Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is becoming increasingly popular in the wellness community, especially among those of us looking to look, feel, and be our best. Aging gracefully is truly made possible through the careful use of hormone replacement. That said, with an increase in popularity comes an increase in options as to who you can go to for your therapy.
On one hand, this is a great thing! It’s exciting to see such powerful medicine being accepted and pursued as a viable alternative to trudging through the symptoms of aging. On the other hand, it may lead to some confusion as to who exactly to go to when you do decide it’s time to start your journey with hormones.
Here we’re going to briefly discuss some of the things to look out for, to ask about, and who to turn to if you decide hormone therapy is the right decision for you.
If you’re a woman, it’s entirely possible that your OB-GYN has some experience in prescribing hormones. Most commonly, these types of doctors are familiar with the use of hormones by way of birth control, even using them to help minimize the symptoms of PMS and hormone cycles that women experience.
If you’re a man, especially someone who frequents the gym, perhaps you’ve heard of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and maybe you have a serious gym rat friend who has recommended you check it out. After all, testosterone does have a powerful effect on muscle building and retention.
In either case, it’s important to learn about a provider and the hormones they prescribe before you go ahead and introduce them to your body.
First and foremost, we need to recognize that hormones fall within the discipline of internal medicine. This means that a doctor or nurse practitioner who has either specialized in or had years of experience treating patients with hormones is ideal.
If possible, try to find a provider who has a degree in metabolics, biology, internal medicine, or functional medicine. These are, essentially, the most relevant fields of study with regards to hormones, and since our hormone balance is as much a science as it is an art form, this education is a crucial foundation for properly prescribed hormone therapy.
Additionally, you want to make sure that the hormones being prescribed in your treatment are what’s called “bio-identical”, meaning they are created in such a way that they exactly match the hormones already in our bodies. This is crucial because synthetic hormones can cause serious issues and even lead to the development of cancer, whereas bio-identical hormones have actually been shown to offer protection from such things.
If you’re interested in HRT, be sure to find a provider who only prescribes bio-identical hormones. Also make sure to find a provider who specializes in the treatment, not just dabbles; HRT is a balancing act which should be carefully planned and monitored to ensure healthy, long-lasting benefits.
At Gershon Preventative Medicine, we’re here to help. Our mission is to help you Live Your Best Life through our evidence based, custom tailored Bio-identical Hormone Optimization Therapy. Contact us today to speak to an expert about how hormones could radically improve your quality of life.
