Hormone Management Specialist

What is hormone therapy?

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the use of medication that mimics the female reproductive hormones, estrogen, and/or progesterone, to provide relief from symptoms related to menopause. Replacement hormones are available in a variety of forms including, skin patches, gels, creams, and pills. Hormone therapy can be effective in alleviating common menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, vaginal atrophy, fatigue, insomnia, weight gain, and headaches. Initially, HRT was provided with synthetic hormones. Over time, many physicians began to use bio-identical hormone therapy instead because of reduced associated risks. Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy uses special replacement hormones, customized to match the patient’s own hormones.

What are bio-identical hormones?

Bio-identical hormones are chemically identical to the hormones that occur naturally in each woman’s body. They are generally made from a plant chemical extract derived from yams and soy. These are then processed in a medical lab to precisely duplicate the structure and function of hormones naturally produced by the body.

What are the advantageous of bio-identical hormones?

The body cannot differentiate bio-identical hormones from those naturally produced by a woman’s ovaries. Therefore, dosages can be easily customized for each patient, rather than the previous standardized dosages prescribed. Many women find significant relief from the uncomfortable symptoms associated with menopause and are able to lead more active and healthier lives as a result. Dr. Thoppil carefully monitors women undergoing bio-identical hormone replacement therapy. With any hormonal treatment, it is essential to make sure that the hormones are provided in the correct dosage to address the symptoms being experienced without over or under prescribing. Dr. Thoppil meets with his patients regularly to monitor their overall health and symptoms as well as their hormone levels. While regular blood work is necessary to ensure the correct dosage is being administered, eventually the testing will become less frequent as the correct dosage is fine-tuned to specifically address the patient’s unique needs.