The Treatment Process
Testosterone is one of the most-studied hormones, and doctors have long been fascinated by the key role it plays in human health and vitality. Butenandt and Ruzicka were awarded the 1939 Nobel Prize for their purification and discovery of how to synthesize testosterone from common plant cholesterols. Further, there is a plethora of scientific articles – including thousands of high-quality studies from 1940 onward – concerning the benefits and lack of harmful side effects of testosterone.
From this evidence, medical professionals like Dr. Mark E. Richards know that testosterone is essential to the well-being of both men and women. As a leader in this field, Dr. Richards is proficient in the use of bio-identical pellet hormone therapy, which allows patients to experience the advantages of steady, long-lasting sufficient hormone levels. Continue reading or schedule a first-time appointment to learn more about this innovative treatment.
- Hormone Deficiency Symptoms
- Bio-Identical Pellet Hormone Therapy Benefits
- Bio-Identical Pellet Hormone Therapy Treatment Process
What Are the Symptoms of Hormone Deficiency?
A hormone deficiency or imbalance can wreak havoc on the body in many ways. As “chemical messengers”, hormones play a vital role in the regulation of various chemical processes, including growth and development, metabolism, brain and sexual functioning, and even mood.*
While symptoms of hormone imbalance or deficiency can vary, patients frequently report:
- Fatigue
- Fat gain and muscle loss
- Insomnia or poor sleep patterns
- Mood swings, anxiety, and depression
- Symptoms of menopause (including hot flashes, bone loss, sweating, dry skin, etc.)
- Decreased libido
- Hair loss or thinning
- Memory problems and foggy thinking
- Bladder and urination issues
- Vaginal dryness
- Erectile dysfunction
The above merely represents a sample of the phenomena people with hormonal imbalance or deficiency can face. Many of these symptoms are specifically associated with low testosterone, which is essential to the livelihood of both men and women.
What Are the Advantages of Bio-Identical Pellet Hormone Therapy?
Patients with the above issues can benefit from bio-identical pellet hormone therapy. Especially in the hands of an experienced physician, this treatment can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life. Below, Dr. Richards provides a breakdown of the advantages patients can potentially expect from bio-identical pellet hormone therapy.
Physical Advantages
- Improved blood pressure, cardiac function, strength, fat loss, insulin sensitivity, blood sugar control, cholesterol levels, preservation of bone density
- Breast cancer risk regression and protection
- Prostate cancer protection and possible regression
- Nerve protection and repair (both in the brain and body)
- Increased tissue antioxidant levels and decreased inflammation in joints and organs
Mental Advantages
- Improved cognitive function, balance, memory, spatial orientation, sleeping
- Possible protection from Alzheimer’s
Emotional Advantages
- Decreased depression, anxiety, aggression, irritability
- Enhanced friendliness, libido, sense of well-being
In addition, bio-identical hormones are chemically identical to those produced by the human body, unlike traditional hormone replacement therapies. This can lead to better compatibility and fewer side effects. Moreover, bio-identical pellet hormone therapy can be customized to meet each individual’s unique hormonal needs, allowing for a more individualized treatment plan.
How Is Bio-Identical Pellet Hormone Therapy Administered?
Since men and women belong to the same species, the benefits are practically identical in both sexes, but the dosing and overall process differ slightly. After an initial consultation during which you and Dr. Richards discuss your goals and priorities, the rest of the bio-identical pellet hormone therapy experience generally goes as follows:
Treatment Process for Women
Although many are unaware of this important fact, testosterone is just as important in a woman’s functioning as a man’s. However, women typically begin to lose testosterone in their twenties, with a 50% reduction by 40. This sharp drop leads to the concerns discussed earlier. 100% of the estrogen inside our cells is manufactured inside the cells from testosterone. Thus, a testosterone deficiency is the cause of our body’s estrogen deficiency. Thankfully, Dr. Richards has successfully treated countless women with bio-identical testosterone pellets.
Hormone pellet insertion involves a minor procedure, which requires the use of a local anesthetic. Through a two- to three-millimeter insertion site in the skin over the fat pad just above your buttock, Dr. Richards will insert the pellet using a tiny metal tube. Your post-pellet insertion progress will be monitored through symptom resolution and blood work over the following few months. Women often notice improvements within the first month. In most cases, Dr. Richards advises women to return for follow-up insertions about every three months
Treatment Process for Men
Bio-identical pellet hormone therapy can also improve a man’s health in several ways. Men lose testosterone as they age at about 2% per year starting at 19 years old, leading to physical, mental, emotional, and even sexual complications. Bio-identical testosterone pellets can prove helpful for men with these issues. (Contrary to old beliefs, testosterone therapy has not been shown to cause or negatively affect prostate cancer.* Bio-identical hormones are associated with fewer side effects than non-bio-identical hormones.)
Following your initial consultation, the first insertion will be made in the “love handle” area with the use of a local anesthetic. Using a small metal tube, Dr. Richards will insert the pellets through a two- to three-millimeter skin opening. Men often see improvements within the first month and are generally advised to undergo insertions approximately every four months. Dr. Richards will keep thorough records of your experience through blood work and symptom relief at follow-up visits.
For more information about the bio-identical pellet hormone therapy process, we encourage you to contact our practice today. At your initial appointment, Dr. Richards can examine your lab sheets and testosterone levels before working with you to build a personalized treatment plan.
Medical References*
Cleveland Clinic
National Library of Medicine