Hormone imbalances and deficiencies can negatively impact quality of life. As we age or due to medical conditions, our hormone levels may become unbalanced, leading to unpleasant symptoms. Replacing deficient hormones through bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can provide relief.
BHRT involves supplementing hormones that are identical on a molecular level to those naturally produced in the body. This promotes better utilization and fewer side effects compared to non-bioidentical versions.
At Butterfly Hormone Center in Saint James, we specialize in BHRT to help patients achieve hormonal balance and an improved sense of wellbeing. Keep reading to learn more about common hormone imbalances we treat and the customized programs we offer.
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) utilizes lab-created hormones that are molecularly identical to those produced naturally in the body. This allows receptor sites throughout the body to recognize and properly utilize them.
BHRT is customized based on each patient's unique hormonal needs and deficiencies as determined through lab testing. The bioidentical hormones prescribed are dosed specifically to restore levels to an optimal range based on the patient's physiology.
Because bioidentical hormones are biochemically equivalent to endogenous hormones, the body is able to metabolize and utilize them efficiently. This leads to better symptom relief with fewer side effects compared to traditional synthetic hormone replacement.
At Butterfly Hormone Center, our practitioners have advanced training in BHRT protocols. We tailor treatment based on each patient's lab results, medical history, lifestyle factors, and treatment goals.
Some key benefits of BHRT include:
Our goal is to develop integrative treatment plans that address the root hormonal imbalances contributing to our patients' symptoms. With proper testing and dosing of bioidentical hormones, most men and women achieve noticeable improvements.
There are several key hormones that may become imbalanced, deficient, or fluctuate with age and/or medical conditions. The hormones we commonly prescribe bioidentical replacements for include:
Testosterone plays key roles in physical health, sexual function, mood, and metabolism in both men and women. Over time, testosterone levels naturally decline but sometimes to suboptimal levels leading to unpleasant symptoms.
Low testosterone (low T) is diagnosed through blood testing and evaluation of symptoms. In men, it is referred to as hypogonadism or andropause when related to aging. In women, it may be called female androgen insufficiency.
Symptoms of low testosterone may include:
Bioidentical testosterone therapy can effectively and safely alleviate symptoms when dosed properly based on the patient’s needs.
Estrogen is essential for physical health and wellbeing in women. Beginning in the mid-30’s, women enter the perimenopausal transition marked by fluctuating estrogen levels. This lasts several years until the final menstrual period signaling menopause.
The decline of estrogen during the perimenopausal and menopausal stages of a woman’s life can lead to adverse symptoms including:
Bioidentical estrogen supplementation provided through skin creams, tablets, or pellet implants can effectively treat estrogen deficiency. When dosed properly based on the patient’s needs, studies show bioidentical estrogen alleviates menopausal symptoms and supports bone, heart, and brain health.
At Butterfly Hormone Center, we also address lifestyle factors, provide nutritional support, and address other hormonal imbalances to provide complete menopausal care.
Identifying and properly treating hormone deficiencies requires specialized lab testing. At Butterfly Hormone Center, we use advanced diagnostic testing to evaluate all key hormones along with other biomarkers based on the patient’s needs.
There are a few key reasons specialized lab testing is important when dealing with hormone imbalances:
Based on the initial lab results and evaluation, our practitioners determine the optimal hormones and doses to prescribe for each patient’s unique needs. Follow-up testing helps monitor progress and make adjustments over time.
We use leading diagnostic labs to test hormone, nutrition, and biomarker status. Panels we frequently order include:
Hormone testing: Reproductive hormones, adrenal hormones, thyroid hormones
Nutritional and wellness testing: Vitamin and mineral analysis, food sensitivities, heavy metals evaluation
Cardiovascular testing: Lipid panels, inflammation markers, blood sugar regulation
Cancer risk profiling: Genetic mutations, tumor markers
In addition to the targeted lab panels above, we also order individual tests as needed. Diagnostic testing uncovers what is happening at the cellular level to identify root causes of hormone imbalance.
Hormone therapy can help transgender individuals align their physical characteristics with their gender identity. Studies show that when appropriately prescribed, hormone treatment significantly improves transgender people's quality of life, social functioning, and mental health outcomes by reducing gender dysphoria.
At Butterfly Hormone Center in Saint James, we do more than just prescribe hormones. Our licensed practitioners also specialize in customized nutrition, supplement recommendations, and lifestyle programs to help patients achieve optimal wellness during treatment.
We recognize bioidentical hormone therapy works best when key health areas are also addressed like diet, exercise, stress management, and nutritional supplementation. Our comprehensive plans help patients implement the nutrition, fitness, and lifestyle changes needed to support hormonal balance and feel their best.
During the introductory consultation, our practitioners take an in-depth health history and inquire about symptoms. An exam is performed checking key vital signs and indicators that may relate to hormone status.
Based on this information, we determine the appropriate lab testing needed and outline next steps in the treatment process. Follow-up consultations review the test results, make a diagnosis, and map out the integrative treatment plan.
After thorough lab testing and examination, Butterfly Hormone Center practitioners determine which bioidentical hormone therapy is right for each patient.
The type of hormones prescribed depends on the patient’s lab results, symptoms, medical history, age, lifestyle and treatment goals. We carefully dose hormones based on what dosage strength is required to optimize the patient’s levels.
During follow-up adjustments, we recheck lab levels to ensure adequate symptom relief is achieved without over-supplementing hormones.
In addition to bioidentical hormones, we provide nutritional and supplemental support tailored to the patient’s needs:
Lifestyle measures are also addressed like identifying and treating issues with:
We recognize that hormones do not work in isolation. Our integrative protocols aim to address root causes of hormonal dysfunction for transformative results.
Continue reading for details on specific hormone therapies we offer...
As alluded to earlier, declining testosterone can negatively affect men’s vitality, health, and intimacy. Through proper diagnosis and prompt low testosterone treatment, substantial improvements are possible.
Low testosterone (low T), technically known as hypogonadism or sometimes andropause, has become exceedingly common for men over 40. Yet with advanced hormone testing, it is highly treatable once identified.
Accurately diagnosing testosterone deficiency requires a complete male panel checking total and free testosterone, estradiol, DHEA, and other hormones. Checking symptoms via questionnaire is also insightful.
Along with lab testing, we evaluate contributing lifestyle factors - like diet, fitness level, sleep patterns, and stress influencing T levels.
Based on results, Butterfly Hormone Center practitioners diagnose the degree of deficiency: mild, moderate or severe. Treatment protocols vary accordingly.
When produced in adequate amounts, testosterone offers a multitude of beneficial functions for men’s health.
Symptoms of low T that TRT aims to resolve include:
By restoring testosterone levels, men report improved energy, cognitive ability, body composition, mood and self-confidence. Intimacy and sexual function also get enhanced. TRT also helps mitigate diabetes and heart disease risks when properly implemented.
TRT delivers optimal effects when combined with lifestyle optimization. We offer tailored fitness, nutrition and stress management solutions to help patients actualize the wide-ranging benefits of testosterone therapy.
If low T is identified, Butterfly Hormone Center practitioners determine the best testosterone preparations, dosing and delivery methods for the patient’s unique needs. We utilize an array of TRT options:
Follow-up testing determines if TRT therapy requires any dosing adjustments to optimize the patient’s levels and symptom relief. We also monitor for potential side effects and make modifications as needed under careful supervision.
We emphasize that TRT works best alongside implementing positive lifestyle habits to boost efficacy. Our clinicians guide patients on smart dietary, exercise, stress reduction, and self-care techniques personalized to complement testosterone therapy.
Diminishing estrogen during perimenopause and menopause can significantly disrupt women’s quality of life. Through individualized testing and bioidentical estrogen/progestin restoration, we effectively ease discomfort during this transition.
The onset of perimenopause starts for most women in their mid-to-late 30s as fertility declines. Hormone levels begin fluctuating substantially, particularly estrogen. This hormonal chaos triggers the well-known symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings for an average of 4 years until menopause officially occurs.
Menopause is clinically marked by 12 full months without a menstrual cycle, typically happening between late 40s to early 50s. While symptoms may ease initially, declining estrogen after menopause poses threats like accelerated aging and osteoporosis for the long-term.
Symptoms may include:
Vasomotor symptoms: Hot flashes, excessive sweating, night sweats, flushing
Vaginal dryness: Discomfort, pain, impaired intimate satisfaction
Skin changes: Thinning, dryness, impaired collagen integrity
Heart issues: Greater cardiovascular risk factors
Bone loss: Accelerated osteopenia and osteoporosis
Cognition issues: Impaired memory and concentration
Emotional changes: Mood swings, irritability, anxiety, depression
Sleep disturbances: Insomnia, fatigue, difficulty falling/staying asleep
Weight gain: Accumulation of abdominal fat despite healthy lifestyle
Through proper testing and custom-compounded bioidentical hormone replacement, these symptoms can be effectively eased. At Butterfly Hormone Center, we also address contributory lifestyle measures using an integrative approach.
To alleviate discomfort during perimenopause and menopause, we expertly prescribe the following:
These bioidentical hormones are meticulously dosed to match each woman’s needs based on lab testing and symptoms. Follow-up testing ensures adequate relief is attained without overzealous dosing.
For complementary support, we also provide:
We recognize perimenopause and menopause healthcare must address the physiological along with lifestyle contributors. Our integrative protocols reignite women’s vitality by resolving root causes of hormonal, metabolic and wellness imbalance.
Given the risks posed by long-term hormone deficiency, seeking evaluation and prompt treatment if clinically indicated is crucial. The regenerative physicians at Butterfly Hormone Center specialize in getting to the root causes of patients’ symptoms using an integrative methodology.
Through proper testing, accurate diagnosis, and individually-tailored care plans, we successfully restore lasting hormonal balance and optimal function for men and women at all stages of life.
The summer months of June through August tend to be the optimal time to establish an accurate baseline for reproductive hormone testing. Changes in climate and sunlight exposure seem to stabilize hormone levels during this time compared to fall and winter.
So we generally suggest scheduling initial testing and consultations for new patients during summer if possible. This allows our practitioners to best determine true deficient levels versus temporary seasonal declines.
Of course patients can begin treatment at any time abnormalities are definitively diagnosed. Yet peak summer often provides a more accurate snapshot, especially for borderline cases. Once an adequate treatment protocol is determined, hormone therapy remains beneficial year-round.
Feel free to schedule at your convenience as we tailor care to your needs regardless of season. Those struggling with symptoms are encouraged not to delay.
Reputable labs for our patients' convenience include:
Our front desk staff can provide additional local lab testing resources in Saint James. We will furnish the proper lab requisition paperwork for your convenience.
Taking full advantage of hormone optimization therapies goes hand-in-hand with embracing healthy lifestyle habits. Here are some of our favorite local spots in lovely Saint James for fitness, relaxation, recreation and healthy dining:
Saint James Botanical Gardens – This sprawling garden park has over 5 miles of walking trails that are perfect for a tranquil stroll, jog or meditation session.
Top Health Nutrition Center – For wholesome take-out meals, fresh organic produce, quality supplements and health advice, Top Health is a gem.
The Yoga Den – Offering beginner through advanced yoga classes in a serene environment, the instructors here excel at their craft.
Saint James Community Center – Home to indoor basketball courts, a state-of-the-art fitness center, pools, trails and recreational programming.
Chill Café – When you need a comfortable atmosphere to relax with nutritious fare, coffee and friends, this is the spot.
Pure Prana Hot Yoga – Employing special heated studios and experienced teachers, classes here provide a deeply rejuvenating experience.
There is so much natural beauty and
