Managing Menopause with Hormone Therapy (HRT)
Hormone Therapy For Women
At Pace Pharmacy, we understand the profound impact hormonal imbalances can have on women’s health, particularly during menopause. Our tailored Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) services are designed to restore hormonal balance by supplementing the body with hormones that are chemically identical to those naturally produced, yet may decline due to aging or illness. With a focus on enhancing the quality of life, our comprehensive approach includes assessing hormone levels, evaluating symptoms, and customizing treatment plans.
Restoring Hormonal Balance
Customized hormone therapy is the restoration of deficient hormones with hormones that are chemically identical to those that the body naturally produces, but which have declined due to ageing or illness.
Customized hormone therapy has improved the quality of life for millions of women who suffer from hormonal imbalance. The ideal process for achieving hormonal balance includes an assessment of hormone levels and complete evaluation of signs and symptoms, followed by restoration of the deficient hormones in the most appropriate dose via the most effective route for each woman, and monitoring to fine tune the therapy.
Estrogen is prescribed to relieve menopausal symptoms and treat postmenopausal problems such as vaginal dryness and tissue breakdown, painful intercourse, and various urinary disorders. Estrogens have been shown to decrease the risks of osteoporosis.
Progesterone is commonly prescribed for perimenopausal women to counteract “estrogen dominance”, and may enhance the beneficial effect of estrogen on lipid and cholesterol profiles.
Synthetic medroxyprogesterone acetate does not confer all of the benefits of natural progesterone. That is why we recommend the use of natural estrogen and progesterone.
Androgens are a class of hormones that include DHEA and testosterone, which are normally produced in a young healthy woman, and are important for libido as well as integrity of skin, bone, and muscle. When women enter menopause, testosterone and DHEA levels may decline. Experts now recognize the importance of supplementing androgens for women who are deficient.
While women have benefited from therapy with estrogens, progesterone, and androgens that are “chemically identical” to the hormones produced naturally by the human body, researchers and health care professionals realize that this is just the “tip of the iceberg” when it comes to achieving hormonal balance. Thyroid and adrenal function, as well as nutritional status, should also be evaluated and treated when indicated.
Women Prefer Natural Hormones
Reflecting on studies, including research by the Mayo Clinic, women have shown a preference for natural micronized progesterone over synthetic alternatives due to its efficacy in enhancing quality of life and managing menopausal symptoms more effectively. At Pace Pharmacy, we prioritize natural hormones in our HRT solutions, aligning with the body’s innate chemistry to ensure optimal health outcomes.
What Does Bioidentical Hormone Therapy Do?
Hormone therapy plays a pivotal role in managing the myriad of symptoms associated with menopause, from hot flashes to mood swings. By supplementing estrogen, progesterone, and androgens like DHEA and testosterone, BHRT can alleviate menopausal symptoms, improve vaginal health, and bolster bone, skin, and muscle integrity. Our approach ensures that each woman receives the hormones in doses and methods most suited to her body’s needs, maximizing benefits while minimizing risks.
What Hormones Are Prescribed for Menopause?
BHRT includes natural estrogen and progesterone, preferred for their compatibility with the human body and reduced side effects compared to synthetic alternatives. Estrogen is key for relieving menopausal symptoms, while progesterone counters estrogen dominance, often seen in perimenopausal women. We also recognize the importance of androgens in maintaining libido, skin, bone, and muscle health, supplementing these hormones when levels decline.
Can a Pharmacist Prescribe Hormone Replacement Therapy?
While pharmacists at Pace Pharmacy play a critical role in formulating and dispensing your BHRT, prescribing is done in collaboration with healthcare providers. Our team works closely with your practitioner to ensure that your BHRT plan is safe, effective, and tailored to your health profile.
Personalized Hormone Therapy at Pace Pharmacy
Every woman’s journey through menopause is unique, necessitating a personalized approach to hormone therapy. Our compounding pharmacists are experts in customizing hormone therapy to meet individual needs, considering medical history, family history, and lifestyle. We strive to ensure that each woman achieves hormonal balance and an improved quality of life through our specialized BHRT services.
Contact us today at Pace Pharmacy to explore how our Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) for Women can support your health and well-being throughout menopause and beyond.
FAQs on BHRT
How do you know if a woman needs hormone therapy?
Symptoms of hormonal imbalance and thorough hormone level testing guide the necessity for BHRT.
When should a woman start hormone therapy?
The timing varies, with some starting at the onset of menopause symptoms, while others may begin as preventive therapy.
What are the symptoms of hormonal imbalance?
Symptoms can range from hot flashes and sleep disturbances to mood changes and decreased sexual desire.
Is BHRT covered by OHIP?
Coverage varies, and we recommend consulting with your healthcare provider and insurance to understand your benefits.
