Bioidentical Hormones are derived from Mexican wild yams and are bioidentical to the hormones your body produces. As opposed to synthetic hormones that are synthesized from other sources. Premarin is a common synthetic estrogen that is derived from pregnant mare urine. Pellets are compounded containing estradiol and testosterone and can be administered through the subcutaneous fat.

Each pellet is approximately the size of a grain of rice and is placed under the skin into the subcutaneous fat. Pellet therapy is ideal because it provides consistent levels of hormones over several months as the body slowly absorbs the pellet. This is a great method for convenience and for those that do not absorb pills, creams, or injections effectively.

The effects of bioidentical hormone pellets can initially be felt in 24 hours by some patients while others may take up to 2 weeks. Typically effects last 3 to 6 months. Because everybody's metabolism is different, there is not a way to determine a specific time frame. Our goals for therapy are symptom control therefore each person's dosing frequency can vary.

Bioidentical hormones have shown more targeted menopausal symptom relief than synthetic options. Bioidentical hormone therapy is easier to monitor because the body's own levels will reflect how well the therapy is absorbing. Monitoring the levels helps to identify each patient's goal range, or where they feel the most symptom relief with the least amount of side effects.

By administering bioidentical hormone replacement through the skin or under the skin, less medication with better absorption. Symptoms typically improve quicker with less side effects. If hormone replacement therapy is given orally, digestion can diminish the amount of drug that is delivered and effectively absorbed.

In 2002, the Women's Health Initiative noted an increased risk of breast cancer in patients who took PremPro (Premarin and a synthetic progestin, Provera). For those patients who took Premarin alone, their breast cancer risk was less. However, it should also be noted that the Women's Health Initiative's data validity has been called into question. Increased risk for blood clots is a noteworthy risk for those on hormone replacement, particularly those that smoke.

We recommend a monthly breast self-exam, annual exams by a doctor and annual mammograms. Tomosynthesis, or 3-D digital mammography, is particularly helpful for those women with dense breasts. By obtaining better quality breast imaging, the need for a breast biopsy is reduced by 15%. All patients are advised of common side effects and risk factors and instructed to take signs of blood clots or stroke seriously. Folic acid and baby aspirin are recommended to decrease the risk of cardiovascular events. Preventive screenings are encouraged, and our office would be happy to get you an order for the proper testing for your age group.

Our office takes preventative medicine seriously and strives to assist all patients to undergo the proper screening when eligible. This includes genetic testing, lab work, mammograms, ultrasounds, and colonoscopies when applicable. Family history will be reviewed annually, and risk factors assessed for additional screenings like heart and vascular scores. Our goal is to work with your other care providers to ensure that you are receiving the maximum benefit to your quality of life without increasing your risk for adverse events.

Please call our office if you would like to find out if Hormone Replacement Therapy can improve your quality of life!