If you are a woman experiencing frequent mood swings in your late 30s with symptoms like insomnia, hot flashes, and night sweats, you may benefit from Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). HRT is also recommended for men with low testosterone and patients who have hormonal imbalances or related disorders.
Hormones are responsible for supporting many functions in the body, but with age and other factors, the production of major hormones may start to deplete. HRT addresses these concerns. If you are in Twin Falls, consider scheduling an appointment at The Regenerative & Joint Clinic to know if HRT is right for you. Here is an overview of benefits, risks, and everything else.
Understanding Hormone Replacement Therapy
HRT is meant to restore hormone levels, and some of the common hormones used in the treatment include Progesterone, Testosterone, Estrogen, DHEA, and Thyroid. Traditional HRT relies on synthetic hormones, but many wellness clinics now offer bioidentical HRT, which relies on bioidentical hormones. BHRT is a better choice, as the replacement hormones resemble natural ones produced in the body.
Who can consider HRT?
Hormone Replacement Therapy is often recommended for women going through perimenopause or menopause and men dealing with andropause or low testosterone. Younger people who have hormone deficiencies or imbalances may also consider HRT. Symptoms of hormonal imbalance include low libido, vaginal dryness, erectile dysfunction, hot flashes, mood swings, and brain fog. Many patients also experience loss of muscle mass and unexplained weight gain.
Benefits at a glance
HRT is beneficial for women dealing with menopausal symptoms, as replacing hormones can address common issues, including vaginal dryness and night sweats. HRT also addresses other concerns, including anxiety, insomnia, and depression. On the other hand, hormone replacement helps men regain overall muscle mass, energy, and strength, besides helping with libido issues and sexual performance. There is also some evidence that shows that HRT may help stabilize cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
What happens during HRT?
The first step is the initial consultation, where trained doctors and professionals will check your symptoms and review your medical history. They will also order lab tests to confirm your hormone issues. Depending on your goals and symptoms, experts will create a custom treatment plan. Note that HRT can be delivered in numerous ways, but none of them can offer overnight relief. You may see a difference in the next few weeks, and typically, it takes at least three or more months to notice the full effects. You will need lab tests every three to six months, and doctors will adjust dosages accordingly.
Other things to know
The success of HRT also depends on your lifestyle. Diet, stress management, and exercise are key factors, along with good sleep. In some cases, support therapies may be recommended. As for the type of HRT, Bioidentical Hormones are considered better with milder side effects, as these hormones match human hormones structurally. Bioidentical Hormones are derived from sources like soy and yams and are known to be better tolerated. However, your doctor and HRT experts will determine what may work best for you.
As for side effects, you may experience bloating, mood swings, and other minor signs during the initial phase of treatment, but your doctor will tell you when to connect for other issues. HRT is generally considered safe for ideal candidates unless there is severe dependency or other health concerns.
Key takeaways
With hormone replacement therapy, you can regain control of your life after dealing with hormonal issues, regardless of the cause. Ensure you select a trusted and renowned HRT clinic in Twin Falls with good reviews, and if you have specific concerns, always discuss them in detail during the first consultation.
