Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy, like any medical intervention, carries potential risks and side effects that vary depending on factors such as the type of hormones used, the method of administration, and individual health conditions. Risks with HRT are related to improper dosing and imbalanced levels and interactions with other preexisting conditions. Common side effects may include mood swings, breast tenderness, weight fluctuations, and changes in libido.
For estrogen or testosterone-based therapies, there may be an increased risk of blood clots or cardiovascular issues, particularly in patients with pre-existing health conditions. Long-term hormone therapy, especially in postmenopausal women, has been associated with a slightly elevated risk of certain cancers, such as breast and uterine cancer.
It’s crucial for individuals considering hormone therapy to discuss their medical history, overall health, and concerns with their healthcare provider. Regular monitoring and open communication help mitigate potential risks, allowing for timely adjustments to the treatment plan to ensure a balance between the therapeutic benefits and any associated side effects.

There are several ways that hormone therapy can be administered, and the choice often depends on the specific hormones prescribed, individual health considerations, and patient preferences.
Common methods include oral pills, patches, injections, creams, or gels. Oral pills are a convenient option for some hormone replacements, while patches deliver hormones through the skin. Injections are administered intramuscularly or subcutaneously. Topical creams or gels allow for transdermal absorption. Which method your provider will recommend depends on the patient’s comfort, efficiency, and the desired therapeutic outcome. Regular follow-ups enable adjustments to the treatment plan as needed, ensuring optimal efficacy and safety throughout hormone therapy.

The longevity of hormone therapy can vary, depending on the specific goals, treatment methods, and which conditions are being addressed. For conditions like menopause or andropause, hormone therapy is often considered a temporary measure to alleviate symptoms rather than a permanent solution.
For other conditions like osteoporosis, hormone-responsive cancers, or certain endocrine disorders, the length of treatment depends on the individual’s response to therapy, the progression of the condition, and other health factors.
Hormone therapy treatments can range from a few months to several years and patients are reassessed periodically to evaluate necessity and effectiveness.

Hormone therapy is a versatile medical treatment used to address various conditions related to hormonal imbalances. The most common application is in the management of menopausal symptoms in women, where hormone therapy helps alleviate issues such as hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances by supplementing their naturally declining estrogen levels. In andropause, hormone therapy can assist men experiencing a decrease in testosterone levels, mitigating symptoms like fatigue and changes in libido.
Hormone therapy is also used in the treatment of certain cancers, such as breast and prostate cancers, by modifying hormone levels to hinder tumor growth. Additionally, osteoporosis, delayed puberty, and endocrine disorders may benefit from hormone therapy to restore hormonal balance and promote overall health.

At Delatte Plastic Surgery, Skin Care, & Wellness, we utilize cutting-edge medical advancements to develop treatment plans for each patient suffering from hormonal imbalances. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) utilizes hormones that closely mimic those naturally produced by the human body. These hormones are sourced from plants and are developed to fit the individual’s specific hormonal requirements. BHRT addresses symptoms arising from hormone imbalances and deficiencies, such as those encountered during perimenopause, menopause, and andropause. It also works to mitigate associated complications and prevent diseases stemming from hormonal imbalances. Bioidentical hormones can also address various conditions preceding menopause, including PCOS, low testosterone, PMS, PMDD, postpartum mood disorders, and mental health issues resulting from hormonal imbalances. Through tailored dosing of plant-derived hormones, BHRT provides a more personalized, safe, and effective alternative to some traditional hormone replacement therapies.