Hormone therapy refers to medical treatment that replaces or supplements hormones when your body cannot produce enough on its own. It can help restore hormone balance and alleviate unpleasant symptoms of hormone deficiency.
Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, thyroid hormone (T3 & T4), melatonin, DHEA, growth hormone etc. regulate many vital bodily functions - sleep cycles, metabolism, sexual function, mood, energy levels and more. When your endocrine system cannot synthesize and secrete these chemicals properly, you may experience hormonal imbalance.
Signs and symptoms pointing to possible hormone deficit include:
If you struggle with one or more of these on a regular basis, getting your hormone levels tested is strongly recommended.
Left untreated, hormonal disorders like hypothyroidism, low testosterone etc. can negatively impact your quality of life. They are also risk factors for various medical conditions.
For example, thyroid hormones regulate metabolism. Untreated hypothyroidism is associated with weight gain, high cholesterol levels, heart disease risk, depression and fertility issues.
Likewise, declining testosterone in aging men can lead to loss of muscle mass, weight gain, low libido, erectile dysfunction, poor concentration and increased irritability. It also accelerates bone density loss and frailty.
Balancing your hormones in a timely manner helps optimize wellbeing on physical and emotional levels. It also reduces likelihood of developing associated comorbidities. Fertility issues are likewise easier to address before hormone deficits become severe.
At Harmony Health our practitioners emphasize early testing and treatment to help patients feel their best and lead full lives at every age. We offer cutting edge therapies personalized to your needs.
Accurately diagnosing hormone disorders requires specific blood (serum) tests. These provide objective measurements of your hormone levels compared to normal reference ranges adjusted for your gender and age.
Common lab tests check levels of:
| Hormone | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Testosterone | Low, medium or high T levels in men point to hypo/hypergonadism |
| Estrogen | Low levels associated with menopausal symptoms in women |
| Progesterone | Ensures proper menstrual cycling and fertility |
| TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) | Screens for hypo/hyperthyroidism |
| DHEA-Sulfate | Precursor of estrogen and testosterone |
| IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1) | Co-factor of growth hormone |
Interpreting the results requires an experienced professional. Hormone levels fluctuate naturally throughout the day and across lifespan. Changes can be very individual too.
Our practitioners will accurately analyze your lab reports considering your symptoms and medical history. We determine optimal hormone balance tailored specifically for you.
Regular patients get follow-up tests during treatment to ensure effective hormone therapy. We also check for possible side effects early.
Harmony Health specializes in diverse cutting edge hormone therapies for both men and women. Our individualized treatment plans can include:
Our clinic offers both standard and innovative state-of-the art options. We continualy research new evidence-based approaches to help patients achieve optimal wellness.
Hormones can be administered via injections, oral medications, sublingual drops, transdermal gels, creams or patches. Pellet implants placed under the skin provide longer-acting delivery. Each option has pros and cons to consider.
| Delivery Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Injections | Get directly into bloodstream, lower doses may be effective, maintain stable levels | Some patients dislike needles or find injections inconvenient |
| Oral Medications | Convenient | Hormone molecules undergo breakdown in digestive tract and liver, lowering bioavailability and increasing side effects |
| Transdermal Gels, Creams | Allow absorption directly via skin into bloodstream, bypassing liver breakdown, flexible dosing | Potential skin irritation at application site |
| Patches | Convenient, only need replacement once or twice a week | Some patients develop skin sensitivity or allergic rashes to adhesives |
Finding the optimal delivery method for your lifestyle takes some trial and error. Our experienced staff will guide you through the options. We continually track latest product innovations and research to provide patients with best available treatments.
While hormone therapy provides enormous benefits, certain lifestyle adjustments help maximize results:
Adjusting such lifestyle factors while undergoing treatment allows achieving wellness goals faster. Our consultants provide in-depth recommendations tailored to your needs and preferences.
Despite proven health benefits, some myths and misconceptions still surround hormone replacement therapy. Let's debunk the common ones:
Myth: Hormone therapy causes cancer
Fact: Well-monitored HT has not been shown to increase cancer risk. Oral estrogens may slightly elevate breast cancer likelihood in some women but transdermal bioidentical hormones don't share this link. Testosterone therapy also does not promote prostate cancer per research.
Myth: Hormone therapy harms your health.
Fact: On the contrary, properly administered HT improves wellbeing and reduces disease risk associated with hormonal imbalance. Recent studies confirm cardiovascular and metabolic benefits from replacing age-declining hormones to youthful levels.
Myth: HRT medication is "unnatural".
Fact: Lab-made synthetic hormones can seem artificial but bioidentical hormones have the exact same structure as chemicals made by human body. However, adjustment periods may be required with stronger initial effects. That is why proper oversight is important.
Myth: Hormones make you aggressive and moody.
Fact: Some men report mood swings on testosterone therapy but it happens rarely with proper precautions. Estrogen actually has calming, anti-anxiety effect in both genders. Balancing key hormones reduces irritability associated with deficits.
Correct information is crucial for navigating treatment options. Our consultants stay current on latest evidence and best practices in hormone optimization. We provide comprehensive guidance so patients can make informed decisions regarding their therapy choices.
At Harmony Health we specialize in precision hormone balancing therapies. Our clinic focuses exclusively on diagnosing and treating various hormonal disorders. We offer cutting edge medical treatments not readily available at standard health facilities.
What sets Harmony Health apart is our individual-focused approach and strong expertise. Our practitioners have years of advanced training and experience in endocrinology, anti-aging medicine and optimization of human biochemistry. We stay at the forefront of the evolving field studying the newest research and innovations.
We understand the deeply personal nature of hormonal health issues which is why every patient gets customized care based on their unique needs. After comprehensive lab testing and medical examination we put together a precision treatment plan to help you reclaim optimal wellness. We choose from wide range of delivery methods for optimal experience and convenience.
During treatment we monitor progress through follow up consults and testing. We make dosage adjustments promptly as needed for best effects. You have full access to your medical team for ongoing support. We are your partners throughout the hormone balancing journey and thereafter.
We also emphasize holistic healing of the whole person. Our staff includes a nutritionist and mental health counselor. We have partnered with personal trainers, yoga teachers etc. to address lifestyle changes that complement hormone optimization.
Harmony Health accepts most health insurance plans. We work to minimize your out-of-pocket expenses associated with treatment and testing costs. Significant tax deductions are also available due to the medical nature of our services.
We welcome you to schedule a consultation at our friendly hormone health center that feels like home. Reclaim the energy, sharpness and wellbeing your body in its prime - balanced hormones set the foundation. We look forward to helping write your hormone success story!
Hormone therapy can be a life-changing treatment for individuals suffering from hormonal imbalances. By restoring optimal hormone levels, patients can experience significant improvements in their overall well-being, energy levels, sexual function, mood, and more. At Harmony Health, we offer personalized and cutting-edge hormone therapy solutions tailored to each individual's unique needs. Our experienced practitioners prioritize early testing and treatment, ensuring that our patients receive timely and effective care. With a wide range of treatment options, including bioidentical hormones, compounded hormones, nutraceuticals, and growth hormone therapy, we strive to provide the best possible outcomes. By combining hormone therapy with lifestyle adjustments, such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, quality sleep, and stress management, we empower our patients to achieve optimal wellness. At Harmony Health, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive guidance and support throughout your hormone balancing journey, ensuring that you have the knowledge and resources to make informed decisions about your health. Schedule a consultation with us today and take the first step towards reclaiming your vitality and embracing a life of optimal well-being.
