Hormonal Imbalance: What Are Your Options?

By Andrea Bickerton, M.D.

As women age, they tend to produce fewer and fewer hormones each year after the age of thirty. Females are predisposed to experience an imbalance of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, which can lead to hot flashes, night sweats, anxiety, depression, brain fog, weight gain, loss of muscle, irritability and bone deficiency. Bone loss in women can exacerbate stress fractures caused by osteopenia or osteoporosis.

Hormonal levels can be adjusted through bio-identical hormone therapy, which alleviates or in many cases, eliminates the associated symptoms and life fluctuations surrounding hormones. There are even studies now that suggest bio-identical hormones can help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Bio-Identical Hormones
In the U.S., bio-identical Hormone Therapy (BHT) has been used since the 1930s. And based on hundreds of current medically thorough studies, the results for patients overall quality of life and dramatic changes in their hormonal symptoms are astounding.

Bio-identical hormones are equal to our body’s natural hormones on a molecular level. The difference between synthetic and identical hormones is that synthetic hormones do not match human hormones on a biological level.

Bio-identical hormones are made from plant sources and are readily received by the body as natural and normal. They are much more therapeutic and effective than synthetic hormonal substances.

Why Testosterone?
Females need a steady level of testosterone and estrogen in their bodies for overall health and well-being on many levels. However, a common misconception is that women need high levels of flowing estrogen. This is not the case. Consequently, female bodies need circulating testosterone, which enables the body to produce and regulate how much estrogen is necessary. In short, testosterone naturally regulates estrogen levels within the cellular structure.

Many women are skeptical of testosterone therapy for menopausal symptoms because they believe it’s just for men. But testosterone is vital for females, and your physician will regulate the dosage to custom-suit your specific needs. It is essential for women to have appropriate testosterone levels to naturally control their estrogen because as we age, our testosterone levels are continuously decreasing.

Low Testosterone Can Lead To:
• Heart Disease
• Metabolic Syndrome
• Depression
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Cognitive Decline
• Lack of libido

Hormonal Pellet Therapy
Pellet Therapy is a bio-identical hormone treatment that is time-released. It’s a small pellet the size of a grain of rice, and it is strategically placed in a very tiny incision in the upper buttocks region of the hip. Females need approximately one pellet, which lasts for about three to four months. Most patients have their pellets replaced 3-4 times per year.

Other Forms of Hormonal Replacement
When hormones are injected, you receive a large dose into your body immediately, and many times, that can be overwhelming to your cells. When taking the pill form of hormones, the levels are broken down in the liver and never fully reach the bloodstream to make a significant impact. When using creams, the dose is not well regulated, since absorption is dependent upon the individual’s skin and various health factors.

Refined Image of Naples
Refined Image is the premiere aesthetics and weight loss boutique clinic in Naples, Florida, providing exceptional service to patients with a wide range of medical needs through the provision of innovative treatments. Andrea Bickerton, MD, is the head clinician at Refined Image, and specializes in aesthetics, weight loss, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, and vaginal health. Dr. Bickerton is an experienced doctor who spent five years as a primary care physician before choosing to focus on health improvement services.

One of the main benefits of receiving treatment at Refined Image is that patients are always seen by a certified medical doctor, ensuring patient safety and providing the highest standards of care at all times. Refined Image combines medical expertise with a holistic approach to well-being. It’s important to Dr. Bickerton that her patients feel happy with the way they look as well as how they feel. By treating the whole person, Dr. Bickerton and her team aim to help their patients become more confident and enjoy their lives to the fullest.

At Refined Image, patients receive personalized treatment plans that address their health care needs and their aesthetic goals. Dr. Bickerton uses top-of-the-line technologies to deliver the most effective treatments without the need for invasive cosmetic surgery. Dr. Bickerton’s patients rediscover a healthy vitality and reveal their natural beauty when they undergo treatments at Refined Image, where the goal is for everyone to be the best versions of themselves.

Refined Image Services
• Hormone Therapy
• Halo Laser
• BBL
• Botox & Fillers
• Vaginal Rejuvenation
• Hydrafacial
• CoolSculpting
• Weight Loss
• Contour TRL LaserPeel
• SkinPen Microneedling
• Spa Services
• Bridal Packages
• IV Therapy
• And More

Refined Image is the premiere aesthetics and weight loss boutique clinic in Naples, Florida To schedule your appointment, please call 239-302-3540, or visit refinedimagenaples.com