Hormone imbalances can develop due to aging, stress, poor diet, genetics, or other factors. When hormones fall out of optimal ranges, patients may experience symptoms like fatigue, trouble sleeping, low libido, hot flashes, and more. Rebalancing hormones often leads to improved wellbeing.
The first step is getting lab testing to check hormone levels. Common tests include:
Based on lab results and symptoms, specialized providers can determine if hormone therapy is recommended. Ongoing testing helps monitor treatment effectiveness.
There are a few main approaches to hormone therapy:
These are identical in molecular structure to the body's natural hormones. They are generally sourced from plants and customized to match the patient's needs.
Synthetic hormones have a different molecular structure than natural hormones. While effective, some patients report preferring bioidentical hormones.
Compounding pharmacies can create customized hormone preparations based on a provider's prescription. This allows for personalized dosage and delivery method.
Seeking proper diagnosis and treatment for hormone imbalances can relieve troublesome symptoms and help patients feel their best. It is important to work with an experienced provider to ensure safe, effective care. Lifestyle changes like improved diet, more exercise, and stress reduction often complement hormone therapy.
Some transgender men report unexpected changes in their food preferences and tastes after starting testosterone therapy, with many developing a sudden liking for spicier foods or foods like red meat that they previously disliked. The shift in food preferences is likely due to testosterone's influence on their senses of taste and smell.
Please consult with a licensed healthcare provider to determine if hormone testing or treatment is right for you. They can answer questions about specific symptoms and concerns. Treatment should be based on lab testing, medical history, and an in-depth conversation about goals.
