Bioidentical hormones are hormones that are identical in molecular structure to the hormones produced naturally in the human body. Some key things to know:
Benefits of bioidentical hormones include relief of symptoms related to hormonal imbalance or decline such as:
Many women going through menopause find relief by replacing declining hormones like estrogen and progesterone with their bioidentical versions. This can help with:
Estrogen and progesterone therapy may reduce the frequency and severity of menopause symptoms by replenishing hormones at customized therapeutic levels.
Andropause refers to age-related testosterone decline in men. Low testosterone can cause:
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) using a bioidentical testosterone cream or injection can effectively alleviate low T symptoms and help men feel healthy and energetic as they age.
In both men and women, balanced bioidentical hormone levels are associated with:
The first step in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is diagnosing whether a true hormone deficiency or imbalance exists through laboratory blood tests and analysis.
Some signs that may indicate the need for testing include:
Testing analyzes blood levels of key hormones like estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA-S, cortisol and thyroid to uncover imbalances or suboptimal levels.
Testing protocols at The Balance - Hormone Medical Clinic include:
Test results are carefully evaluated by our clinicians alongside a patient's health history and risk factors. We determine an individualized hormone optimization plan to restore balance, energy and wellbeing.
If testing reveals a hormone imbalance, bioidentical hormone therapy can help restore optimal levels.
Some common replacement protocols include:
For women: Custom-compounded creams, patches, tablets or suppositories containing both an estrogen and progesterone component. Dosages start low and adjust based on follow up testing.
For men or women: Testosterone creams, injections or sublingual drops/tablets. We personalize strength and dosing regimens based on lab work.
DHEA tablets or capsules taken daily. Supplementing DHEA is especially beneficial for those over age 35.
Oral tablets or sublingual formulations taken at bedtime to promote healthy sleep-wake cycles. Helpful for perimenopausal women.
We customize and continually optimize dosing and delivery methods for each patient based on symptoms and follow up testing. The goal is to both alleviate deficiency symptoms and achieve optimal balance and wellbeing long-term.
Bioidentical hormones are identical in molecular structure to the hormones women make in their bodies. However, studies show there is little evidence on long-term safety or clear improvement in menopausal symptoms compared to synthetic hormones. More research is still needed on bioidenticals' risks and benefits.
There are many advantages to pursuing bioidentical hormone therapy (BHRT) at our Cambridge specialized clinic:
In summary, you can feel confident you are receiving the most advanced diagnostics and specialized BHRT therapies available when you entrust your care to The Balance - Hormone Medical Clinic. We are driven by achieving optimal vitality and wellness for our Cambridge area patients through expert hormone balance and replacement.
Please reach out with any questions - we are always happy to help inform and guide you! Now is an ideal time to take control over your health, hormones and aging process.
Hormone imbalances can develop slowly over many months or years. Often symptoms are dismissed as normal effects of aging, stress, or other health conditions. However, feeling your best requires properly balanced hormones at physiological levels.
The risks of untreated hormone deficiencies include:
Unfortunately hormone imbalance can substantially progress before it gets properly diagnosed. That is why we recommend adults be tested periodically for hormone status starting at age 35.
For those with deficiencies or imbalance, timely bioidentical hormone therapy can help restore wellness and drastically improve quality of life. Benefits are often experienced quickly including better energy, mood, sleep and an enhanced sense of health.
Do not dismiss persistent symptoms as an inevitable part of aging. Take charge of your health - get tested and seek treatment if your hormones are imbalanced! The Balance - Hormone Medical Clinic is here to help.
Our specialty hormone clinic is conveniently located in the heart Cambridge. With prestigious universities, advanced medical centers, historical sites, and cultural attractions Cambridge has been described as the "perfect blend of character, charm and community."
It also boasts an abundance of green space including parks, gardens, conservation land and nature trails perfect for reflection, walking or cycling. Our mild New England climate means outdoor activity can be enjoyed most of the year. Spend time connecting with nature and feeding your soul while supporting your hormone therapy goals.
Some favorite local spots include:
Cambridge also offers an incredible range of international cuisine, from Moroccan and Indian to Thai, Chinese, Japanese and more. Discover flavorful nutritious eats to complement your wellness journey.
Sample some of Cambridge’s high quality fare at eateries like:
There are also wonderful holistic wellness centers, salons, yoga studios and gyms supporting whole body balance:
The Balance - Hormone Medical Clinic is proud to serve the Cambridge area. Let's work together to restore your hormone health - mind, body and spirit!