Everything You Need To Know About Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

What is Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Hormones play a critical role in regulating many bodily functions, including growth, metabolism, and mood. When these hormones are out of balance, it can lead to difficult physical and emotional issues.

HRT is a medical intervention designed to replenish hormones that are low or imbalanced in the body, primarily focusing on estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, depending on the needs of the individual.

HRT can be used by both men and women.

The therapy is tailored to each person, taking into account specific hormonal needs, medical history, and lifestyle factors. This personalized approach ensures that patients receive the most effective and appropriate treatment for their unique situation.

It can be particularly vital for anyone undergoing natural transitions like menopause or andropause, when the body's production of essential hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone declines.

When To Start HRT

It’s not always clear or easy to spot the signs that you might have hormonal imbalances.

Sometimes symptoms are strongly impacting your life, but it’s hard to talk about it or you’re unsure if the benefits are worth the risks for you specifically.

Other times, symptoms may not even obviously exist yet to you, but the best way to support your body’s most important endeavors and maintain its status quo is through proactive investigation.

Our opinion is that individuals should start getting blood work done in their 20s or when their doctor recommends it. That way they can create a baseline moving forward and can see if changes are happening behind the scenes.

Through blood work, you will get the most thorough, data-backed information, even if you don’t have symptoms. Oftentimes knowledge is half the battle and can offer the greatest peace of mind.

Want to know more specifics on when it might be time to seriously consider HRT?

Check out this article detailing the possible signs that you need Hormone Replacement Therapy.

What are the signs that you need Hormone Therapy

Benefits Of HRT

The importance of HRT extends beyond mere symptom relief. It addresses the root cause of hormonal imbalances, offering a more holistic approach to health and promoting overall well-being.

For many, it can be life-changing, significantly improving mental, emotional, and physical health.

By replenishing the body's hormone levels, HRT can help with various needs including:

1. Alleviating hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings.
2. Improving sexual function and libido.
3. Enhancing bone density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
4. Addressing psychological issues like depression and anxiety.
5. Supporting overall energy levels and improving quality of sleep.
6. Increasing muscle mass and strength.

The emotional and psychological aspects of HRT are particularly essential, addressing the fundamental, all-pervasive importance of bolstering each person’s mood and emotional well-being through every season of life.

Side Effects And Risks Of HRT

While HRT can offer significant benefits, it's not without potential side effects (Zinoviev, A.A., & Lokhmacheva, A.V. (2023)).

Common issues include bloating, breast tenderness, mood swings, and headaches.

These side effects often vary depending on the type of hormones used, the dosage, and the individual's response to the therapy. It's important for patients to communicate any side effects they experience to their healthcare provider immediately, as adjustments to the treatment plan can often mitigate these issues.

In addition to immediate side effects, there are also longer-term potential risks associated with HRT.

These may include an increased risk of certain types of cancer, cardiovascular issues, and blood clots, particularly in specific forms of HRT or in certain patient groups (Nachtigall, L., & Nachtigall, M. (1992)). Some of these risks are debated and some are mitigated with proper dosing and supervision of doctors (Diamanti-Kandarakis, E. (2004)).

The decision to undergo HRT should involve a careful evaluation of these risks in relation to the potential benefits and discussed with your doctor.

Regular monitoring and consultations with healthcare professionals are crucial in managing these risks and ensuring the safe and effective use of HRT.

HRT And Weight Loss

Many people have the misconception that HRT causes weight gain; however, this is often not the case.

In fact, those on HRT treatment plans frequently experience a decrease in body fat.

Sometimes hormonal adjustments can also cause fluid retention which mimics weight gain, but usually the interaction between HRT and your metabolism results in overall weight loss.

However, it’s important to note that the purpose of HRT is not to dramatically shift the number on your bathroom scale. If such a change occurs there can be many causes and subsequent results, so please consult with your healthcare team to ensure your goals and wellbeing stay front and center.

Can You Take HRT For The Rest Of Your Life?

The decision to start or stop HRT at any time is incredibly personal and important to consider carefully.

Generally speaking, if the experience of HRT is going well for you (backed by bloodwork), there’s no reason to stop simply because of how old you are or how long you’ve been receiving this treatment.

Most doctors recommend constant monitoring through bloodwork to make sure the treatment is safe and still effective.

If you are wanting a more individual answer we recommend speaking to your doctor.

Types Of HRT

HRT comes in various forms - each with its own set of advantages and considerations -  including:

• Pills
• Patches
• Gels
• Injections
• Creams

How Do You Choose Which Type Of HRT To Take?

The choice of HRT form depends on individual preferences, cost, medical history, and specific health needs.

For instance, some may prefer patches as they provide a steady release of hormones and are easier than creams or injections, while others might opt for the lower-risk profile of a convenient pill.

The method of delivery can also impact the absorption and effectiveness of the therapy, making it important to choose the right form in consultation with a healthcare provider.

In the realm of HRT, there is also a distinction between bioidentical and synthetic hormones (both of which are available in most delivery forms).

Bioidentical hormones are chemically identical to those the body naturally produces, and are often touted for their natural origin and potential for fewer side effects.

Synthetic hormones, on the other hand, are made from a variety of sources and are designed to mimic natural hormones.

Both types have their advantages and considerations, and the choice between them should be made based on individual health needs, preferences, and medical advice. It's important to have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider to understand the benefits and risks of each type and determine the most suitable option.

Menopause & HRT

Menopause is a natural phase in a woman's life, marking the end of her reproductive years and often accompanied by a range of symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and sleep disturbances, primarily due to the decline in estrogen and progesterone levels.

By restoring hormonal balance (typically by supplementing these hormones), HRT not only helps in managing physical discomforts but also stabilizes mood and improves overall well-being, making it an important treatment option for many women during this transition.

Hormone Therapy should usually start within 10 years after menopause and many doctors agree the sooner the better.

The choice to start HRT should be based on a thorough understanding of one's health, the severity of symptoms, and personal risk factors.

Interested in starting the discussion with a knowledgeable healthcare professional and discovering whether HRT might be a perfect fit for you?

We’d love to help.

I’M READY TO GET BLOODWORK

Testosterone Replacement

Testosterone, the primary male hormone, plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including muscle mass, bone density, and libido. As men age, testosterone levels naturally decline, leading to symptoms such as decreased energy, mood changes, and reduced sexual desire.

Testosterone replacement therapy is a form of HRT that offers the opportunity to significantly improve these issues.

Additionally, it can contribute to bone health, potentially reducing the risk of osteoporosis. It can improve muscle mass and strength, cognitive functions and energy levels.

However, testosterone replacement is not without its risks.

Potential side effects include an increased risk of polycythemia, infertility and gynecomastia. It is important to discuss any side effects you have with your doctor as a lot of these side effects can be mitigated.

If TRT is something that you would like to get more information on or like to get started, purchase a blood work package with Geviti!

LET’S CHECK MY LEVELS!

The Process Of HRT

As with any medical treatment, the process varies from person to person. But essentially, starting HRT should look something like this:

1. Testing to establish your baseline health and needs
2. Consulting with a well qualified healthcare professional to create a personalized plan
3. Beginning your chosen form of HRT
4. Quarterly re-testing (potentially more frequent in the beginning) to evaluate your hormone levels and symptomatic changes.
5. Implementing any HRT adjustments as decided by you and your doctor
6. Once the treatment is dialed in, you may be able to lower testing to semi-annual

Be cautious with providers who simply write you a prescription without proper testing and consulting with you. Never feel pressured to get on a drug unless you fully understand what it is and are comfortable with the risks and benefits and believe it will help you.

The Importance of Blood Work in Hormone Therapy

Blood work plays an indispensable role in determining deficiencies and imbalances, offering invaluable insights into an individual's hormonal health, and beyond.

These tests measure levels of key hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, thyroid hormones, and others, depending on the symptoms and the individual's health history. The results provide a clear picture of which hormones are lacking or are in excess, guiding healthcare providers in creating a finely tuned HRT plan for each patient.

Without this detailed understanding, HRT could be less effective or even pose more risks.

In addition to guiding treatment plans, blood work also aids in identifying any underlying health issues that may contribute to hormonal imbalances. Conditions such as thyroid disorders, insulin resistance, and adrenal dysfunction can significantly impact hormone levels. Identifying and addressing these conditions is crucial for the overall success of HRT. It ensures that the therapy not only alleviates symptoms but also contributes to long-term health and well-being.

So it shouldn’t be a big surprise that this testing is not just a preliminary, one-time step.

Yes, it gives you a baseline to begin the journey, but regular monitoring continues to offer feedback and reassurance that makes longevity a realizable possibility for you and your loved ones.

An individual's hormonal needs can evolve over time due to factors like aging, lifestyle adjustments, and health status. Blood tests help keep hormone dosages at optimal levels and allow healthcare providers to offer the most informed decisions about continuation, adjustment, or even cessation, of HRT, ensuring the effectiveness of the therapy while minimizing potential side effects.

Blood work is the bedrock of personalized healthcare, ensuring that Hormone Replacement Therapy is both safe and consistently effective for each individual.

DIY HRT

DIY HRT is not something that we recommend, encourage or approve of. We have seen websites that stand behind, “informational purposes only” while suggesting getting someone else to purchase a prescription for you or acquiring HRT illegally. This is very dangerous and unwise. Your best course of action is to always work with a licensed physician who is doing proper screening and making sure you are safe and that you have a need.

We get why people might look into this route, but the truth is it's not wise. You should absolutely be in charge of your health and do as much self-care as possible, but when introducing hormones into your system, you also want the best, ongoing medical advice and supervision at all times. This is your physical, mental and emotional well being we’re talking about. If you want empowerment, personalization and privacy, we offer that and more. There’s a lot you can do on your own. Let the pros do the rest with you.

Saliva Hormone Testing

We recommend blood work over Saliva Testing whenever possible.

It’s simply a superior option.

Blood work is generally considered more accurate for monitoring hormone changes compared to saliva tests for a couple of reasons:

1. Blood tests measure the concentration of hormones circulating throughout the entire body, providing a comprehensive snapshot of hormonal balance. This is crucial for diagnosing and managing conditions accurately.
2. Blood tests are standardized and regulated, ensuring consistent and reliable results across different laboratories. In contrast, saliva tests can be influenced by various factors such as hydration levels, time of day, and oral health, potentially leading to variability and less precise outcomes.

Therefore, for a thorough and accurate assessment of hormone levels, blood work is the preferred method.

How Much Does HRT Cost

The cost of HRT varies greatly based on the HRT treatment plans and the companies that offer it, but overall, cost can range from $30-$350 monthly or $360-$3,000+ annually. Depending on the office, prices could be even higher.

We understand that you have enough to worry about without the extra pressures of money, so here at Geviti we make sure that part of how we can take care of you is offsetting as much of the cost as possible.

We strive to provide highly competitive pricing for the healthcare services you need, eliminating the inconvenience and costs associated with traditional doctor visits, such as transportation expenses and waiting times.

Our services are designed to be accessed entirely from the comfort of your home, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.

For detailed information on the value we offer and our pricing, checkout our male and female solutions on our website.

Does Insurance Cover HRT

Dealing with insurance can be a frustrating part of an already complex process, but here is the good news:

Coverage for hormone replacement therapy (HRT) varies by insurance; it is not universally covered, making it essential to review your insurance plan for specifics. Furthermore, some platforms or offices may not accept insurance, opting instead for a cash-pay only system. In certain situations, paying out of pocket for HRT could be more economical than using insurance, depending on your plan's co-pay amounts and other details.

At Geviti, we are cash pay only.

Next Steps

There’s no day like today to start living the life you desire.

There’s no reason not to consider every possible opportunity to improve every aspect of your health and maintain it for years to come.

If you have more questions for our team of experts, please reach out to us here.

But if you’re ready to explore the enormous life-changing potential of HRT, you can start RIGHT NOW.

The Geviti process begins with a comprehensive blood work package that tests key biomarkers, giving us a detailed understanding of your health status. Expert clinicians will then use this information to develop a bespoke plan for you, ensuring you feel fantastic today and maintain optimal health for years to come.

Our commitment is to both your present and long-term well-being.

Let’s take the next steps together.

I WANT TO START LIVING MY BEST LIFE

Disclaimer: The content provided here is intended solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It should not be considered as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are seeking specific information or guidance on the topic discussed, it is strongly recommended that you consult with a qualified healthcare professional or your doctor to address your individual needs and circumstances.

References

1. Diamanti-Kandarakis, E. (2004). Hormone replacement therapy and risk of malignancy. Current Opinion in Obstetrics and Gynecology, 16(1), 73-78.
   
2. Zinoviev, A.A., & Lokhmacheva, A.V. (2023). Pros and cons of hormone replacement therapy. Scientific Bulletin of the Omsk State Medical University.
   
3. Nachtigall, L., & Nachtigall, M. (1992). Hormone replacement therapy. Current Opinion in Obstetrics and Gynecology, 4, 907–913.
   
4. Shalender Bhasin. (2021). Testosterone replacement in aging men: an evidence-based patient-centric perspective. Journal of Clinical Investigation, 131(4).