BHRT
Hormones play critical roles in nearly every bodily function, from metabolism and mood to sexual health and cognition. When your hormones fall out of balance, the effects can ripple through your entire system. Traditional medicine might treat these symptoms individually, while overlooking the underlying hormonal imbalance that ties them all together.
This is what makes us different. Our functional medicine approach doesn’t stop at simply masking your symptoms. We dig deeper. We look at your fatigue, weight gain, mood swings or loss of libido not as isolated issues, but as potential signs of a fundamental imbalance in your body.
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) may be the key to reclaiming your vitality. At Larimar Med St. Charles, IL, we specialize in providing personalized BHRT treatments as part of a comprehensive health strategy to help you achieve lasting wellness from the inside out.
CALL (630) 762-9864 to Schedule a Consultation or Appointment
What Is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy?
BHRT gives your body the tools it needs to function at its best, naturally.
Throughout our lives, our bodies produce and replace hormones — but their ability to do this efficiently is not unlimited. It decreases as we age, and with that change comes a cascade of symptoms that can affect our physical health, mental health and sexual health.
BHRT uses hormones that are molecularly identical to those your body naturally produces to supplement your hormone levels. This means they fit precisely into your body’s hormone receptors, mimicking the function of your own hormones to keep you looking and feeling younger.
The hormones we might address with BHRT include:
- Estrogen and progesterone — crucial for women’s reproductive health and overall well-being
- Testosterone — important for both men and women in maintaining muscle mass, bone density and libido
- Thyroid hormones — regulators of metabolism and energy levels
- DHEA — a precursor to other hormones that support immune function and stress response
How Does BHRT Differ From Traditional Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Conventional hormone replacement therapy uses synthetic hormones that are similar, but not identical, to the hormones naturally produced in the human body. This may lead to a less natural interaction with the body’s systems and more side effects.
Bioidentical hormones are derived from plant sources yet chemically identical to human hormones. This closer match to your natural hormones may result in better tolerance, and many patients report fewer side effects.
BHRT is also appealing because of its natural quality, and because it gives us more control over the doses. HRT comes in standard doses, which means there is less opportunity to customize the treatment to suit your needs.
Benefits of BHRT
Relief from Menopause and Andropause Symptoms
BHRT can alleviate many of the uncomfortable symptoms associated with these transitional phases. For women experiencing menopause, BHRT can reduce hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal dryness. Men going through andropause may find relief from symptoms like decreased libido, erectile dysfunction and loss of muscle mass.Improved Energy Levels and Vitality
“Slowing down” doesn’t have to be a consequence of getting older. Many patients report feeling more vibrant and alive after starting BHRT, with increased stamina for daily activities and exercise. This renewed energy can have a positive impact on many aspects of your life, from work performance to personal relationships.Enhanced Mental Clarity and Focus
Hormonal imbalances often lead to cognitive fog and difficulty concentrating. Many patients who come to our clinic list forgetfulness, lack of focus and irritability as reasons why they want to get their hormones in check. BHRT can help sharpen mental acuity for improved focus, memory, productivity and overall cognitive function.Better Sleep Quality
Hormonal fluctuations can wreak havoc on your sleep patterns. Your body temperature may shift dramatically overnight, causing hot flashes and night sweats that make it impossible to get the rest you need for optimal performance. BHRT may help regulate these symptoms and your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle so you can enjoy more restorative sleep.Increased Libido and Sexual Function
Both men and women can experience a decline in sexual desire and function due to hormonal changes. Does getting older mean accepting a dead bedroom? Absolutely not! BHRT can reignite your sex life by boosting libido and addressing issues like erectile dysfunction, pain during intercourse or vaginal dryness.Improved Mood and Reduced Risk of Depression
Hormones play a crucial role in regulating your mood and emotional well-being. When we balance your hormones with BHRT, you may notice that your emotions are more stable and you have a more positive outlook. Hormone therapy can also help alleviate symptoms of mood disorders like depression and anxiety.Maintenance of Muscle Mass and Bone Density
We naturally lose muscle mass and bone density as we get older. BHRT can help maintain your muscle strength and bone health to reduce your risk of fractures, osteoporosis and other challenges your musculoskeletal system faces with age. Our body contouring services and DEXA body scan technology offer further support in this area.Weight Management
Hormonal imbalances can make it hard to maintain a healthy weight. By optimizing hormone levels, BHRT can support metabolism and regulate body composition. Ask about our weight loss plans if you want a comprehensive and personalized strategy for reaching and maintaining your desired weight.Potential Cardiovascular Benefits
Hormone therapy may offer cardiovascular benefits, particularly for women. A Cedars-Sinai study found that women undergoing HRT had lower levels of atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries) than women who were not. Women using hormone replacement therapy were also more likely to see longevity benefits.Skin Health and Appearance Improvements
Hormone deficiencies can contribute to skin aging in both men and women, with symptoms including thinner skin, decreased firmness and elasticity, increased dryness and more prominent lines. After starting BHRT, many patients report a more youthful, radiant complexion. We offer a variety of nonsurgical cosmetic treatments that can enhance these results.Frequently Asked Questions About BHRT
- Persistent fatigue or low energy levels
- Mood swings, irritability or depression
- Decreased libido or sexual dysfunction
- Hot flashes or night sweats
- Difficulty concentrating or memory issues
- Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Insomnia or poor sleep quality
- Muscle weakness or loss of muscle mass
- Thinning hair or skin changes
- For women: Many women start considering BHRT during perimenopause, which typically begins in their 40s (but may occur earlier).
- For men: Testosterone levels generally start to decline after age 30, but noticeable symptoms of low testosterone might not appear until the 40s or 50s.
- Younger individuals: In some cases, younger adults who experience hormonal imbalances due to health conditions could benefit from BHRT.
- Creams or Gels: Applied topically, allowing for gradual absorption through the skin
- Pills or Capsules: Taken orally in carefully measured doses
- Pellets: Inserted under the skin for consistent hormone release over several months
- Injections: Administered periodically for more immediate effects
Cookie-cutter treatments are never the answer at Larimar Med. We pride ourselves on delivering a truly unique and comprehensive experience that takes all your needs, goals and preferences into account.
When you come in for your consultation, we perform a comprehensive set of blood tests. These labs provide a detailed picture of your current hormone levels and overall health status.
In addition to these tests, we’ll look at other factors to design your treatment plan:- Symptom evaluation
- Medical history
- Body composition
- Treatment goals
- Acne or oily skin
- Mild fluid retention
- Increased facial hair in women (with testosterone therapy)
- Mood swings
- Initial improvements in sleep and energy levels within the first few weeks
- Mood stabilization and cognitive improvements within one to three months
- Changes in physical symptoms like hot flashes or muscle mass over three to six months
- IV therapy for improved nutrient balance and hydration
- Weight loss programs for comprehensive body composition improvement
- Aesthetic treatments for skin rejuvenation
- Biohacking treatments to support longevity and energy
- Spa services just because you deserve it!
- One-on-one individual consultations
- Telehealth options
- Direct provider cell phone access for urgent concerns
- Quick start treatment plans to help you begin your journey to wellness sooner
- Accurately interpret your comprehensive blood tests and hormone panels
- Precisely calibrate your dosage for optimal results
- Monitor and adjust your treatment with a keen eye for detail
- Understand the potential interactions between BHRT and any other medications or supplements you use
- See the “big picture” of your health and treat imbalances holistically
Restore Your Health From the Inside Out
Whether you’re in your 30s or your 70s, if you’re experiencing symptoms of hormonal imbalance, we encourage you to reach out to Larimar Med. We will design a personalized BHRT plan that addresses your needs and integrates seamlessly with your nutrition plan, exercise routine and other aspects of your health regimen.
Call us at 630-762-9864 to find out if BHRT in St. Charles, IL, can help you. You can also request an appointment using our convenient online system.