THE EVALUATION PROCESS

Client Information Packet/Check List of Symptoms
Upon checking in with the receptionist, you will be given a client information packet which includes a symptom check list. It is crucial to the evaluation process that you are as specific as possible regarding your individual symptoms and any and all medications (prescription/ OTC) including vitamins and herbs that you are currently taking as this will assist the consultant in your overall profile analysis.

What to Expect When Meeting with the Consultant
A knowledgeable consultant will be able to provide you with information about treating your particular symptoms and answer all of your questions regarding bio-identical hormone replacement therapy. The consultant will go over the details of the therapy, including what to expect as you proceed down the path to regaining your optimal health. Consultations take about 30 minutes and the initial blood work can be done the same day in most cases if you decide to proceed with the therapy.

Lab Studies Done and the Reasons Why
Blood work will be done and hormone levels will be evaluated before therapy is started. It is important to know what your hormone levels are prior to therapy and be able to correlate those levels to your symptoms that your are experiencing. In the field of hormone replacement therapy, one size does not fit all. These tests will assist the doctor in creating a treatment plan just for YOU.

Meeting with the Doctor or Nurse
Each time you meet with the doctor or nurse, your individual lab results will be reviewed and compared to your symptom check list. The two of you will discuss any possible side effects as well as the expected positive results that you may be experiencing. Some people find that keeping a log or diary to track how they are feeling day to day can make these discussions easier. You should feel comfortable during these discussions to be honest about your symptoms and how you are feeling. This meeting is an important part of the process as it promotes a sense of partnership. Each person is different, which is why this partnership between you and the medical staff is critical to your individual plan. Through these open discussions, both of you will decide upon a treatment plan that is right for you.

Treatment Plan
On average, most women will receive a treatment of estradiol and testosterone. Yes, women need some testosterone as well…it is not just for men. If you are prescribed estradiol, you will also need to take progesterone each evening. If you are younger, and still having regular periods without menopausal symptoms, there may not be a need for estradiol. By comparison, most men will receive a larger treatment of testosterone. Again, this is truly an individual plan as one size does not fit all.

The Long Term Benefits
With a few simple changes in the way you approach your health and lifestyle, you can expect a longer and healthier quality of life. In conjunction with these simple changes, bio-identical hormone replacement therapy will allow you to achieve hormonal balance which is the key to unlocking the doors to the youthful, vibrant live we all desire.

THE HORMONE IMPLANT PROCESS
The pellets themselves are larger than a grain of rice but smaller than a “Tic Tac.” The implanting of the hormone pellets is a simple, relatively painless procedure done by administering a local anesthetic to the implant area. The placing of the pellet itself takes less than five (5) minutes. The pellets are usually inserted in the lower abdominal wall or upper buttocks through a small incision, which is then taped, closed with steri-strips. The steri-strips are then covered with a gauze pressure bandage. The gauze bandage may be removed the next day but the steri-strips should stay in place for five to seven (5-7) days. You may experience some bruising and tenderness at the implant site for the first day or two. Icing this area for the first two nights will in most cases alleviate these symptoms. You will be asked to avoid tub baths, hot tubs and swimming pools for the first three (3) days. Showers are perfectly fine. You will be asked to avoid exercise for two to three days. Walking is acceptable.

WHY HORMONE PELLET IMPLANTS?
Data supports that hormone replacement therapy with pellet implants is the most effective and most bio-identical method of delivering hormones in both men and women as compared to topical creams and patches. Pellets, placed under the skin, consistently release small, healthy doses of hormones for 3-5 months in women and 4-6 months in men providing optimal therapy. The pellets do not need to be removed. They completely dissolve on their own.

THE FOLLOW UP
Lab Studies
Blood will be drawn and hormone levels will be re-evaluated regularly throughout your therapy usually a week prior to the insertion of the next set of pellets. During the first year of therapy, one can expect blood work to be done every 3-4 months. After the first year of therapy, hormone levels may be followed less frequently. Once your body has adjusted to your new “normal” hormone levels, some people are able to go longer in between implants.