Hormones are essential signaling molecules in the body that regulate many processes including metabolism, growth, reproduction, and tissue function. As we age, hormone levels naturally fluctuate and decline, contributing to symptoms like fatigue, low libido, weight gain, and difficulty sleeping. Hormone therapy can help replenish hormones to alleviate deficiency symptoms and promote overall health.
The major hormones that decrease with age and are commonly supplemented include:
Restoring optimal hormone concentrations through replacement therapy under medical supervision can provide wide-ranging benefits:
- Alleviates disruptive menopausal symptoms in women including hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and emotional changes - Improves energy levels and motivation; counteracts fatigue - Enhances sex drive and sexual function - Helps achieve/maintain healthy body weight - Stabilizes mood, relieves anxiety and depression
- Strengthens bones, reducing fracture risk - Reduces risk factors for diabetes and cardiovascular disease - Preserves strength and physical function into older age - May improve cognitive function and memory - Promotes overall feelings of wellbeing; improves quality of life
Comprehensive hormone testing is crucial because needs and deficiencies vary substantially between individuals. blood, saliva or urine samples may be analyzed to determine levels of key hormones. Expert physicians then develop customized treatment plans that may include:
Dosages and combinations of hormones are carefully adjusted in response to follow-up tests and feedback on symptom changes. Lifestyle factors like nutrition, stress management and exercise are also addressed to create a comprehensive program.
I aimed to provide an overview of the purpose and processes of hormone replacement therapy focused on health promotion rather than specific clinics, physicians or locations. Please let me know if you would like me to modify or expand my response in any way.
Hormone therapy can help transgender individuals align their physical characteristics with their gender identity. Studies show that access to gender-affirming care improves mental health outcomes and lowers rates of anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation in this population.