One of the (many) unwanted effects of natural aging is a reduction in hormone function, resulting in symptoms like fatigue, memory issues, as well as decreased sexual function and desire. Through bio-identical hormone replacement, we are able to restore healthy hormone levels. This process reduces the effects of these symptoms as well as helping to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s, breast cancer and stroke.
Certified BioTE® provider
Integrative Health & Rehabilitation is a certified BioTE® provider. This method of care is a form of bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) that relies on pellets as a way to replace the hormones men and women lose over the course of their lives.
While it is most commonly used to improve menopause-related symptoms in women and conditions associated with lowered testosterone symptoms in men, BioTE® has been shown to also reduce the risk of serious health problems, such as osteoporosis, heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes. Learn more about BHRT and how it may work for you!
How Does It Work?
As we age, our hormone levels can begin to decline, resulting in many different symptoms. Oftentimes, hormone imbalances can occur with expected life changes like menopause in women and andropause in men. Following lab testing,our trained nurse practitioner will review your results to determine if you are a candidate for BioTE® Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy.
Male Hormone Imbalance
Signs and Symptoms
Low levels of testosterone in men is much more than just low sex drive or sexual dysfunction (ED). Symptoms consistent with low testosterone are:
- Low sex drive
- Sexual dysfunction (ED)
- Chronic fatigue
- Decreased sex drive
- Loss of muscle mass
- Increased body fat
- Decreased bone mass
- Mood changes
- Lower mental capacity
- Irritability
- Depression
Studies have shown there are some conditions that are consistent with low levels of testosterone. These include diabetes, cardio vascular disease, depression, stress, anxiety, alcohol use and high cholesterol.
Female Hormone Imbalance
Signs and Symptoms
There are a variety of symptoms from hormone imbalance in women. Symptoms of hormone imbalance may include:
- Fatigue
- Night sweats
- Hot flashes
- Decreased sex drive
- Weight gain
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Cold hands and feet
If your menstrual cycle has stopped before menopause, or if you are experiencing this or any other symptom of menopause, you may have low estradiol. An increase in urinary tract infections (UTIs), depression, or painful intercourse might also indicate low estradiol in women.
Getting Started
Are you ready to get started? We are here to help you in any way we can. If you are good candidate for BioTE®, we will first have you complete a sex-specific health assessment form. Based on your answers, we will be able to come up with an individualized plan of care that meets your specific needs.
Both the male and female assessment forms include a list of potential symptoms for you to rate by frequency of occurrence and severity. They also have a section for you to tell us more about your family history. From there – we will do the rest!
FAQ
What should I do to prepare for my appointment?
If possible, you should stop taking all non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) one week prior to your pelleting. These medications include but are not limited to aspirin, ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and naproxen sodium. Fasting is not necessary.
What happens during the visit?
At the beginning of your appointment, which will only take a few minutes, you will be shown into an exam room. There, the insertion site will be numbed and sanitized and a small incision will be made for pellet insertion. Once the pellet is inserted, a small bandage will be placed over top of the insertion site for protection.
How often will I need to be seen?
Men will typically start to see their symptoms of low-T return after about 6 months. Women will see a return of symptoms after 3 to 4 months. As each practice member’s circumstances are unique, frequency of pellet insertion is also unique. Most people will see an improvement in their symptoms 2 to 4 weeks after starting therapy.
How must does this procedure cost?
Similar to frequency of care, cost of care also depends on the individual practice member. Your unique condition, including the number of visits you will need to achieve results, is the largest factor in total expense. Overall, the cost of BioTE therapy is very close to the cost of synthetic estrogen and testosterone treatments.
Why Wait?
There is no reason to wait when it comes to hormone imbalance. The sooner your hormones are balanced, the sooner you can enjoy the benefits of feeling and functioning better. Happiness and sadness as well as comfort and discomfort are all affected by our hormonal function. You never know – BioTE® may be your long-awaited answer to nagging discomfort.
Contact us to learn more about BHRT. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you live your best life.