Bioidentical Hormone replacement Portland, OR - Vitality Medical Center

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) uses hormones that are molecularly identical to those produced naturally in the body to supplement declining hormone levels. This promotes better health, vitality, and an improved quality of life. Vitality Medical Center provides customized BHRT treatment plans to help patients in Portland, Oregon, and surrounding areas regain hormonal balance.

Why Hormone Levels Decline

As we age, hormone production declines, leading to unpleasant symptoms. This is a natural part of aging but contributes to health issues that lower one's quality of life.

While genetics and lifestyle factors play a role, the main reasons hormone levels fall are:

• The pituitary gland produces fewer stimulation hormones.
• The gonads (testes and ovaries) receive fewer stimulation signals, so they make fewer hormones.
• Body tissues become less responsive to hormones.

Key hormones that decline, contributing to deficiency symptoms, include estrogen, progesterone (in women), testosterone, and thyroid hormones.

Recognizing Hormone Deficiency Signs

Detecting hormone imbalance early and beginning treatment minimizes long-term issues. Common symptoms of hormone deficiencies are:

Estrogen Deficiency

• Hot flashes, night sweats
• Vaginal dryness, discomfort
• Bladder issues like urgency or leakage
• Loss of skin elasticity, collagen
• Joint pain, muscle stiffness
• Poor sleep
• Low mood, lack of motivation

Progesterone Deficiency

• Irregular, heavy periods
• PMS symptoms like bloating and headaches
• Uterine bleeding between cycles
• Weight gain, fluid retention
• Anxiety, irritability, fatigue
• Sleep issues

Testosterone Deficiency

• Low libido, erectile dysfunction
• Lack of energy, endurance
• Loss of lean muscle mass
• Weight gain - increased belly fat
• Depression, moodiness
• Poor concentration, memory

Thyroid Deficiency

• Fatigue despite adequate sleep
• Weight gain, fluid retention
• Hair loss, dry skin and hair
• Always feeling cold
• Constipation
• Impaired memory and focus
• Depression, low mood

The Benefits of Bioidentical HRT

BHRT aims to restore hormones to optimal levels to provide wide-ranging benefits:

Physical Health Benefits

• Alleviates uncomfortable menopausal symptoms like hot flashes
• Restores libido and sexual health
• Builds lean muscle, enhances metabolism
• Strengthens bones, prevents osteoporosis
• Improves heart health, lowers cardiovascular risks
• Slows skin aging for a more youthful appearance

Mental & Emotional Benefits

• Balances mood, reduces anxiety and depression
• Sharpens memory, improves focus and clarity
• Boosts energy levels, drive, and motivation
• Promotes better sleep
• Improves overall outlook and quality of life

Getting Started with Bioidentical HRT

The key steps to beginning bioidentical hormone replacement therapy are:

1. Comprehensive lab testing to check hormone, thyroid, and other levels
2. Consultation to assess health history, symptoms, and goals
3. Customized treatment plan - appropriate hormones and dosing
4. Follow-up testing to ensure optimal hormone levels
5. Monitor progress at regular appointments

At Vitality Medical Center, our experienced practitioners oversee each step to provide fully personalized care. We take the time to understand your unique needs and adjust treatment accordingly.

Bioidentical Delivery Methods

There are multiple effective methods to safely deliver bioidentical hormones. We recommend the approaches below based on each patient's needs and preferences:

• Pills or Capsules: Estrogen, progesterone, testosterone