Seven Questions to Ask Before You Try HRT
#1. Is there a difference between synthetic and bioidentical hormones?
Synthetic hormones are similar to what your body produces naturally, but they are not an exact copy. Unfortunately, these small molecular differences have negative consequences relative to how synthetic hormones work in the human body. In other words, they can damage your health.
Bioidentical hormones, on the other hand, are identical to the hormones your body produces naturally. Because bioidentical hormone molecules fit perfectly into your body’s hormone receptors, they do not cause the side effects and complications that synthetic hormones are known for. In other words, they function within your body like your body’s natural hormones.
At Renew Youth, we only use bioidentical hormones in our treatment regimens…never synthetic.
#2. Is hormone replacement therapy covered by insurance?
Insurance coverage for hormone therapy varies by gender and insurance provider.
While some policies may cover some portion of hormone therapy, the protocols that are covered by insurance are almost always incomplete and/or outdated.
People who want comprehensive and safe treatment based upon best practice and the latest research will usually have to pay for their treatment out-of-pocket.
We strongly encourage people to set the insurance dilemma aside when selecting a hormone replacement provider. If the treatment you’re seeking is based upon current best practice and is customized to your needs, it’s likely that all or most of your costs will not be covered by insurance.
We feel it’s better to focus on finding a provider who is a good fit for you relative to your treatment goals. Our advice is to ask a lot of questions. If you’re speaking with a prospective provider who either can’t answer your questions, or won’t take the time to do so, that should be a red flag. Move on and find someone else.
All of that said, out-of-pocket healthcare expenses can be difficult to accept when most people invest significant sums each month on health insurance premiums. And yet…those who want to focus on prevention when it comes to their healthcare may have to do just that. We encourage our clients to compartmentalize the way they approach their healthcare dollars this way:
Use your insurance and its associated providers for day-to-day healthcare needs like a sinus infection or a skin rash, and for the things you hope never happen, like appendicitis or a broken arm. Meanwhile, most people will have to budget separately for more cutting-edge preventative care like bioidentical hormone replacement and other anti-aging therapies.
#3. When should I begin BHRT?
The short answer is…the sooner the better. In other words, before the appearance of significant symptoms. For women and men alike, this is typically during the late 30s or during the 40s; but it can be earlier for some people and later for others.
Lab testing is the most reliable way to confirm the status of your hormones. This is why we start by ordering comprehensive lab work for all new Renew Youth clients.
#4. What kinds of symptoms can be treated with BHRT?
The following are a few of the more common symptoms associated with hormone imbalances that can likewise be addressed with comprehensive BHRT:
- Fatigue
- Weight gain (particularly around the midsection)
- Mood issues (like depression, irritability, anxiety, and mood swings)
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Low sex drive
- Sexual dysfunction
- Brain fog
- Loss of muscle mass
- Insomnia
- Osteoporosis
- Hair loss
Keep in mind that this list is by no means exhaustive. The good news is that to the extent these kinds of symptoms are being caused by a hormone imbalance, BHRT can bring relief and help you to feel like yourself again.
#5. How will my hormone therapy be administered?
At Renew Youth, we do not take a one-size-fits-all approach to hormone therapy. Methods of delivery are customized based upon the hormones prescribed, your unique physiology, and your personal preferences.
All hormones are self-administered in the privacy and comfort of your own home. We provide any and all support needed to ensure that you know how to take your medications correctly.
#6. Is hormone replacement therapy safe?
The following are some factors that distinguish safe hormone therapy from hormone therapy that could compromise your health:
- Safe hormone therapy uses bioidentical hormones only.
- Safe hormone therapy is supervised by a doctor who has expertise in prescribing bioidentical hormones.
- Safe hormone therapy is customized to each person’s unique physiological needs.
- Safe hormone therapy includes routine lab work and close monitoring for symptoms and side effects.
Again, this list is not exhaustive. Prescribing hormone therapy correctly is more nuanced than what most people realize, and it requires expertise to do it properly. At Renew Youth, we only use bioidentical hormones. All treatment is doctor supervised, individualized, and monitored to ensure safety and effectiveness. And we’ve been providing cutting edge treatment to our clients for nearly 25 years.
#7. Does bioidentical hormone therapy really work?
If done properly…yes! Reports of ineffective hormone therapy are usually related to improper treatment practices…which just underscores the importance of working with a provider who has plenty of experience.
At Renew Youth, we have been providing comprehensive BHRT and other anti-aging solutions to countless men and women since 1999.
Call us today at 800-859-7511 or use our convenient contact form to schedule your free 30-minute consultation.
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