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Hormones play a crucial role in regulating nearly every system in the body, from metabolism and mood to sexual health and bone strength. Hormone production naturally declines with age, but rates of decline vary according to genetic factors, environmental influences and comorbid conditions. For women, perimenopause and menopause are typically associated with more rapid declines in estrogen, progesterone and testosterone levels, while men more often gradually experience a decline in testosterone over time. About 25% of men are already experiencing decline in testosterone levels by age 30. Women can begin to experience hormonal shifts in their 30s with menopause onset typically occurring in the late 40s. These hormone declines can lead to significant symptoms. Women often experience hot flashes, fatigue, weight gain, memory lapses, insomnia, mood swings, and decreased libido. Men may experience depression, erectile dysfunction, loss of libido, fatigue, weight gain, brain fog and decreased energy. The lesser discussed, but more important consequence of hormone decline involves a significantly increased risk for heart disease, osteoporosis, dementia, insulin resistance and high cholesterol when hormones are not replaced to optimal levels.
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) offers a more natural alternative to traditional synthetic hormone treatments, with the potential for better compatibility and fewer side effects. But what exactly is BHRT, how does it work, and who is a candidate?
What are Bioidentical Hormones?
The term bioidentical refers to hormones that have the same molecular structure as the hormones naturally produced in the human body. They are typically derived from plant sources such as soy or yams and then processed in a lab to become chemically identical to human estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone. Because the structure of these hormones mirrors what the body makes, they bind to hormone receptors in the same way as naturally occurring hormones. In comparison, synthetic hormones are “artificial” and are known to elicit an inflammatory response from the body. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy mimics the body’s natural response to provide effective symptom relief with a profile that may be better tolerated than some traditional synthetic options.
Forms of BHRT
Bioidentical hormones are available in a variety of forms, including:
• Creams applied to the skin
• Pills or capsules taken orally
• Injections given subcutaneously (injected into the
fat tissue)
• Vaginal preparations
Why Patients Seek BHRT
Common reasons patients consider BHRT include:
• Menopausal/perimenopausal symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, vaginal dryness)
• Menstrual irregularities
• Andropause or age-related testosterone decline in men
• Low libido and sexual dysfunction
• Chronic fatigue, sleep disturbances, or brain fog
• Inability to lose weight/weight gain
• Concerns about bone density loss and osteoporosis
Benefits of BHRT
When appropriately prescribed and monitored, BHRT may offer significant improvements for people struggling with hormone-related symptoms. Some benefits may include:
• Reduced hot flashes and night sweats
• Improved mood stability and reduced anxiety
• Better sleep quality
• Improved metabolism
• Enhanced libido and sexual function
• Increased energy and concentration
• Decreased risk of cardiac disease
• Improved lipid profile
• Improved insulin sensitivity
• Protection against bone density loss
Why Choose Optimize U
Optimize U Ocala is a clinic that specializes in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy in both men and women. It is part of a network of 36 clinics across the United States. The clinic prides itself on a patient-centered approach, evidence-based practice and excellent customer service. Patients benefit from not only the knowledge at the Ocala clinic, but that of the Optimize U provider network, which includes a full-time PhD researcher.
Patients notice a difference from the time they walk into the door at Optimize U Ocala. They are personally greeted by the clinic nurse and enjoy the “no waiting” policy. They may enjoy a free recovery service in lieu of waiting in the lobby. Patients may receive on-site lab draws. Consultations with our provider are always free.
Patients may either have labs drawn and do a consult or come in for a free consult prior to labs. The provider then meets with the patient to review lab findings and discuss symptoms at an in-depth level they have not previously experienced. Thereafter, an individualized plan of care is developed. Patients pay a monthly membership fee to receive their bioidentical hormones, but this also includes all labs, provider visits and a limited number of recovery services. Patients are never charged for routine labs, provider visits, medication dose adjustments or lab supplies. Patients may choose from recovery services such as full-body red light, cold plunge, infrared sauna, mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy, compression and PEMF. The clinic also offers additional services such as weight loss, NAD+, peptides, IVs and vitamin injections.
Additional Considerations
Prior to starting any BHRT regimen, each patient requires a consult with a licensed provider to ensure there are no contraindications for treatment. Risks, benefits and potential positive outcomes are reviewed on an individualized basis during each consult.
352-355-3066
optimizeucenters.com
7502 SW 60th Ave Suite B Ocala, FL 34476
