, your doctor can adjust how your medication is compounded more acutely. Your specific dosage is truly yours, based on your hormone-balancing needs.
Another advantage of bioidentical hormones is that they are created to be structurally the same as human endogenous hormones. This leads to fewer side effects and improved effectiveness. Bioidentical hormones work in harmony with your body.
Do I need a prescription for bioidentical hormones?
Yes. Your prescription is compounded specifically for your hormone-balancing needs. Throughout the course of your treatment, we will routinely check your hormone levels and adjust your medication as your own hormone production stabilizes.
Can both men and women benefit from bioidentical hormone replacement therapy?
Absolutely! Both men and women can experience unpleasant side effects from hormone imbalances and can benefit from BHRT to alleviate those symptoms. Testosterone, progesterone, and estrogen are present in both men and women and as we age optimal levels decline. Men and women may experience slightly different side effects from hormonal imbalance, but both sexes can experience a greatly improved quality of life with BHRT.
Do you have to be a certain age to begin BHRT?
Not necessarily. While most women and men will experience fluctuation in hormone levels past the age of 40, some will begin andropause and perimenopause much earlier. Furthermore, by establishing a baseline of your hormone levels in your 20s and 30s, you can more proactively treat changes in your hormone levels.
