BIO-IDENTICAL HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY (BHRT)

FAQs - Hormone Therapy

• Should I take hormone replacement therapy?

  One of the most popular questions we receive from women is “Should I take hormone replacement therapy?”.  Answering that question is ultimately a very personal decision based on your symptoms, family, and personal history, as well as your desire for the positive benefits hormones can offer vs. the potential risks that they pose. We offer BHRT through bio-identical hormone pellets because from our experience it is the safest and most effective form of treatment.

• What is causing my hormonal imbalance?

  Hormonal fluctuations during menopause and andropause can lead to a variety of symptoms that impact both physical and emotional well-being. It’s essential to recognize that hormonal fluctuations are a natural part of the aging process and can impact individuals differently. With tailored BHRT, patients can find relief. Through personalized treatment plans and therapies tailored to each patient’s unique needs, it is possible to manage symptoms effectively and promote hormonal equilibrium during these transformative life stages.

• What is Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)?

  BHRT is a versatile treatment that helps optimize and increase hormone levels through either medical injection or pellet treatment plans (we focus on pellets because we believe the product is more effective). The treatment focuses on estrogen or testosterone production upkeep to assist patients through menopause and andropause (men) respectively.

• What is Menopause Treatment?

  Menopause heralds a significant hormonal shift in a woman’s life. Once it starts, the ovaries no longer produce the normal amounts of estrogen and progestogen (a molecule similar to progesterone). These hormones regulate the female reproductive system, a part of the body that starts to drastically change during menopause. After a patient’s menstrual cycle has been continuously absent for one year, they have entered menopause. During this transition period, patients may start to experience the effects of getting older including hot flashes and irregular mood swings. BHRT can help curb these symptoms and get you back on track. ⁽¹⁾ BHRT also contributes to preserving bone density, reducing the risk of fractures, and bolstering skeletal integrity.

  1. Harper-Harrison G, Shanahan MM. Hormone replacement therapy. National Library of Medicine. Published May 30, 2019. Accessed November 13, 2023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493191/

• What about Andropause Treatment (for Men)?

  For male patients (we currently do not treat men), testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) replaces reduced testosterone during a phase of aging called andropause. In contrast to menopause development and onset, andropause is typically slow to show symptoms in patients. Testosterone decline is often very gradual and can be protracted, decreasing close to 1% each year after males turn 30. ⁽¹⁾

  Much like the uterus, testicular function starts to dissipate as a patient ages, leading to a decrease in testosterone and other related hormones. The most common effects felt by patients going through andropause are a noticeable decrease in muscle mass, body hair, and libido. Many patients also experience increased depression levels and reduced energy, making a negative impact on their daily lives both physically and mentally. For men experiencing androgen deficiency, TRT works to alleviate these symptoms and can even reverse them for the right patient. ⁽¹⁾

  1. Brawer MK. Testosterone Replacement in Men with Andropause: An Overview. Reviews in Urology. 2004;6(Suppl 6):S9-S15. Accessed February 19, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1472881/

• What are the Benefits of BHRT?

  For those going through menopause BHRT can improve the following symptoms:

  • Hot flashes
  • Excessive sweating
  • Insomnia
  • Age-related anxiety
  • Mood swings
  • Hair loss
  • Bone loss
  • Foggy memory
  • Weight gain
  • Sexual dysfunction

• Who is a Candidate for BHRT?

  Ideal candidates for Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) are individuals seeking to restore balance in their hormone levels. This includes menopausal women, perimenopausal individuals, postmenopausal women, and men with low testosterone levels. There are certain health prerequisites necessary for BHRT, so it is vital to attend a consultation with a qualified professional to ensure the treatment is a good fit.

• What happens during a Personal Consultation with Dr. Tijerino?

  Your private consultation with Dr. Tijerino will cover your medical history, symptoms, and medical desires regarding hormone regulation. She will inquire about your current medications, and order the necessary blood tests and examinations to determine whether BHRT will work to your benefit.

  If BHRT is suitable for you, Dr. Tijerino will go over your health plan, and how the subdermal pellet treatments work. The results of your blood tests will help her create your specific treatments and BHRT schedule.

• What is involved with a BHRT Procedure Plan?

  Dr. Tijerino administers hormone replacement therapy as pellet medications. Pellet therapy uses tiny, highly concentrated hormone pellets about the size of a grain of rice. After they are inserted into a fatty portion of the body like the hip or buttocks, they gradually release a continuous supply of hormones into the bloodstream.

  We monitor you closely throughout BHRT to ensure you stay on track and your hormones stay regulated. To make sure your hormone therapy is working optimally, we schedule several follow-up appointments throughout treatment.

• What do the results typically entail?

  As your hormone levels increase, you may notice changes in mood and sexual function and drive. Most patients start to notice subtle changes in strength and memory after the first or second month of treatment. An increase in energy can often be felt quickly, allowing patients to get back to doing the things that they love.

  Some patients do not notice the results of BHRT for a while after they start treatments. Depending on how they are metabolized, it may take some time for the hormones to take effect. Others may notice a reduction in symptoms quickly, especially if they have been experiencing them for a long period prior to BHRT. Dr. Tijerino determines how long you continue treatment by closely following your progress and making adjustments as necessary.

• What are the possible side effects of BHRT?

  Women may experience some irregular spotting during BHRT. Some patients have tenderness in the breasts, headaches, and continued mood swings. Increased testosterone or estrogen can lead to tiredness, weight gain, or memory problems.

• What must I do if my symptoms return after starting BHRT?

  Your physician monitors you very closely to regulate your dosage and prevent your symptoms from returning. If you notice anything irregular, notify her quickly to reassess your treatment plan.

• Is there a preferred time to start BHRT for patients?

  The best time to start BHRT is during your transition into menopause. It can safely be implemented after a patient has been in that stage of life for a while already but loses some of the beneficial effects if started later into menopause. Your doctor will explain exactly how it can benefit you during your consultation.

• Can BHRT improve quality of life?

  By addressing hormonal deficiencies and alleviating associated symptoms, BHRT can significantly enhance a person’s quality of life. Many patients report feeling more energetic, focused, and motivated after starting hormone replacement therapy.

• What does the Treatment Cost?

  Please visit the information and price list on this website HERE.  Dr. Tijerino’s prices are below most all insurance based medical practices because she can keep her cost down and pass that along to her patients.