BHRT
(Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy)
What is BHRT?
BHRT stands for ‘bio-identical hormone replacement therapy’, which means these hormones being given are identical in chemical structure to what your body produces. BHRT are different than more mainstream synthetic hormones such as conjugated estrogens (Premarin) or progestins (medroxyprogesterone). These bio-identical hormones do not carry the same risks and side effect profile seen with the synthetic hormones.
Routes of Administration for Bio-Identical Hormones
BHRT can be administered orally, topically (trans-dermally), vaginally, as a pellet, or as an inter muscular (IM) injection.
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Dr. Rodriguez uses a unique mixture of topical, oral, and vaginal applications. Although there are many approaches to administering hormones, based on the research and her clinical experience, she is able to achieve results while being as safe and conservative as possible.
Who is a Candidate for BHRT?
Every woman will experiences peri-menouase (the transitional period going from having a monthly menses to no longer ovulating and having a menstrual cycle). My goal is to help everyone woman go through this transition as smoothly as possible while maintaining their health and well-being.
During this peri-menopausal phase many women experience symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, weight gain, insomnia, low libido and vaginal dryness. Although you may have heard these symptoms are a “normal part of the aging process” they don’t have to be! Not only can balancing these hormones relieve the woman of these life disturbing symptoms, they have also been shown to be beneficial to the longevity of their brain, heart, and bones.
BHRT under Dr. Rodriguez’s Care
Dr. Rodriguez specializes in hormone balancing and hormone replacement therapy. Her care is comprehensive and unique to each patient with extensive hormone testing via blood, urine, and/or saliva. She understands just how debilitating peri-menopause symptoms can be and has dedicated much of her training to learning the intricacies of hormone balancing. She meets with her patients more often than conventional medicine (every 6 weeks as necessary compared to every 6-12 months for conventional medicine).
STEP 1 / Initial Consult:
During this time you will have the opportunity to express the symptoms you are experiencing and Dr. Rodriguez will be able to get a deep understanding of your health concerns and perform any physical exams necessary. Lab work for baseline hormones will be ordered.
STEP 2 / 1st Follow Up:
Lab results will be thoroughly reviewed with you and BHRT will be prescribed based on your individualized needs. Hormones most commonly come from Great Earth Compounding Pharmacy and will be shipped directly to you.
STEP 3 / 6-week Blood Work Check-In:
6 weeks after you have been on your hormones you will get your blood drawn to have your levels checked and see how your body has responded to the hormones.
STEP 4 / 2nd Follow Up:
1 week after you have had your blood drawn you will meet with Dr. Rodriguez to see how you are responding to the hormones and make adjustments if necessary. If you are feeling great then you are good to go until your annual or semi-annual check in.
STEP 5 / Additional Follow-Ups (as needed):
If at any point you are not feeling your best, Dr. Rodriguez will meet with you again to make adjustments necessary.
STEP 6 / Annual Follow Up to Check-In:
Most patients that are thriving with BHRT like to check-in every 6 months because they know hormones are always changing but once your hormones are balanced you can go 12 months before checking in with Dr. Rodriguez.