Hormones act as chemical messengers throughout your body, and they influence your energy, sleep, mood, and skin. Their levels shift with age and health changes. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) supplements specific hormones when your body produces less than it needs. Here is more information on the science behind HRT and its uses:
Using Bioidentical Hormones
Bioidentical hormones are lab-made hormones that match the molecular structure of hormones your body makes. Examples of those used in hormone replacement therapy include progesterone and testosterone. Some come from plant compounds, but a lab converts them into their final form. Your body processes them through the same pathways it uses for natural hormones.
Your cells have receptors for each hormone, and these receptors respond to a specific molecular shape. Since bioidentical hormones share that shape, your receptors recognize them like your own hormones. This matching structure separates them from some synthetic hormones. Synthetic versions may differ slightly in structure, and your body may process them differently.
Bioidentical hormones come in several forms. After your provider reviews your lab results, they may suggest creams, pills, patches, or pellets. Each form absorbs at a different rate, so dosing differs between methods. FDA-approved and compounded versions both exist, and your provider can explain the differences.
Supplementing a Natural Balance
As you age, your ovaries or testes gradually produce less estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone. Thyroid and adrenal hormones also shift over time, and stress affects them too. HRT aims to bring low levels back into a typical range. Common signs of low hormone levels include the following:
- Hot flashes or night sweats
- Hard time sleeping
- Low energy or brain fog
- Dry, thinner skin
- Low sex drive
Aiding Weight Loss
Hormones help control appetite, fat storage, and metabolism, so imbalances may affect your weight. Low estrogen often shifts fat storage toward the abdomen. When testosterone drops, your body may lose muscle and burn fewer calories at rest. Thyroid hormone also sets your metabolic rate.
HRT does not replace diet, exercise, or sleep, though balanced hormones may support those efforts. Some patients notice changes in cravings or energy, but results differ from person to person. Your provider will track your progress through follow-up labs. Your plan may change over time, and your dose may change with it.
Addressing Thyroids and PCOS
Thyroid conditions and PCOS involve different hormone pathways. When your thyroid is underactive, your provider may prescribe a similar thyroid hormone. PCOS often raises androgen levels, and it frequently affects insulin and cycle regularity. Since these conditions overlap with other hormone issues, testing typically includes several markers:
- TSH, free T3, and free T4 for thyroid function
- Testosterone and DHEA-S for androgen levels
- Insulin and glucose for metabolic health
- Estradiol and progesterone for cycle health
Schedule Hormone Replacement Therapy
HRT starts with a consultation and a full lab panel. Before you book, write down your symptoms, current medications, and health history. Bring your list to the visit, and ask your provider about risks, side effects, and follow-up timing. Contact a med spa near you to schedule your hormone replacement therapy consultation.
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