HORMONE THERAPY

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, also known as BHRT, is a method of re-establishing normal, youthful hormone levels in both men and women. Synthesized from plant sources, bioidentical hormones are constructed to possess the same molecular structures as your naturally occurring hormones. Because bioidentical hormones are virtually indistinguishable from their naturally occurring counterparts, they fit seamlessly within your body’s endocrine system. As such, bioidentical hormones initiate the same chemical responses as your endogenous hormones.

At Arijai Aesthetics, we utilize a procedure known as “BioTe pellet therapy” to ensure proper dosing and consistent delivery of bioidentical hormones. Unlike topically or orally administered hormones, BioTe pellet therapy allows patients to avoid the negative symptoms associated with near-constant fluctuations in hormone levels. Because both topical and oral hormone therapies require frequent administration throughout the day, BioTe pellet therapy is considered by many a superior form of delivery.

Hormone replacement therapy works to treat a wide variety of conditions associated with the aging process and can even serve as a preventive measure for conditions not yet present. In both men and women, BHRT serves to restore the body’s natural balance, increasing blood plasma levels of critical hormones. In doing so, BHRT allows for efficient communication between the endocrine system and the rest of the body, thereby reducing or eliminating bothersome symptoms.

Diabetes

When the hormones required to efficiently metabolize sugar become impaired, many people develop symptoms of Type II diabetes. The pancreas is responsible for normal synthesis of these critical hormones, and age or pancreatic damage can lead to diminished production. Many patients have experienced significant improvements in symptoms due to the pellet’s unique hormone delivery method.

Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome refers to a set of conditions that increase your risk of diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. One of the defining characteristics of metabolic syndrome is an abnormally large waist circumference, often due in part to hormonal imbalance. Researchers believe that one of the biggest culprits behind the development of metabolic syndrome—and unexplained weight gain in general—is unbalanced hormones. Our customized approach to hormone therapy can help resolve or prevent the symptoms of metabolic syndrome.

Heart Disease

As the number one cause of death in the United States, heart disease is responsible for over half a million deaths each year. A decline in the hormone estrogen—which both men and women require—can increase your risk of developing this potentially fatal condition. Because estrogen exerts a protective effect on the heart, hormone therapy can help decrease or prevent symptoms associated with this debilitating condition.

Low Testosterone

Testosterone is essential for both men and women. While men may require higher levels of this critical hormone, it regulates certain processes in the female body, as well. Customized hormone therapy works to restore natural testosterone levels, leading to increased vitality, performance, and well-being.

Thyroid Health

As one of the main hormone production centers in both the male and female body, the thyroid controls an array of important bodily functions. Disruptions in your natural thyroid hormone production can lead to a variety of distressing symptoms, most of which are easily resolved by re-establishing normal levels of these critical hormones.

Perimenopause, Menopause, and Post-Menopause

Women all over the world over struggle with mild to debilitating symptoms of age-related hormonal changes. These symptoms may begin as early as your late 30s and can last well into your late 50s. Bioidentical hormone therapy works to treat a wide array of negative symptoms associated with menopause by restoring optimal levels of critical female hormones.

When naturally occurring hormone levels are unstable, both men and women may experience a variety of symptoms indicating hormonal imbalance. To combat these symptoms and restore a normal function of the endocrine system, hormonal imbalance treatments such as BHRT have demonstrated consistently positive results.

Symptoms of Male Hormonal Imbalance

While most men tend to think of hormonal imbalance as a decrease in natural testosterone levels, males are also subject to variances in other hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and cortisol. Typically, the most common symptoms of hormonal imbalance in men include:

• Low libido
• Chronic fatigue
• Erectile dysfunction
• Decreased muscle and bone mass
• Increased body fat
• Mood and mental capacity changes
• Depression
• Irritability

Symptoms of Female Hormonal Imbalance

Just as men typically perceive hormonal imbalance as a disruption in predominantly male hormones, females often see hormonal imbalance as a decrease in estrogen or progesterone. However, the female body also requires several other hormones such as testosterone, estradiol, and cortisol that when imbalanced, can lead to health complications. The most common among these include:

• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Decreased muscle and bone mass
• Decreased sex drive
• Difficulty sleeping
• Depression
• Mood changes
• Cold extremities

To optimize hormone levels, we administer exogenous hormone therapy using custom-compounded, bioidentical hormone pellets. With therapy, the body recognizes these bioidentical chemical messengers and fully integrates them into normal endocrine functioning. Hormone optimization helps to re-balance the body, reduce or eliminate symptoms, and return patients to a higher state of health and vitality.

The BioTe method utilizes tiny, custom-compounded pellets to resolve a variety of health symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances. Our pellets are compounded by FDA-registered pharmacies and are compliant with FDA regulations regarding sterility and endotoxin control. To ensure consistency and compliance, a dedicated FDA compliance officer oversees the formulation of each batch of custom-compounded pellets.

Pellets are administered subcutaneously, typically around your upper buttock region. After thoroughly numbing the area, we make a tiny incision, insert the pellet, and cover the area with a small bandage. Because the incision is so minuscule, you will not require any type of stitching and can expect to heal within one to two weeks.

After insertion, the pellet slowly dissolves, releasing bioidentical hormones over a sustained period. Over time, the pellet will dissolve completely, after which you may need to return for ongoing treatments. Keep in mind that each patient and symptom set is unique; therefore, pellet reinsertion frequency is highly individualized and will depend on your unique case.

Prior to your procedure, you must complete an extensive evaluation to discuss your symptoms, concerns, and current state of health. During your consultation, we will test your current hormone levels to determine if you are a candidate for hormone replacement therapy. Based on the results of your lab work, we will then formulate a customized combination of bioidentical hormones to address your unique needs and symptoms.

Hormone replacement therapy for men and women is an effective method of re-balancing and optimizing hormone levels to restore health and vitality lost through the natural aging process. After insertion of your custom-compounded pellet, your body will receive an uninterrupted, individualized dose of various hormones delivered directly into your bloodstream. You can expect to observe improvements in your symptoms within seven to 10 days. With treatment, patients often report improvements in several symptoms, including deeper sleep, heightened mental clarity, increased stamina, heightened libido, improved mood, and weight loss, among others.

As with any exogenous hormone therapy, you may experience certain side effects. However, many believe that bioidentical hormone therapy presents a lower risk of serious side effects due to the fact that it does not contain any harsh, synthetic materials. Typically, side effects from this form of hormone replacement first present themselves upon initial dosing, after which they tend to subside. Because the body is not yet accustomed to the higher level of hormones, some patients find they experience symptoms until their body adjusts to its new “normal.”

Side Effects of the BioTe Method in Women

In women, minor side effects of hormonal therapy are often temporary and typically subside as the body adjusts to heightened hormone levels. While annoying, these minor side effects are typically not cause for serious concern; however, if they persist, it is important to speak with your physician regarding your symptoms. Common minor side effects of hormonal therapy in women include:

• Headaches
• Cramping
• Bloating
• Breast tenderness
• Acne
• Mood swings
• Indigestion
• Weight gain
• Spotting
• Fatigue

If, however, you experience more serious side effects such as sudden, severe headache; loss of vision; difficulty speaking; weakness or numbness of the arms or legs; sudden, intense vomiting; chest pain or heaviness; shortness of breath; or leg pain, contact your physician immediately.

Side Effects of the BioTe Method in Men

Hormone therapy for men comes with its share of side effects; however, most of them are minor and tend to subside as the body adjusts to the new increase in hormone levels. If you experience persistent side effects, however, you should speak to your doctor regarding your concerns. The most common side effects of hormonal imbalance treatments in men include:

• Acne
• Fluid retention
• Increased urination frequency
• Decreased urine volume
• Sleep fluctuations
• Oily skin

While many of the above-mentioned symptoms typically diminish and are not cause for serious concern, there is always the potential for more serious side effects. If you experience new or worsened sleep apnea; decreased testicle size and function; heightened cholesterol levels; breast tissue or prostate enlargement; or decreased sperm count, contact your doctor immediately.

At Arijai Aesthetics, our compassionate and knowledgeable team is here to provide you with the therapy you need to maximize your health and vitality. Our caring and experienced professionals are here for you every step of the way as you begin your journey toward optimal wellness. Contact our team to schedule your hormone therapy consultation at 952.435.0605 and get started on the path toward becoming your best you.