At a certain age, many men and women start to feel out of balance. Instances of fatigue and overwhelm may seem to increase for no apparent reason. Weight gain may plague a person who has tended to respond well to normal diet and exercise habits. These changes are often attributed to natural changes associated with age; however, the real culprit may be hormones. At Stem Cells Philadelphia, we help men and women regain optimal wellness and vitality during mid-life and beyond through the use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

What is Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Hormone replacement therapy is a form of treatment that addresses the normal hormonal changes that occur with age. In the past, we used to associate hormone replacement therapy only with women who were struggling through the symptoms of menopause. Today, we know that men are equally interested in reinstating optimal hormone balance to maintain higher levels of energy and better physical performance and overall health.
 

Bioidentical hormones are made with the same molecular structure as the body’s naturally made hormones. Using primarily plant sources, these supplements act as the powerful chemical messengers the body needs to operate at full capacity. Traditional hormone replacement therapy uses synthetically made hormones developed in a laboratory setting.

How does Hormone Replacement Therapy Work?

Hormone replacement therapy can be delivered in several different ways. Some patients prefer to use creams or patches, some have taken oral supplements, and more recently, vaginal applications have been developed. Regardless of the method of delivery, hormone replacement therapy works by compensating for the lack of bioavailable hormones a person has. This regulation is achieved by measuring current hormone levels using blood work or other diagnostic tests. Treatment is then customized for each individual to bring levels of relevant hormones up to a normal range.

What Conditions can Hormone Replacement Therapy Treat?

A wide range of symptoms women and men experience can be managed with hormone replacement therapy.

These include:



• Premenstrual syndrome
• Unexplained weight gain during mid-life
• Fibrocystic breasts
• Urinary incontinence
• Sexual health and libido
• Osteoporosis
• Sleep disturbances
• Mood disturbances
   
  

What are the Benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Studies suggest that hormone replacement therapy offers benefits such as:

• Improved libido
• Improved sleep
• Improved energy levels
• Reduced menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes
• Improved muscle mass and strength
• Better weight management
• Improved mood and memory

Am I A Candidate for Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Men and women who are experiencing the symptoms of hormone decline may be helped by hormone replacement therapy.

Signs of hormone imbalance in women include:

• Irregular periods
• Unexplained weight gain and difficulty losing weight
• Hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings
• Difficulty sleeping
• Chronic fatigue
• Low libido

Signs of hormone imbalance in men include:

• Declining libido or erectile dysfunction
• Abdominal weight gain
• Lack of focus and drive
• Moodiness, anxiety, or depression
• Difficulty building and maintaining muscle

In addition to treating the common symptoms of menopause and andropause, hormone replacement therapy has also been used to improve the symptoms of other conditions.

Conditions successfully treated with hormone replacement therapy include:

• fibromyalgia
• osteoporosis
• adrenal disorders
• insulin resistance

In addition, women who have undergone cancer treatment may find relief from side effects with hormone replacement therapy.

Is Hormone Replacement Therapy Safe?

A great deal of research has been conducted on hormone replacement therapies, both synthetic and bioidentical. Doctors have relied on synthetic hormone replacement for decades, and many women have been helped by estrogen, progesterone, or combination HRT. A growing body of evidence suggests that bioidentical hormones have a high safety rating and may even help to decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease, breast cancer, and osteoporosis. Safety and efficacy are increased by the routine performance of bloodwork to monitor the effects of customized treatment.
 

Are There Any Risks to Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Hormone replacement therapy seeks to restore balance among the sex hormones. As the body readjusts and finds balance, men and women may experience temporary side effects. Both sexes may experience weight gain, acne, changes in hair growth patterns, anxiety, and mood swings. Women may also experience breast tenderness and changes to menstruation. To minimize risks associated with hormone replacement therapy, doctors suggest routine lab work to consistently measure hormone levels.
 

Is Hormone Replacement Therapy Right for Me?

Are you ready to find out if hormone replacement therapy is right for you? Stem Cells Philadelphia is here to help. Call us and Schedule Your Hormone Replacement Consultation Today. Our seasoned healthcare professionals are available to review the options and find the best solution for your optimal health. Please contact us to schedule a consultation at 610-999-1690, today!