As we age, our bodies go through a lot of changes. We might not feel as strong or as energetic as we used to. Our skin might start to wrinkle and sag. And our hormones can change, too. We can feel more sluggish, anxious, and depressed due to hormone imbalances, leading us to feel more down or foggy. But with hormone replacement therapy, offered here at MKE Aesthetics & Wellness in Wauwatosa, WI, a series of treatments can be administered to restore wellness and vitality.
What Is Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the use of synthetic or natural hormones to supplement the levels of hormones that are naturally produced in the body. In women, HRT is most commonly used to treat menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness, but it can also be used to treat other conditions, such as osteoporosis. In men, it is commonly used to treat a drop in testosterone that can lead to erectile dysfunction.
During hormone therapy, a person takes hormones that are similar to the ones their body naturally produces. The hormones can be taken in the form of pills, patches, gels, or injections. They help to reduce the effects of menopause and make the transition smoother. There are two main types of hormone replacement therapy: systemic and local. Systemic involves taking hormones by mouth or through a skin patch, while local self-administers hormones directly into the sensitive region.
What Are the Different Types of HRT?
Peptides
Peptide therapy is a type of hormone replacement therapy that uses synthetic peptides to replace the hormones that are no longer being produced by the body. Peptides are short chains of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, and they can mimic the function of hormones in the body. In this treatment, they are injected directly into the bloodsteam using a needle. In general, most people will require at least a few peptide injections in order to see benefits. Sessions generally take around 30 minutes.
Before starting the injection, your practitioner will clean the area where the needle will go in with an antiseptic solution. They may apply a numbing cream to minimize your discomfort. Once the area is clean and prepped, they will insert the needle into your skin and inject the peptide solution. Many patients report that, due to the needle being so fine, they cannot feel the injection. After injecting the peptide solution, your practitioner will remove the needle and apply a bandage to the injection site, if needed.
Pellet Therapy
Pellet therapy is a hormone balancing technique that uses pellets to deliver hormones into the body. A pellet is put just under the skin, usually in the buttock region, where it releases hormones slowly over several months. It can take up to three days after insertion to notice results. Hormone pellets are often used to treat conditions such as menopause, hypogonadism, and andropause. Pellets are made from hormones that are derived from plants or animals, and they are typically made from testosterone or estrogen.
A Combination
Of course, everyone is different, which is why we will first meet with a patient in an initial consultation and get to know their specific concerns. We’ll test your hormone levels and take into account things like your gender, age, and lifestyle. We will then draw you up a treatment plan and decide which treatments will work best for you, or if a combination of treatments will be ideal to achieve the optimal results. We may suggest any of the above options, or perhaps patches, pills, or vitamin injections into the bloodstream.
What Are the Benefits of This Treatment?
There are several potential benefits associated with hormone replacement therapy. One of the most significant is the relief of menopausal symptoms in women, such as hot flashes and night sweats. Additionally, HRT can also help to reduce the risk of osteoporosis and improve bone density. Additionally, HRT may also provide some protection against heart disease and stroke. Treatment can increase women’s sexual wellness and a woman’s sex drive, particularly when she’s going through menopause.
There are several benefits of hormone replacement therapy for men. It can improve energy levels, libido, and mental clarity. Additionally, HRT can help to preserve muscle mass, bone density, and heart health. Erectile dysfunction, while perfectly normal, can often lead to anxiety, plus other intimacy problems such as a lack of closeness or emotional connection to a partner. With this sexual rejuvenation treatment, patients can enjoy emotional and mental relief in their relationships.
Why Do Our Hormones Change As We Age?
For women, menopause is the time when hormone levels drop and they stop menstruating. What causes these changes? Women’s bodies produce less of the hormones estrogen and progesterone as they age. Estrogen helps keep the bones strong and the skin elastic. Progesterone helps prepare the lining of the uterus for pregnancy. So when these hormone levels drop, they generally start to experience some changes. Hormone replacement therapy for women can help mitigate some of these changes.
The primary reason why men’s hormones change as they age is due to a decrease in testosterone production. Testosterone is the hormone responsible for many of the physical and sexual characteristics that are typically associated with males, such as muscle mass and strength, facial and body hair, and a deep voice. As men age, their bodies produce less testosterone, which can lead to a number of changes, such as reduced muscle mass and strength, decreased libido, and erectile dysfunction.
Enjoy Balanced Hormones and a Renewed Sense of Self With HRT
If you’ve been struggling with decreased libido, low energy, brain fog, or anything else that may be the cause of hormone imbalances, these treatments may be right for you. The decision to start hormone replacement therapy should be made after careful consideration and discussion with a healthcare provider. Luckily, our expert team can come up with a tailored treatment that can work to remedy your specific concerns and suit your lifestyle. To get started, schedule your consultation with MKE Aesthetics & Wellness in Wauwatosa, WI, today.
