Hormone replacement therapy West Des Moines, IA - Balance Hormone Center

Introduction

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can provide relief for both men and women experiencing symptoms of hormone imbalance due to natural aging or medical conditions. Balance Hormone Center in West Des Moines offers customized HRT programs to help patients restore hormone balance, vitality, and overall wellbeing.

What is Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) involves using medications to supplement hormones that decline naturally with age. It can effectively treat uncomfortable symptoms of menopause in women, such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood changes, sleep disturbances, and bone loss. HRT is also used in both men and women to treat hypogonadism - a condition where the body does not produce enough key sex hormones.

Doctors may prescribe HRT to:

• Alleviate menopausal symptoms in women
• Treat hormone deficiency and low testosterone in men
• Prevent osteoporosis and bone fractures
• Improve energy levels, muscle mass, emotional health, and quality of life

HRT delivers hormones directly into the body via pills, skin patches, gels, creams, injections, implants, or vaginal rings. Treatment is customized based on the patient's needs and hormone levels.

Benefits of HRT

Some key benefits of hormone replacement therapy include:

• Reduced menopausal symptoms - HRT is very effective for treating hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, anxiety, fatigue, sleep problems and more during perimenopause and postmenopause.
• Stronger bones - Estrogen therapy helps maintain bone mineral density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
• Improved heart health - HRT can raise HDL (good) cholesterol while lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol.
• Better emotional health - Balancing hormone levels often lifts mood, reduces anxiety/depression, and improves overall outlook.
• Increased energy - Many patients report feeling more energetic, motivated and engaged after starting HRT.
• Enhanced libido - HRT can improve sexual desire and function in both women and men.
• Prevention of health conditions - HRT may help lower risks for heart disease, colon cancer, diabetes, and dementia.
• Better quality of life - By reducing unpleasant symptoms and improving health, HRT helps patients enjoy daily activities again.

Hormone Replacement at Balance Hormone Center

The hormone specialists at Balance Hormone Center offer personalized care to help patients achieve ideal hormone balance. We begin with comprehensive lab testing to evaluate ovarian, thyroid, adrenal, and pituitary function. This allows us to identify hormone deficiencies and create customized treatment plans.

We provide FDA-approved bioidentical hormones including estradiol, testosterone, DHEA, melatonin, and more. These plant-derived hormones are molecularly identical to those produced naturally in the body. This makes them easier to absorb and less likely to cause side effects.

Patients can choose from a variety of convenient delivery methods - patches, pills, topical gels/creams, injectable pellets, vaginal inserts, and more. We'll help determine which option best fits your lifestyle and needs.

Some key factors that set our West Des Moines HRT program apart:

• Initial 1-hour new patient consultations
• Ongoing follow-ups & lab testing to monitor progress
• Hormone education for patients
• Collaborative approach focused on safety & results
• Support with diet, exercise, stress management
• Top quality compounded hormone therapies
• Appointment flexibility for busy schedules

Who is a Good Candidate for HRT?

Both women and men can benefit from HRT if they have low hormone levels causing undesirable symptoms. Good candidates include:

• Menopausal women - Most appropriate if within 10 years of menopause onset. HRT very effectively treats hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal atrophy, bone loss, and other symptoms.
• Men with low testosterone (hypogonadism) - Testosterone therapy can reverse fatigue, depression, muscle loss, erectile dysfunction, and more.
• People with premature ovarian/testicular failure - HRT replaces missing hormones at any age if the ovaries or testes fail prematurely.
• Transgender patients - HRT masculinizes or feminizes the body to align with gender identity.
• Women with premature menopause - Ideal for those who experience early menopause due to surgery, chemotherapy, or genetic conditions. Replaces depleted estrogen.
• Those at high risk for bone fractures - HRT strengthens bones and reduces fracture risk from osteoporosis.
• Patients with disabling menopausal symptoms - Women whose quality of life is significantly impacted by hot flashes, sleep disruption, mood changes, and other menopausal problems.

Speak with your healthcare provider to determine if you might benefit from hormone replacement therapy. The experts at Balance Hormone Center are happy to answer any questions and discuss treatment options.

Getting Started with HRT in West Des Moines

Beginning hormone replacement therapy is straightforward. The first step is making an appointment for a new patient consultation at Balance Hormone Center.

We recommend scheduling your appointment 1-2 weeks in advance for optimal availability. Our front desk can assist with finding a convenient day and time.

What to bring to your first HRT appointment:

• Medical history records
• List of current medications and supplements
• Symptom tracker - note menopause/low testosterone symptoms
• Questions for the hormone specialist

During the 60-minute consultation, our hormone experts will:

• Review your medical history, medications, and symptoms
• Discuss treatment goals
• Explain HRT options and make recommendations
• Order initial blood tests if needed
• Address any questions/concerns

After evaluating your hormone levels and overall health, we will create a customized HRT regimen. We'll teach you how to properly administer your bioidentical hormones and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.

Most patients start feeling better within a few weeks after beginning HRT through Balance Hormone Center. We are committed to working closely with you to tailor your therapy for the best possible outcome.

Lifestyle Tips for HRT Patients

Hormone replacement therapy is most effective when combined with a healthy overall lifestyle. Here are some recommendations:

• Optimize nutrition - Eat a balanced diet high in fruits/vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains and healthy fats. Limit sugar, processed foods, and alcohol. Stay well hydrated.
• Exercise regularly - Aim for 30 minutes per day of moderate activity like walking, swimming, cycling, or yoga. Strength training twice a week also helps.
• Reduce stress - Make time each day for relaxing activities - meditation, stretching, massage, nature walks, calming music. Breathe deeply.
• Get adequate sleep - Prioritize 7-9 hours per night. Keep the bedroom cool, dark and technology-free. Go to bed at a consistent time.
• Consider supplements - Vitamin D, calcium, omega-3s, and adaptogens like ashwagandha may provide added benefits. Discuss options with your provider.
• Enjoy support - Share your HRT experience with friends, family or support groups. Connecting with others helps many patients.

Adopting healthy habits enhances hormone therapy results while also boosting overall wellbeing. We provide lifestyle guidance to help patients thrive.

Helpful West Des Moines Resources

West Des Moines offers wonderful amenities to support a healthy lifestyle during HRT. Here are some local favorites:

• Raccoon River Park - Over 500 acres with miles of wooded trails perfect for walking, jogging or cycling. Relaxing spots alongside the river.
• The Gym at The Aspen Athletic Club - Brand new, sprawling fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment, classes, trainer services, and amenities.
• Guru Bodi - Gorgeous yoga studio offering beginner through advanced classes in hot, vinyasa, restorative and more styles. Excellent for reducing stress.
• Jethro's BBQ - Popular local restaurant chain serving mouthwatering Southern barbecue. Get carryout to limit dining out.
• Mainframe Studios - Boutique hair and nail salon housed in a chic modern space. Pamper yourself with their services.
• Methodist West Hospital - Top-quality care with an emphasis on women's health, cancer, and orthopedics. Affiliated with our clinic.
• Sunflower Farmer's Market - Market supplying fresh local and organic produce, meat, dairy and pantry staples. Great for healthy eating.
• Lakeview Marina - Rent pontoon boats, kayaks, paddleboards and more to enjoy lovely Lake Ahquabi on a sunny day.

West Des Moines provides the ideal setting to complement your HRT treatment. Our clinic is conveniently situated near these fantastic local spots.

Conclusion

Hormone replacement therapy can be life-changing for those with bothersome menopause or low testosterone symptoms. Balance Hormone Center provides customized bioidentical HRT regimens to restore wellbeing. With an experienced healthcare team, state-of-the-art therapies, and a collaborative approach, we empower patients to look and feel their best again. Contact us today to learn more about our West Des Moines hormone replacement program. We look forward to helping you rebalance, rejuvenate and thrive!