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Bioidentical Hormone Replacement
Hormones change as we age! How do you know if you're experiencing hormone changes? You're here which is the right place to start. Dr. Freeman is a hormone expert. Call today or book your 45-60 minute consultation to go through YOUR questions. Symptoms of peri-menopause and menopause have a wide range; mood swings, less desire for sex, difficulty losing weight, fatigue, sleep disturbance, night sweats, difficulty achieving orgasm, itchy ears (itchy anything), dry skin, urinary incontinence, urinary urgency, innattention, irritability, hot flashes, many more. Our practice offers bioidentical hormone replacement therapy to restore your hormones. To learn more, call our office or schedule an appointment online today. Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and Facebook where Dr. Freeman shares updated evidence based information.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Q&A
What is bioidentical hormone replacement therapy?
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) simply restores the hormones that our bodies stop producing during peri-menopause and menopause. For men this period is referred to as andropause. The term bioidentical refers to natural hormones which differ from synthetic hormones. They are both synthetic in that they are created in labs but bioidentical estrogen and progesterone more closely mimic our bodies' naturally produced hormones. Effects and safety DIFFER between bioidentical and "synthetic" hormones. There is no bioidentical equivalent of testosterone.
No two people experience peri-menopause or menopause the same. This can feel frustrating for Doctors but Dr. Freeman enjoys the individuality. It does take more time. Testing (blood/saliva hormone levels) are important to keep your levels from being too low or too high but mostly she will work with you based on your symptoms to come up with a plan for your hormones.
Menopause
Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years, when her menstrual cycle stops. During menopause, estrogen and progesterone levels plummet. This drop in hormone levels can be gradual or sudden but either way you'll feel something! Usually uncomfortable symptoms occur as mentioned above. Some women feel better during menopause! Yes, hormones are complicated. This is why you need and deserve to go on this journey with a hormone expert. Dr. Freeman is a member of The Menopause Society and is one option. Check out https://menopause.org and https://menopauseandcancer.org
Recommended book: The New Menopause by Dr. Mary Claire Haver
Andropause
Men's testosterone decreases usually in the 40s but can be seen in the 20s and 30s especially if there are other medical issues such as a history of repetative head trauma. Andropause, or low T, can be a gradual or sudden drop in testosterone. Testosterone regulates every organ so symptoms can vary from libido to fatigue/muscle mass/bone health and emotions.
Why do you need a hormone expert?
Sadly Doctors receive little to no training in hormones during medical school or residency. This is why there can be varied "opinions" among an OB/gyn or Family Doctor or Internal Medicine Doctor. The speciality doesn't matter. You want to find a Doctor who went through extra training in hormone health in addition to regular medical school and residency. Dr. Freeman apologizes on behalf of the medical establishment for the FAILURE to safely or accurately diagnose hormone changes and prescribe replacement. Changes are coming and it's an exciting time as more studies are conducted for women's health through her lifespan not only focused on reproduction. Stay tuned as we keep you up to date!
Hormones are available in many forms; gels, creams, injections, patches, suppositories pellets. Each delivery method has pros and cons. Our experts work with you to determine the best method for you.