Hormone Replacement Therapy | Hormone Replacement Therapy New Braunfels, San Antonio, Waco & Boerne

26/Aug/2022

Dementia affects millions of people all over the world, and the numbers continue to grow as the population ages. While there is no cure for dementia, there are treatments that can help slow down its progression.

One such treatment is hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which involves taking estrogen and/or progesterone after menopause.

In this blog post, we will look at the effects of estrogen and progesterone on dementia.

I am a woman over the age of 65, should I take Estrogen?

The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, and research has shown that estrogen can help to protect the brain against Alzheimer’s. One study found that women who took estrogen after menopause were less likely to develop Alzheimer’s than those who did not take estrogen.

However, it is important to note that this protective effect was only seen in women who took estrogen before they turned 65. For women who started taking estrogen after age 65, there was no protective effect against Alzheimer’s.

There are a few possible explanations for this. First, it is possible that the brain is more susceptible to damage from Alzheimer’s disease after menopause when levels of estrogen start to decline.

Second, it is also possible that the protective effect of estrogen wears off after a certain number of years.

Finally, it is also possible that taking estrogen after age 65 has no effect on Alzheimer’s disease, and the difference in risk between women who took estrogen before and after age 65 is due to chance.

Estrogen can help women with hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness, which are common symptoms of menopause.

Estrogen can also help to improve mood and cognitive function. Most women feel that the quality of life that HRT gives them outweighs any additional chance of developing dementia. Remember, you should always talk to your doctor before starting any treatment.

What effect does progesterone have on Alzheimer’s?

Progesterone is another hormone that has been studied for its potential to protect the brain against Alzheimer’s disease.

However, the results of these studies have been mixed. Some studies have found that women who take progesterone are less likely to develop Alzheimer’s, while other studies have found no effect.

It is possible that the conflicting results of these studies are due to the fact that progesterone levels decline with age, and so it may only be effective in protecting the brain if it is taken at a young age. It is also possible that the conflicting results are due to chance.

Progesterone replacement can help women moderate mood swings, deal with stress, and improve sleep quality. So most women find it very beneficial during menopause and even during peri-menopause.

Do I have a higher risk of developing dementia if I am on HRT?

The answer to this question is not clear. Some studies have found that women on HRT are at a higher risk of developing dementia, while other studies have found no effect. The conflicting results of these studies may be due to chance.

It is also important to note that the risk of developing dementia increases with age and family history regardless of whether or not a woman is on HRT.

Most women feel that the benefit to their quality of life (by reducing hot flashes and night sweats and increasing libido) is enough to negate the possibility of an increased risk of dementia. It is also important to note that many studies are not done with bio-identical hormones, and instead use synthetic hormones.

Remember that before starting any treatment you need to discuss it with your medical provider.

We are happy to test your hormone levels at Hormones by Design. Our newest location in New Braunfels, TX is accepting new patients. Call us at 830-627-7979 today!

Jeanette Maxey

08/Jul/2022

If you are a woman who is going through menopause, you may be wondering if high blood pressure (hypertension) is a common problem for women during this time. You are not alone in wondering about this!

In fact, many women experience high blood pressure during menopause.

This can be due to a number of factors, including the decrease in estrogen levels and changes in lifestyle habits. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of high blood pressure during menopause as well as prevention and treatment strategies.

What is a “normal” blood pressure?

The American Heart Association (AHA) defines normal blood pressure for adults as a systolic (top number) reading of less than 120 mm Hg and a diastolic (bottom number) reading of less than 80 mm Hg.

If your readings are consistently at or above these levels, you need to speak with your Family Doctor or Cardiologist about high blood pressure.

Does menopause cause high blood pressure?

It is important to first understand that high blood pressure is not caused by menopause itself. Menopause is a natural process that all women go through as they age. However, there are certain factors that can contribute to high blood pressure during menopause.

These include:

-Decreased estrogen levels: Estrogen plays a role in regulating blood pressure by dilating the blood vessels and allowing blood to flow more easily. As estrogen levels decline during menopause, this can lead to an increase in blood pressure.

-Changes in lifestyle habits: Menopause is often accompanied by changes in lifestyle habits, such as increased stress levels, weight gain, and reduced physical activity. These factors can all contribute to an increase in blood pressure.

-Genetic factors: High blood pressure can be hereditary, so if your family has a history of hypertension, you may be more likely to experience it during menopause.

Can women develop high blood pressure before menopause?

Definitely. It is possible for women to develop high blood pressure before menopause. This is often due to the same factors that can contribute to high blood pressure during menopause, such as decreased estrogen levels, changes in lifestyle habits, and genetic factors.

If you are concerned about developing high blood pressure, it is important to speak with your Family Doctor and get a yearly full-body physical that includes a blood pressure check and bloodwork.

Strategies for prevention and treatment of high blood pressure

Now that we have a better understanding of the causes of high blood pressure during menopause, let’s discuss some strategies for prevention and treatment.

-Lifestyle changes: One of the best things you can do to prevent or treat high blood pressure is to make healthy lifestyle changes. This includes eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and managing stress levels.

Even a simple routine of walking 30 minutes a day can help lower blood pressure.
Making sure that you get good quality sleep (and enough sleep) are also key to managing stress levels that drive blood pressure higher.
Also, weight loss of as little as five to ten pounds can also help lower blood pressure.

-Supplements: There are also several supplements that can help to lower blood pressure, such as magnesium and omega-three fatty acids. Again, be sure to speak with your doctor before taking any supplements.

-Blood pressure medication: If lifestyle changes and supplements are not enough to control your blood pressure, your Family Doctor or Cardiologist may prescribe medication.

Can I take Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) during menopause if I have high blood pressure?

Yes, you can take BHRT during menopause if you have high blood pressure. However, it is important to speak with your doctor first and make sure that this is the right treatment for you. Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy can help to regulate estrogen levels and reduce some of the symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and night sweats.

However, it is important to remember that BHRT is not a cure for high blood pressure. It is simply a treatment option that can help to alleviate some of the symptoms of menopause. If you are interested in taking BHRT, be sure to speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits.

In Conclusion

High blood pressure is a common problem during menopause, but it is important to remember that there are treatments available. If you are concerned about high blood pressure, be sure to speak with your Family Doctor or Cardiologist and get a yearly physical.

Making lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly, can help to prevent or treat high blood pressure.

Note: This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

Our newest location in Austin is accepting new patients, along with the Boerne and San Antonio locations. Call 830-627-7979 to schedule.

Jeanette Maxey

26/May/2022

If you’re concerned about early menopause, you’re not alone. Many women are wondering what the symptoms of early menopause are.

The average age of menopause in the United States is 51, but it can happen as early as your 30s or 40s.

In this blog post, we will discuss the signs and symptoms of perimenopause and early menopause so that you can be better prepared. We’ll also offer some tips on how to cope with these changes!

early menopause

What are the symptoms of menopause?

The most common symptom of menopause is a change in your period.

You may have irregular periods, lighter periods, or no period at all. Other symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood swings, loss of sex drive, and weight gain.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your doctor so that they can rule out other potential causes.

What are the symptoms of perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the transition period before menopause.

The average age of onset is 47, but it can start in your 30s or 40s. Symptoms of perimenopause include changes in your period (irregular, lighter, or heavier), hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood swings, loss of sex drive, and weight gain.

Again, if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your doctor.

What can I do to get through perimenopause and menopause without being miserable?

There are a few things you can do to ease the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause.

First, try to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating healthy foods and exercising regularly. This will help your body cope with the hormonal changes.

Second, consider talking to your doctor about bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT). BHRT can help alleviate some of the symptoms of menopause.

Finally, try to find a support system whether it’s friends, family, or a support group for women going through menopause.

Can BHRT help with menopause?

Yes, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can help alleviate some of the symptoms of menopause.

BHRT is a treatment that replaces the hormones your body is no longer producing. Bioidentical means that the hormones are identical to the ones your body made when you were younger. BHRT can be taken in the form of injections, rapid dissolving tablets (RDTs), pills, patches, or creams.

If you’re interested in BHRT, talk to your doctor to see if it’s right for you.

If you’re experiencing any changes in your body that are concerning you, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor. They can help you determine if it’s menopause or something else. And remember, you’re not alone! There are many resources and treatments available to help you through this time in your life.

Hormones by Design is here to help you with any concerns you may have related to your hormones, thyroid, or weight loss. Give our location in New Braunfels a call at 830-627-7979 to get your hormones tested and get back to feeling great again!

Jeanette Maxey

16/May/2022

It’s no secret that hormones play a major role in our moods and emotions. This is especially true for women, as many female hormones regulate mood and feelings. As we approach menopause, many women experience a variety of symptoms that are often classified as depression.

However, before automatically prescribing antidepressants to these women, it’s important to look at all the possible causes of their symptoms. In some cases, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy can be the answer.

Menopausal Symptoms

Women in perimenopause and menopause can experience hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, lack of sex drive and so many more symptoms that disrupt your life.

You feel like you have lost your vitality and don’t feel like yourself. It can be hard to cope with the changes. It’s no wonder that so many women end up feeling depressed during this time.

Estrogen, Progesterone, and Testosterone all Play a Role

Estradiol regulates mood and emotion by affecting the brain’s serotonin levels. As we age and approach menopause, our estradiol levels decline, which can lead to feelings of depression. Progesterone also plays a role in regulating mood and emotions. In addition, it has a calming effect on the brain and can help with anxiety and insomnia.

Testosterone is another hormone that can affect mood, although it’s often thought of as a “male” hormone. However, women also produce small amounts of testosterone, and this hormone can play a role in energy levels, sex drive, and a feeling of well-being.

When any of these hormones are out of balance, it can lead to feelings of apathy or even depression.

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Can Help

middle aged woman feeling happy

The first step to determining if you are feeling down/depressed due to declining hormone levels is testing your hormone levels. This can be done with a simple blood test.

If your hormone levels are low, you may be a candidate for bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT). BHRT is an individualized treatment that uses hormones that are identical to the ones your body naturally produces.

These hormones can help to restore balance and alleviate many of the symptoms associated with perimenopause and menopause, including feelings of apathy or depression.

Antidepressants Also Play a Role

Antidepressants can still be necessary for some women. If you and your doctor have determined that your feelings of depression are not solely due to declining hormone levels, then antidepressants may be the best course of action.

What is the MOST IMPORTANT item to remember? Talk to your doctor. If you feel like you are experiencing depression or anxiety, don’t wait. Make an appointment with your doctor to discuss your symptoms and possible treatment options.

This is the best way to determine if BHRT, antidepressants, or a combination of both is right for you.

We here at Hormones by Design understand what a huge toll all this takes on your marriage, your family, and even your work.

We can help you by testing your hormone levels and helping you get back in balance. We want you to have clear thinking, good sleep, no hot flashes or night sweats, and the desire to be intimate with your significant other.

We understand how important it is to feel like yourself again. Give us a call today and let’s get started on getting your life back on track.

Our newest location in New Braunfels, Texas is accepting new patients. Call 830-627-7979 to schedule today!

Jeanette Maxey

28/Apr/2022

Do you sometimes have trouble sleeping? Are you finding it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep at night? If so, you’re not alone.

Millions of women deal with insomnia every year. And while there are many potential causes, one of the most common is menopause.

In this blog post, we will discuss the relationship between menopause and insomnia and look at some of the possible treatments.

What is menopause and what are the symptoms

Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years.

It typically occurs around the age of 51, but menopause can occur earlier or later depending on individual health and hormonal factors.

Menopause is caused by a decline in the production of estrogen and other reproductive hormones.

This decline leads to changes in a woman’s menstrual cycle and eventually to the cessation of menstruation.

Symptoms of menopause can vary from woman to woman, but they are often characterized by hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.

While menopause is a natural part of aging, the symptoms can be disruptive and even debilitating for some women.

Fortunately, there are treatments available that can help manage menopausal symptoms and minimize their impact on quality of life.

What causes insomnia during menopause?

Menopause is a time of great change for women. Not only are there changes in hormone levels, but also changes in sleeping patterns.

Many women find that they have difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep during menopause. There are several possible causes of insomnia during menopause.

First, the hormonal changes that occur during menopause can disrupt the body’s natural sleep cycle.

Second, menopause can cause hot flashes and night sweats, which can make it difficult to sleep.

Finally, stress and anxiety can also contribute to insomnia during menopause.

How to treat insomnia during menopause

While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for menopause-related insomnia, there are a few treatments that can help. Here are five of the best treatments for menopause-related insomnia:

Hormone therapy: For women who are experiencing menopause symptoms due to a decrease in hormone levels, hormone therapy can be an effective treatment. This can be done through a pill, patch, or cream that replaces the hormones that are no longer being produced by the body. We only recommend bio-identical hormones.
Sleep aids: Over-the-counter sleep aids can be helpful for menopausal women who occasionally have trouble sleeping. These include melatonin, valerian root, CBD and more. Remember to always talk to your doctor before starting any supplement as it can interact with other medications.
Relaxation techniques: Relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help to ease menopause symptoms and promote better sleep.
Exercise: Exercise can help to improve sleep quality by reducing stress and anxiety. It is important to avoid exercising too close to bedtime, however, as this can make it difficult to fall asleep.
Dietary changes: Making dietary changes such as avoiding caffeine and eating a light evening dinner can also help menopausal women get a better night’s sleep.

FAQ’s

Does menopausal insomnia go away?

As any woman who has gone through menopause knows, the hot flashes and night sweats can be difficult to deal with. But menopausal insomnia can be even more disruptive, causing sleepless nights and fatigue during the day.

The good news is that menopausal insomnia is often temporary, and there are a number of things that women can do to help themselves get some relief, which has been discussed earlier in the blog post.

Can menopause cause severe insomnia?

There is some evidence that menopause can disrupt the body’s circadian rhythms, making it more difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. While more research is needed to confirm these connections, it’s clear that menopause can potentially cause severe insomnia. If you are suffering from insomnia, talk to your doctor about it.

How can I increase my sleeping hormones?

There are a few things you can do to help increase your sleeping hormones. One, as mentioned earlier, is to avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed, as both can interfere with sleep. Another is to establish a regular sleep schedule and stick to it as much as possible.

Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day helps to regulate your body’s natural sleep cycle. Finally, make sure your bedroom is dark and quiet, and that the temperature is comfortable. Creating an environment that is conducive to sleep can help your body to produce the hormones needed for a good night’s rest.

Conclusion

Menopause can be a difficult time for many women, both physically and emotionally. One of the most common complaints during menopause is insomnia, which can be caused by a number of factors.

Fortunately, there are a number of treatments that can help to ease menopausal symptoms and promote better sleep. If you’re struggling with menopausal insomnia, talk to your doctor about the best treatment options for you.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us. We would be more than happy to help! Our newest location in New Braunfels, TX is accepting new patients. Call us at 830-627-7979.

Jeanette Maxey

12/Apr/2022

According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, 54 million Americans are at risk of developing osteoporosis.

This number is only going to increase as the population ages. One of the biggest risk factors for osteoporosis is menopause.
During this time in a woman’s life, her body undergoes many changes that can lead to a decline in bone health.

Thankfully, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing osteoporosis. In this blog post, we will discuss how bioidentical hormones can help keep your bones healthy during menopause!

First of all, what is bone density and how is it measured?

Bone density is a measure of how much calcium and other minerals are in your bones.

It is usually measured using a test called dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA).

This test can be done on any part of the body, but it is most often done on the hip and spine. The results of the DXA test are used to diagnose osteoporosis, osteopenia (low bone density), and other conditions.

What exactly are osteopenia and osteoporosis?

Osteopenia is a condition in which bone density is lower than normal but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis, on the other hand, is a condition in which bone density is so low that bones are more likely to break. Both of these conditions are serious and can lead to additional health problems.

What are the risk factors for osteoporosis?

There are many risk factors for osteoporosis, but the most common ones are aging, being female, having a small body frame, and having a family history of osteoporosis.

Other risk factors include smoking, drinking too much alcohol, not getting enough calcium or vitamin D, and being physically inactive.

What happens during menopause?

As we age, our bodies produce less and less estrogen. This decline in estrogen can lead to changes in our bodies, one of which is a decrease in bone density.

Estrogen helps to keep our bones healthy and strong, so when levels start to decline, it’s not surprising that our risk of developing osteoporosis increases.

How can bioidentical hormones help reduce the risk of osteoporosis?

Bioidentical hormones are hormones that are structurally identical to the hormones our bodies produce. They can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including menopause symptoms.

One of the most common ways bioidentical hormones are used is in the form of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). HRT can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis by replenishing the hormones that our bodies lose during menopause.

Estrogen in particular is important for bone health, and as women approach and go through menopause, their estrogen levels drop.

Studies have shown that HRT can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis and osteopenia in postmenopausal women by increasing estrogen levels.

What are the symptoms of osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis can cause a number of different symptoms, including back pain, loss of height, and fractures.

Fractures are one of the most serious complications of osteoporosis and can occur in any bone, but they are most common in the hip, spine, and wrist. If you have osteoporosis, it is important to talk to your doctor about ways to prevent fractures.

What if I do everything recommended and still suffer from osteoporosis? What do I do then?

There are medical treatments, such as bisphosphonates, that can help treat osteoporosis. However, these treatments are not right for everyone and have several side effects. If you have osteoporosis, it is important to talk to your doctor about all your treatment options.

In conclusion, osteoporosis is a serious condition that can lead to many health problems. Menopause is one of the biggest risk factors for osteoporosis, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk.

One of the most effective ways to reduce your risk of osteoporosis is by using bioidentical hormones in the form of hormone replacement therapy. If you are pre or postmenopausal, talk to your doctor about whether HRT is right for you. Worried about osteoporosis?

Call our New Braunfels office today to schedule your appointment, 830-627-7979. We can help you determine your current bone density and how to help you avoid having a diagnosis of osteoporosis!

Jeanette Maxey

06/Apr/2022

If you’re like many women, you’ve probably been struggling to lose weight for years.

You may have tried every diet and exercise program out there, but nothing seems to work.

Have you ever considered hormone replacement therapy? Hormone replacement therapy can help you lose weight in a number of ways, including reducing your appetite and increasing your metabolism.

In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of hormone replacement therapy for weight loss and how it can help you finally achieve your goal weight!

Hormone replacement therapy can help reduce your appetite

If you’re always feeling hungry, it can be difficult to stick to a healthy diet.

hrt helping with appetite

Hormone replacement therapy can help reduce your appetite, so you’ll be less likely to overeat.

Estrogen in particular can work on the portion of the brain that is responsible for appetite, and can decrease hunger…therefore leading to a reduced calorie intake.

Reducing your calorie intake is one of the most effective ways to lose weight. And with a reduced appetite, you’ll be able to do just that.

A reduction in appetite can also help you avoid unhealthy snacks and junk food cravings. And we all know what happens when we give in to those cravings…

Hormone replacement therapy can help increase your metabolism

A slow metabolism can make it difficult to lose weight. Hormone replacement therapy can help increase your metabolism, which will help you burn more calories and lose weight.

Some research has shown that adding estrogen hormone therapy can help the body to process starches and sugars more efficiently instead of storing them as fat.

An increased metabolism can also help you maintain your weight loss in the long term.

When your metabolism is working properly, your body will be better able to burn calories and keep off excess weight.

HRT can also help boost metabolism by regulating the production of thyroid hormones.

Thyroid hormones are responsible for regulating your metabolism.

If your thyroid hormone levels are imbalanced, it can lead to a slow metabolism.

Hormone replacement therapy can help balance your thyroid hormone levels and increase your metabolism.

As an added bonus, an increased metabolism can also give you more energy!

You’ll feel more energetic and motivated to stick to your weight loss goals.

If you have an underactive thyroid, you may find it difficult to lose weight even if you eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly.

Hormone replacement therapy can help get your thyroid back on track, so you can finally start seeing results.

Hormone replacement therapy can help you burn more calories

Exercise is one of the most effective ways to lose weight.

But sometimes, no matter how hard you try, you just can’t seem to get rid of those stubborn pounds.

Hormone replacement therapy can help by replacing estrogen levels that drop during menopause. Estrogen can help increase metabolic rate in women and therefore can increase the number of calories you burn during exercise.

In one study, women who underwent HRT burned more calories during exercise than women who did not receive HRT.

This means that HRT can help you lose weight even if you don’t make any changes to your diet or exercise routine.

Plus, burning more calories during exercise can help you tone your body and build muscle. And we all know that muscle burns more calories than fat, so this is a great way to boost your metabolism even further.

If you’re looking for an extra edge in your weight loss journey, hormone replacement therapy may be just what you need.

hormone replacement therapy for weight loss

Hormone replacement therapy can help you lose weight in a healthy way

Losing weight quickly can be unhealthy. And often, the weight that is lost quickly is gained back just as quickly.

Hormone replacement therapy can help you lose weight in a healthy way by reducing your appetite and increasing your metabolism.

With HRT, you’ll be able to lose weight slowly and steadily. And because the weight loss is coming from a reduction in calorie intake, it is more likely to be permanent.

Losing weight in a healthy way can also help reduce your risk of developing obesity-related health problems, such as heart disease, type II diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

Hormone replacement therapy can help improve your overall health

Not only can hormone replacement therapy help you lose weight, but it can also improve your overall health.

Some studies have shown that HRT can reduce the risk of osteoporosis, heart disease, and type II diabetes. It can also help relieve symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.

Receiving hormone replacement therapy can help you feel better both physically and mentally.

If you’re struggling to lose weight, HRT may be the answer you’ve been looking for.

Please don’t hesitate to call our New Braunfels location at (830) 627-7979 if you have any queries. We would be delighted to assist you!

Jeanette Maxey

18/Mar/2022

What is a hysterectomy or oophorectomy?

A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus, and an oophorectomy is the surgical removal of the ovaries. Hysterectomies and oophorectomies can be performed together or separately.

Why do you get a hysterectomy or oophorectomy?

There are many reasons why a hysterectomy or oophorectomy may be recommended.

Some common reasons include:

Endometriosis
Uterine fibroids
Chronic pelvic pain
Cancer of the uterus, ovaries, or cervix
Severe bleeding during menses

What are the consequences of a hysterectomy and/or oophorectomy?

The loss of the ovaries can cause a woman to experience a sudden and drastic decrease in estrogen levels (also called surgical menopause).

This can lead to numerous health problems, including osteoporosis, heart disease, and cognitive decline. Symptoms of low estrogen include:

Hot flashes
Vaginal dryness
Mood swings
Sleep problems
Foggy thinking
any many more

What are my estrogen replacement options/alternatives?

Fortunately, there are several ways to increase estrogen levels naturally. One option is bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), which involves taking estrogen injections, pills, patches, or creams.

In fact, most patients need estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone to feel their best after a hysterectomy or oophorectomy.

Natural vs. Synthetic Estrogens

There are two main types of estrogen therapy: synthetic and natural:

Synthetic estrogens are made in a laboratory and are not identical to the hormones produced by the body.

Natural estrogens, on the other hand, are derived from plant sources and are chemically identical to the hormones produced by the body. This is often termed “bio-identical.” The most common form of estrogen used for HRT is Estradiol.

woman speaking with nurse

How long should you take estrogen after a hysterectomy?

This is a question that should be discussed with your doctor. Typically, patients will take estrogen therapy for the rest of their lives. However, some women may only need to take it for a few years.

If you are considering a hysterectomy or oophorectomy, it is important to talk to your medical provider about hormone replacement before the procedure. Here at Hormones by Design, we specialize in BHRT.

We can help you with determining your estrogen levels and help you make a plan for the best method to replace all your needed hormones.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call our new New Braunfels location at (830) 627-7979. We would be happy to help!

Jeanette Maxey

10/Feb/2022

Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) using pellets has become a popular treatment for hormone imbalance.

The pellets are implanted under the skin and release hormones into the bloodstream gradually over time. They provide a steady stream of hormones that can help to restore balance and improve symptoms.

But what happens if you decide you want to stop taking pellets? Can they be removed once they have been implanted?

How long have hormone pellets been in use?

Hormone pellets have been used as a medical treatment since 1939. They were originally developed as a way to treat hypothyroidism and are still used for this purpose today. In the 1960s, researchers began using pellets to treat menopausal symptoms such as mood swings and hot flashes caused by hormonal imbalance in women.

Since then, research into the use of pellets for bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) has increased and they have become a popular treatment option.

How do BHRT pellets work?

Pellets are small cylinders (about the size of a grain of rice) that contain hormones in a solid form. They are made from estrogen or testosterone and can be used to treat both men and women.

In men, pellets can be used for testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), while in women estrogen or testosterone pellets are typically used to treat symptoms of hormonal imbalance.

How are BHRT pellets implanted?

The BHRT pellets are implanted under the skin in a surgical procedure (a small incision) that takes just a few minutes. The pellets are typically placed into the fat tissue of your hip or upper buttocks.

What are the risks involved in this procedure?

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with implanting BHRT pellets. These include infection, bleeding, scarring, and damage to the surrounding tissue. If the implantation site becomes infected, the pellets may be expelled with the infection.

You should not take a bath, get in a hot tub, or go swimming (in a pool, river, or at the beach) for at least two weeks after the pellets are implanted. You should discuss these risks with your doctor before deciding whether or not to have the implant procedure.

Can BHRT pellets be removed?

No. Once implanted, pellets are not meant to be removed. They dissolve over time and release hormones into the bloodstream gradually. We understand one advantage of pellets is that they don’t have to be taken daily like pills and that makes them convenient. But once they are placed under the skin, you are stuck with them for 3-4 months.

What alternatives are there to pellet therapy?

Besides pellets, there are other ways to take hormones. For example, patients can take oral medications, or our preferred form of treatment, hormone injections. In fact, at Hormones by Design, we specialize in crafting a unique hormone injection for each of our female patients.

Injections are created and administered every 3-4 weeks. Dosage for each patient is based on their lab work and most importantly, their symptoms. This dose can be adjusted up or down as needed at EVERY visit…unlike dosing with pellets. Our most recent location in New Braunfels is now specializing in hormone injections as well.

In short, pellets can be a convenient choice for some patients. However here at Hormones by Design, we recommend our uniquely crafted hormone injection therapy. We want to listen to you and help you through all the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. Call 830-627-7979 today to schedule your appointment in our newest location, New Braunfels, Texas.

Jeanette Maxey

08/Feb/2022

It’s normal to lose hair as you age. Hair loss in women is usually caused by a decrease in hormones, which can happen as you approach menopause. However, other factors can cause hair loss in women, including stress, diet, and genetics.

In this blog post, we will discuss the causes and symptoms of hair loss in women, as well as treatment options.

Causes of Hair Loss in Women

Decreased hormones: This is the most common cause of hair loss in women. As you approach menopause, your body produces less estrogen and progesterone, which can lead to a decrease in hair growth.
Stress: When you’re stressed, your body releases cortisol, which can cause hair loss. Hair can also fall out when you’re going through emotional stress, such as grief or trauma.
Diet: Hair needs nutrients to grow and stay healthy. If your diet is low in protein, vitamins A and B12, zinc, iron, or fatty acids like omega-three fatty acids (found in fish oil), then you may be more likely to experience hair loss.
Genetics: Hair loss can sometimes be hereditary. If your parents or grandparents had noticeable hair loss, you may also experience it.
Thyroid issues: An overactive or under-active thyroid can cause hair loss.
Autoimmune diseases: Hair loss is a common symptom of autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Birth control pills: Some women experience hair loss after starting birth control pills. This is most likely due to the change in hormone levels.

Symptoms of Hair Loss in Women

Hair thinning: You may start to notice that your hair is thinner than usual. You see lots of hair after shampooing, in the shower, or on your brush.
Hair loss: You may start to lose hair in clumps. Hair may also come out when you brush it or style it.
Bald patches: You may develop bald patches on your scalp where there is little or no hair growth.
Difficulty styling hair: Your hair may be harder to style than normal, due to a decrease in its thickness and volume.

Treatment Options for Hair Loss in Women

treatment for hair loss

Medications: There are several medications available to treat hair loss in women, including minoxidil (Rogaine) and finasteride (Propecia). They can help regrow hair, but they must be used for several months to see results.
Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy: When your hormones are out of balance, bio-identical hormone replacement therapy can help. This therapy involves taking hormones that are identical to the ones your body produces.
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Hair Restoration: PRP Hair Restoration is a treatment that uses your body’s growth factors to stimulate hair regrowth and healing. This is a simple process that begins with a blood draw from your arm. We then spin down the blood to separate the platelets and growth factors, which we inject into areas of hair loss on your scalp. Hair grows in a cyclical pattern, so it may take several treatments to see results. This treatment is now offered in our New Braunfels, San Antonio, and Boerne locations.
Thyroid medications: Medications can help regulate your thyroid if you have an overactive or under-active thyroid. Hair loss may be reduced once the thyroid is back in balance.
Collagen supplements: Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body, and it’s essential for hair growth. Hair loss can be reduced by taking collagen supplements or eating foods high in this nutrient (such as bone broth).
Vitamins and minerals: Taking a multivitamin that includes vitamins A, B12, zinc, and iron can help promote hair growth. You can also speak to your doctor about taking specific supplements for hair loss.

If you’re concerned about thinning hair or other signs of aging, schedule a consultation with one of our providers in our newest location, New Braunfels, Texas! Call 830-627-7979 today.

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In Conclusion

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What are the symptoms of perimenopause?

What can I do to get through perimenopause and menopause without being miserable?

Can BHRT help with menopause?

If you’re interested in BHRT, talk to your doctor to see if it’s right for you.

Menopausal Symptoms

Estrogen, Progesterone, and Testosterone all Play a Role

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Can Help

Antidepressants Also Play a Role

What is menopause and what are the symptoms

What causes insomnia during menopause?

How to treat insomnia during menopause

FAQ’s

Does menopausal insomnia go away?

Can menopause cause severe insomnia?

How can I increase my sleeping hormones?

Conclusion

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Hormone replacement therapy can help reduce your appetite

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Hormone replacement therapy can help you burn more calories

Hormone replacement therapy can help you lose weight in a healthy way

Hormone replacement therapy can help improve your overall health

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What are the consequences of a hysterectomy and/or oophorectomy?

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What are the risks involved in this procedure?

Can BHRT pellets be removed?

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Causes of Hair Loss in Women

Symptoms of Hair Loss in Women

Treatment Options for Hair Loss in Women

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