Hormone Replacement Therapy for Men

As men age, they typically experience a gradual decrease in testosterone levels, losing around 1% of their body’s total testosterone every year after turning 30. This decline in male hormones can lead to a variety of problems in adult men, and low hormone levels can occur due to several reasons.

However, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has shown to be a successful way for men to address the numerous symptoms of hormonal imbalance. It’s crucial to identify the symptoms of hormonal imbalance, and seek appropriate treatment to enhance energy levels and vitality. Contact Better Way Wellness to learn more about how we can help address your hormonal imbalance symptoms.

What is Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a medical treatment that aims to restore hormone levels in the body to alleviate symptoms or conditions of hormonal imbalance in both men and women. If you are experiencing symptoms such as low testosterone, thyroid dysfunction, sleep disturbances, irritability, and others, you may be a candidate for HRT.

To determine if HRT is right for you, it is important to schedule a consultation with a trained practitioner who specializes in hormone balance. During the consultation, the practitioner will review your medical history, symptoms, and perform lab tests to develop a personalized and comprehensive treatment plan to restore hormone balance and improve your overall health and wellbeing.

Low Testosterone in Men with Better Way Wellness

Do you experience low sex drive, mood swings, or decreased muscle mass? You may be one of the many men affected by low testosterone. At Better Way Wellness, we specialize in helping men achieve optimal hormone balance for their best health.

How Common is Low Testosterone in Men?

Low testosterone in men is more common than you might expect. Many men have low testosterone levels without even knowing it. Experts also debate the definition of what constitutes “low testosterone levels”. Yet, it has been estimated that roughly 4 out of 10 men over the age of 40 have low or diminished levels of testosterone. Don’t let low testosterone hold you back from feeling your best.

Causes of Low T in Men

Low testosterone, also known as hypogonadism, can be caused by a range of factors. Primary hypogonadism is when the testes do not produce adequate amounts of testosterone. Secondary hypogonadism describes low testosterone that occurs as a result of conditions or issues with the pituitary glands. At Better Way Wellness, we offer personalized testing and treatment options to determine the root cause of your low testosterone.

Symptoms of Low T in Men

Low testosterone can result in a wide variety of debilitating symptoms in men, including:

  • low sex drive
  • erectile dysfunction
  • enlarged breast tissue
  • hot flashes
  • increased body fat
  • mood swings
  • decreased muscle mass
  • memory loss

Don’t let these symptoms hold you back from living your best life.

Long Term Health Risks of Low Testosterone in Men

When left untreated, low testosterone can lead to a number of long-term health risks. Men with low testosterone levels are more likely to gain weight and develop weak muscles, leading to cardiovascular issues and an increased risk of diabetes. They may also develop weak bones and osteoporosis, which can lead to fractures. Take control of your health with Better Way Wellness and optimize your testosterone levels for a healthier future.

Are your experiencing symptoms of low testosterone?

Symptoms of Hormone Imbalance in Women

Hormonal imbalances can have a significant impact on women’s health and well-being. Women may experience a range of symptoms related to hormonal imbalances, which can affect them physically and emotionally. These symptoms may include:

Hot flashes: sudden sensations of warmth, often accompanied by sweating and reddening of the skin.
Night sweats: excessive sweating during the night, which can disrupt sleep and lead to feelings of fatigue and tiredness.
Hair loss: thinning of hair or hair loss can be a sign of hormonal imbalances.
Vaginal dryness: a lack of natural lubrication can cause discomfort, itching, or pain during sex.
Anxiety: excessive worry or fear, which can lead to nervousness, restlessness, and difficulty concentrating.
Depression: a persistent feeling of sadness, hopelessness, or worthlessness, which can affect daily life.
Irregular periods: changes in the menstrual cycle, such as missed periods or heavy bleeding.
Brain fog: difficulty with concentration, memory, and other cognitive functions.
Weight gain: difficulty losing weight or gaining weight unexpectedly.
Low energy: feeling fatigued or lacking in energy, even after getting enough sleep.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can be caused by other factors, and that not all women will experience them. If you suspect that you may have a hormonal imbalance, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider. They can help determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include hormone therapy.

Symptoms of Hormone Imbalance in Men

Hormone imbalances in men are often caused by low testosterone. These imbalances can occur in mid-life or earlier. Below is a short list of symptoms men may experience due to hormonal imbalance:

Low sex drive: a decreased desire for sexual activity.
Muscle loss: a decrease in muscle mass, strength, and endurance.
Hair loss: thinning of hair or hair falling out in larger than usual amounts.
Erectile dysfunction: difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.
Night sweats: excessive sweating during sleep that can lead to discomfort and insomnia.
Fatigue: feeling tired, weak, or lacking in energy.
Irritability: easily becoming annoyed or angry, often leading to mood swings.
Mood swings: abrupt and intense changes in emotional state.
Memory loss: difficulty remembering things, often leading to forgetfulness or confusion.

Causes of Hormone Imbalance

Hormone Therapy is a treatment that helps people with hormonal imbalances by providing the body with the hormones it needs. Hormonal imbalances can occur due to various reasons like genetics, health problems such as thyroid dysfunction or issues with the brain. As we age, hormonal imbalances become a natural part of life. Recognizing the symptoms of hormonal imbalances is the first step in determining if you need Hormone Therapy.

Long Term Health Risks of Hormone Imbalance

If left untreated, hormonal imbalances can lead to several long-term health risks. Men who have low testosterone levels may experience weak bones and muscles, along with substantial weight gain. Women with hormonal imbalances may suffer from acne, mood swings, depression, and abnormal hair growth. Furthermore, some women may be at higher risk of developing uterine or other cancers related to feminine organs such as the ovaries or vagina. Both men and women with hormonal imbalances may also face the risk of infertility.

How Is Hormonal Imbalance Diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider can diagnose hormonal imbalances by evaluating your medical history, symptoms, and laboratory results. They may order blood tests to measure hormone levels and identify any imbalances. In some cases, the symptoms may be obvious, such as excess fat distribution in a feminine pattern or unusual hair growth or balding in women, which may indicate a hormonal imbalance. Your provider will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs and hormonal imbalances.

Are you experiencing symptoms of a hormone imbalance?

What are the Different HRT Delivery Methods?

When considering hormone replacement therapy (HRT), it’s important to know that there are several different delivery methods available. At Better Way Wellness, we want to ensure that your treatment is seamless, fits your lifestyle, and achieves optimal results during each treatment cycle.

Creams and Gels

Creams and gels are common HRT methods, but they come with risks such as transferring to others through contact and requiring daily application, which can impact consistent and effective relief. Pills offer precise dosing, but they need to be taken daily and compete with the harsh environment of the gut. Patches provide convenience but may not adhere well when exposed to water or certain fabrics, and the volume of hormone declines towards the end of the treatment cycle, leading to the return of unwanted symptoms. Injections enter the bloodstream directly, but they need to be administered every 7 to 10 days and are associated with discomfort and roller coaster dosing effect.

Pills

While pills provide precise dosing and are convenient to travel with, they have their drawbacks. Since pills have to be taken daily, missing a dose can negatively impact treatment. Moreover, pills have to endure the harsh environment of the gut, which can hinder their effectiveness. While they are designed to be absorbed effectively through the GI tract, they do not offer the same level of consistency as other delivery methods.

Patches

While patches offer the convenience of “set it and forget it,” they may be bulky and not discreet under certain clothing. Additionally, they may not adhere well when in contact with water or certain fabrics, which can impact treatment if the patch falls off. The volume of hormone in the patch also declines towards the end of the treatment cycle, which can lead to the return of unwanted symptoms until a new patch is applied.

Injections

While injections offer highly effective absorption directly into the bloodstream, they must be administered every 7 to 10 days, and skipping or delaying a dose can impact treatment. Injections can also cause a roller coaster dosing effect, where patients may experience a surge of hormones in the days after the injection followed by significant declines each day until the next injection, making symptom relief short-lived. Injections are also associated with discomfort, inflammation, bruising, bleeding, or pain at the injection site.

Pellets

Pellets are considered the preferred method of hormone replacement therapy due to their convenience and effectiveness. They are placed under the skin during a short medical visit and deliver a steady dose of hormone for several months, eliminating the need for daily administration of pills or the inconvenience and discomfort of injections. The steady dosing provided by pellets also most closely mimics the body’s natural secretion of hormones, leading to optimal function and symptom relief.

Experience Balance at Better Way Wellness

If you are experiencing symptoms of hormone imbalance such as fatigue, low sex drive, irritability, anxiety, poor sleep, and more, it’s important to seek professional help. Hormone replacement therapy can be an effective solution when done correctly.

At Better Way Wellness, we offer expertly tailored hormone replacement therapy to help you achieve real, lasting balance. Our practitioners are highly trained in hormone health and will review your lab results, medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle to develop a personalized treatment plan.

Don’t suffer in silence. Contact Better Way Wellness to schedule your appointment and start living your best life.