Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
for Women
What is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
As we age our hormone levels change which can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) replenishes the hormones your body needs to function to its fullest. BHRT utilizes medications that have the same chemical formula as those made naturally in the body. They are referred to as “bio-identical” hormones and are chemically identical to human hormones. An imbalance in hormones can cause fatigue, sleep problems, depression, low sex drive and more.
Synthetic vs Bioidentical Hormones
Conventional hormone replacement uses estrogens derived from the urine of pregnant horses and conventional progestin is a synthetic hormone. Since the chemical composition of these conventional hormones is different from the hormones produced naturally, they remain structurally foreign to the human body. This is the major cause of several undesirable side effects. These are also the hormones referred to in the large Women’s Health Initiative Study.
Integrative Medicine BHRT
Dr. Dersam is a current fellow in Metabolic and Nutritional Medicine at the American Academy of Anti-aging Medicine founded by world renowned expert in Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, Pamela W. Smith, M.D. This training allows her to provide the most comprehensive and responsible hormone treatment recommendations for her patients. The fellowship consists of an in-depth analysis of human endocrine functions, interactions between all hormones and current research in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy.
Because an imbalance in one area will affect the levels of hormones in other areas, Dr. Dersam will address other endocrine organs such as the thyroid and adrenal glands. She will design treatment recommendations with these other organs in mind so that you feel your absolute best.
Dr. Dersam’s goal is to balance hormones and tailor dosing to your specific needs. This is done through initial lab testing to determine your baseline hormone levels and rule out possible risk factors such as blood clotting disorders and tumor markers. Based on your lab results, she will customize a compound of appropriate bio-identical hormones. Since every body’s needs are different, Dr. Dersam will recheck your hormone levels through saliva and/or urine testing to optimize your treatment, monitor breakdown products and ensure the lowest possible dose to relieve your symptoms.
Benefits of BHRT
- Increased energy and stamina
- More restful sleep
- Improved sex drive
- Hot flash relief
- Improved complexion
- Weight loss
- Overall better sense of well-being
What’s Included in the Package
- Initial Consultation – Dr. Dersam will do a comprehensive review of your health history and go over the BHRT treatment plan
- Follow up at 2-4 weeks – Review of blood hormone levels plus initiation of therapy. Labs to also include thyroid panel, lipid panel, metabolic panel, blood count, inherited markers for disease, blood clotting disorders and tumor markers as needed based on family and/or personal history
- Follow up at 3 months – Dr. Dersam will review salivary hormone lab results and alter your therapy accordingly
- Follow up at 6 months – Dr. Dersam will again review salivary hormone lab results and alter your therapy accordingly. Further follow ups will be discussed at this time if needed
*Visits with Dr. Dersam need to be within a year
How Do I Get Started?
Getting started with BHRT is simple. To set up your first appointment call 480-621-8638 or send us a message by clicking on the link below and we will reach out to you shortly.
Dr. Dersam and her Integrative Medicine team will work with you to uncover any hormone imbalances you may have and create a treatment plan tailored to your body that will have you feeling like yourself again.