Bioidentical hormones are identical in molecular structure to the hormones naturally produced in the human body. As we age, hormone levels often decline, leading to unpleasant symptoms. Replacing these hormones can provide relief. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) uses hormones chemically identical to those in the body to supplement declining levels and alleviate deficiency symptoms.
At Harmony Hormone Center in Tumwater, we specialize in customized bioidentical hormone therapy to help patients regain optimal hormone balance. Keep reading to learn the basics of bioidentical hormones and why patients choose Harmony Hormone Center for their hormone health needs.
Declining hormone levels affect people differently, but common symptoms include:
- Hot flashes - Night sweats - Vaginal dryness - Irregular periods - Loss of libido - Weight gain - Fatigue - Mood changes - Sleep disturbances
- Fatigue/low energy - Decreased muscle mass - Weight gain - Low libido - Erectile dysfunction - Depression/irritability
- Fatigue - Weight gain - Hair loss - Cold sensitivity - Constipation - Brain fog/memory loss
Restoring hormones to optimal levels can provide immense relief from uncomfortable symptoms. Patients report benefits such as:
- Reduction in hot flashes/night sweats - Improved sleep - More energy - Balanced mood - Increased libido - Weight loss
- Increased energy/stamina - Improved libido - More muscle mass - Better mood regulation - Clearer thinking - Weight loss
- Higher energy levels - Relief from brain fog - Weight normalization - Warmer body temperature - Regularity restored
In addition to symptom relief, balancing hormones can have anti-aging effects, improve heart health, stabilize blood sugar, and more.
Bioidentical hormones are typically derived from plant sources and are bio-engineered in a lab to be molecularly identical to human hormones. This allows them to fit perfectly into hormone receptors in the body. They metabolize just like the body's own hormones.
Some of the most commonly replaced hormones include:
Progesterone works synergistically with estrogen to regulate menstruation and mitochondrial energy production. Bioidentical progesterone creams help counter estrogen dominance and restore hormone balance.
Testosterone helps maintain muscle mass, bone density, red blood cell production, and sex drive in both men and women. Bioidentical testosterone injections or gels may be appropriate for testosterone deficient patients.
Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism, weight, energy levels and body temperature. Bioidentical T3/T4 thyroid medication can resolve hypothyroid symptoms.
Bioidentical hormones are not necessarily safer or more effective than synthetic hormones for menopausal symptoms. Their chemical structures are identical to hormones made by the body, but small structural differences may not actually change their effects or risks. More research is still needed in this area.
We don’t take a “one size fits all” approach. Customized treatment protocols are created after thoroughly analyzing a patient’s unique hormone panel, health history and symptoms. Ongoing monitoring helps optimize results.
Harmony Hormone Center provides access to specialized compounded bioidentical hormones tailored to each patient’s needs. Compounding allows flexibility in strengths and dosage forms.
We provide integrated care including diet and lifestyle modifications to help patients achieve full vitality. Our practitioners evaluate interactions between hormones, nutrition, stress levels and toxins.
Balancing hormones regulates many body processes involved in aging. Most patients enjoy looking and feeling younger after treatment at Harmony Hormone Center.
Our staff strives to serve as trusted guides throughout each patient’s treatment journey. We understand this process is highly personal and aim to provide caring, individualized support.
The earlier hormone declines are detected and corrected, the more effectively symptoms can be alleviated and health consequences avoided. We encourage adults to proactively monitor hormones by regular testing.
Common reasons patients see their doctor and discover hormone imbalance include:
Treatment should not be delayed when hormone testing confirms suboptimal levels. Restored hormonal balance can prevent progressive health deterioration. It also simply helps people feel better sooner!
Tumwater's mild climate, abundant greenery and proximity to Puget Sound make it an idyllic setting to restore hormone balance. The process of recalibrating the body's chemistry through bioidentical hormones works best when patients can spend time relaxing in nature, getting moderate outdoor exercise, enjoying nutritious regional cuisine and tending to their overall wellbeing. fortunately, Tumwater offers plenty of opportunities for all of the above!
As you embark upon bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, Harmony Hormone Center aims to guide and support you through every aspect of the journey. Here are some of our favorite Tumwater spots and resources we recommend to help patients thrive before, during and after treatment:
- Quest Diagnostics Tumwater – Full hormone panels to uncover imbalances - Evergreen Wellness – Saliva hormone testing for convenience
- Tumwater Falls Park – Scenic trails along the Deschutes River - Black Lake Park – Loop trails circle a peaceful lake - Capitol State Forest – Miles of paths for hiking/biking
- Rivers Edge Studio – Yoga and barre classes - Inspire Fitness – Personal training gym - Pure Barre Olympia – Ballet barre workouts
- Three Magnets Brewery – Locally sourced pub fare & drinks - Valley Café – Farm fresh meals & bakery - Café Moses – Light breakfasts and sandwiches
Please reach out if you are experiencing any symptoms of hormone imbalance or have questions about our bioidentical hormone replacement options. Harmony Hormone Center is here to guide you toward renewed vibrancy!
