Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) an Overview
Hormone levels, such as testosterone, play a vital role in helping us to function optimally. As men age, testosterone production declines, often causing a variety of symptoms such as fatigue, decreased sex drive, muscle loss, erectile dysfunction, unexplained weight gain and even low mood or depression.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Pellet Therapy (BHRT) is a safe and effective treatment for those seeking to alleviate the symptoms of Testosterone Deficiency and renew their vitality and sexual health.
What Are Bioidentical Hormones?
Bioidentical hormones, such as testosterone pellets, are derived from natural sources such as yams and are compounded to be a very close molecular match to the hormones inside the human body. Because Bioidentical Hormones are custom formulated, there is greater dosage flexibility for use in Hormone Replacement Pellet Therapy, allowing for more individualized, customized treatment plans that provide superior results for patients.
By contrast, Synthetic Hormones are often derived from animals and combined with chemicals to create a hormone that is similar, but not exactly like human hormones. Synthetic hormones are available in only a few dosage options, making it challenging to achieve superior results when performing Hormone Replacement Pellet Therapy.
What is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) for Men?
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) is the use of natural, Bioidentical Pellets to treat and restore hormonal balance within the human body. For men, BHRT uses bioidentical testosterone pellets to help reverse the symptoms caused by testosterone deficiency and restore a patient’s wellbeing, sexual health and performance. BHRT can improve energy levels, decrease body fat, increase muscle mass, and enhance sexual stimulation.
What Are the Side Effects or Risks of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Men receiving BHRT treatment may experience minor side effects as their bodies begin to adjust to the Bioidentical Hormones. The most common side effect that patients have reported is mild acne, easily treated with topical over-the-counter medication. Bio-identical hormones are relatively safe to use, but as it is with any treatment, there can be increased risk for other conditions. A consultation with a urologist is recommended to determine if BHRT is right for you.
How Much does Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Cost?
The cost of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy is typically not covered by insurance. However, an initial consultation with your urologist and the blood work required to determine hormonal levels, is typically covered by insurance.
Our Approach to Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
Dr. Steinberg offers an individualized, comprehensive approach to BHRT for his patients. He is well-versed and experienced in treating Low Testosterone with BHRT.
While there are several delivery options of Testosterone Replacement Therapy, such as testosterone transdermal creams, gels, injections, and pellets, Dr. Steinberg believes the benefits of Bioidentical Testosterone Pellet Therapy make this delivery option the best choice for most patients.
Of course, each individual patient’s medical history, lifestyle and preferences may dictate the most appropriate treatment for them. If a patient chooses to explore hormone replacement therapy, Dr. Steinberg takes extensive time explaining Testosterone Deficiency and Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, including the benefits, risks and potential misconceptions.
Dr. Steinberg is one of a few urologists trained in Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy in the Boston area.
To learn more about BHRT and see if you are a candidate for treatment, schedule an evaluation with Men’s Health specialist Dr. Jeffrey Steinberg in his Milford, MA office at (508) 473-6333.
