Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)
About BHRT - Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)
As we age, our bodies naturally begin to produce lower levels of certain hormones, including estrogen and testosterone.
These hormones play an important role in many areas of the body, including the brain, heart, bones, reproductive system, and more. Changes in hormone levels can contribute to a variety of symptoms that may affect how you feel and function.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) uses hormones that are chemically identical in structure to hormones naturally produced by the body. Treatment is individualized based on your symptoms, medical history, laboratory findings, and personal goals, with the aim of addressing symptoms associated with hormonal changes or deficiencies.
At Virginia Regenerative Medicine & Spa, we use compounded hormone therapy when determined appropriate by your medical provider. Your treatment and hormone levels are monitored over time so your plan can be adjusted based on your individual response.
The Importance of Hormone Balance
• Women typically experience significant changes in estrogen and other hormone levels during perimenopause and menopause. Men may also experience declining testosterone levels with age, and some develop testosterone deficiency, commonly referred to as Low T.
• Hormone levels that are too high or too low can affect how you feel and how your body functions.
• Hormones play an important role in many bodily processes, including metabolism, sexual function, sleep, mood, bone health, and energy. Changes in hormone levels may contribute to a variety of symptoms and can affect each person differently.
Do I need hormone replacement therapy?
If you’re experiencing symptoms that may be associated with changing or deficient hormone levels, a comprehensive evaluation can help determine whether hormone therapy may be appropriate for you.
Your provider will consider your symptoms, medical history, individual risk factors, and laboratory findings when determining whether you are a candidate for hormone replacement therapy.*
Symptoms that may be associated with hormonal changes can include:
Fatigue or decreased energy
Night sweats
Sleep disturbances
Changes in weight or body composition
Mood changes or irritability
Decreased sex drive
Difficulty concentrating or “brain fog”
Decreased stamina
Changes in emotional well-being
How do BHRT pellets work?
The Biote Method uses small hormone pellets, approximately the size of a grain of rice. Dr. Poss places these pellets beneath the skin during a brief, in-office procedure.
• Once placed, the pellets gradually release hormones into the bloodstream over time.
• Treatment intervals vary by patient, but pellets are typically re-administered every 3–5 months based on individual response, symptoms, and laboratory monitoring.
• Over time, the pellets are absorbed by the body, leaving nothing behind. Your provider will monitor your response to treatment and make adjustments when appropriate.
Is hormone therapy safe?
Hormone therapy can be an effective option for appropriately selected patients, but like any medical treatment, it has potential benefits, risks, and side effects.
Bioidentical hormones are chemically identical in structure to hormones naturally produced by the body. With pellet therapy, hormones are released gradually over time, providing sustained delivery between treatments.
Hormone therapy is not appropriate for everyone. Potential benefits and risks vary based on factors such as your age, medical history, individual risk factors, the hormones prescribed, dose, and duration of treatment.
Before beginning therapy, your provider will review your medical history, symptoms, laboratory findings, and individual risk factors. Ongoing follow-up and laboratory monitoring are used to evaluate your response to treatment and make adjustments when appropriate.
Potential Benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy
For appropriately selected patients, hormone replacement therapy may help improve symptoms associated with hormonal changes or deficiencies. Benefits vary based on the individual, the hormones being treated, and the underlying cause of symptoms.
Depending on your individual needs, potential benefits may include:
Improved energy and stamina
Improved sexual function and libido
Improved concentration and mental clarity
Improved sleep
Relief from hot flashes and night sweats
Improved sense of well-being
Improvement in mood changes associated with hormonal fluctuations
Individual results vary, and not every symptom is caused by a hormonal imbalance. Your provider will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and laboratory findings to determine whether hormone therapy may be appropriate for you.
