What are the benefits of bioidentical hormone therapy?

Many women use bioidentical hormone therapy to reduce symptoms of hot flashes, memory lapses, sexual dysfunction, lack of sleep, depression, and fatigue.

Men may use bioidentical hormone therapy to improve sexual desire and performance, control weight, build muscle mass, and feel more motivated and upbeat.

Are the pellets different for women and men?

Yes and No.  The pellets are formulated specifically for women or men to return them to their normal hormonally balanced physiology.

Pellets for most women contain bioidentical estrogen and/or a proper level of bioidentical testosterone.  However, some women cannot take estrogen for medical reasons and therefore testosterone only pellets may be recommended.  Pellets for men contain only bioidentical testosterone.

How are bioidentical hormones different from synthetic hormones?

Bioidentical hormones are biochemically the same as the hormones produced by the human body.  They are plant-based, natural substances created from yams to precisely match the molecular structure of hormones that can be metabolized by the body, minimizing side effects.  Synthetic hormones are artificially formulated and intentionally manufactured to be slightly different from human hormone in order to be patentable.

How are the pellets administered?

We will clean the skin over the back of the hip area, numb the area with a local anesthetic, then make a small incision.  The pellets are slipped under the skin through the incision.  A piece of tape and a pressure dressing are placed over the area.  No stitch is required.  The procedure takes only a few minutes.

How long do the pellets last?

Pellet duration largely depends on your level of activity.  Pellets for women typically last 3-4 months.  Pellets for men typically last 4-5 months.  Pellet duration varies by individual and their body's needs.  If you are very active, under a lot of stress, or are out in extremely hot weather, your treatment will be on the lower end of the duration estimate.  Absorption rate is based on cardiac output.

How will I know when I need more pellets?

Most users report they can tell when they need more pellets based on a decrease in energy levels or return of other symptoms.  Pellets take from 7 to 10 days to become fully effective, so you should schedule your next pellet procedure accordingly to avoid any "downtime" using the guidelines presented in the previous question. 

Are there any side effects?

Side effects from the hormones may include some hair growth or acne, both of which are very treatable.  Mild bruising and/or temporary discomfort at the pellet insertion site may occur.

Results of your lab work or a known history of cancer may affect your eligibility for bioidentical hormone treatments.  We will discuss this with your prior to your treatment.

Does there need to be a consultation visit prior to procedure day?

Yes, there is always a consultation visit before the initial BioTe pellet procedure. It is important that we meet the patient and evaluate the patients needs and expectations prior to performing the procedure.  Lab work orders will be provided at the conclusion of the consultation visit.  The results of the blood work will be evaluated and discussed with patient prior to the BioTe pellet procedure.

If you are interested in BioTe hormone therapy, please call the office at 281-359-3223 and request a consultation appointment with Claire Trappey to discuss BioTe.             

What lab work is required?

Prior to the pellet procedure, we will review the results of a blood test done to determine your hormone levels.  If the results support hormone therapy, we will discuss the results on the day of the procedure.  If the results DO NOT support hormone therapy, we will contact you in advance of your procedure and discuss the results.  Another blood draw is usually done about four weeks after the first pellet insertion to see if the dosing used was on target for you.

You will only need to have your hormone levels rechecked about once a year or if there are any significant changes in your health.

Where can I get my labwork done?

You can have your blood drawn in our office for processing, or we can provide you with the necessary paperwork for you to have your labwork done at a laboratory of your choice.

Is Bioidentical Hormone Pellet Therapy covered by insurance?

You may wish to check with your insurance company to determine if hormone replacement therapy is covered by your insurance plan.  While we are not in network with any insurance providers and do not submit insurance claims, we can provide a superbill which you can submit to your insurance company.  Health Savings Accounts (HSA) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) can generally be used for payment.

Are the nutraceuticals you sell necessary for my well being?

I highly recommend all of the nutraceuticals offered on my web site.  Each product has a thorough explanation of it's benefits in the description area on the product page.  For my hormone therapy patients, I highly recommend DIM and for that reason I provide the first bottle FREE on the day of your procedure.

How long after I order nutraceuticals should I expect delivery?

Normally, shipments go out within 24 hours of the order being received.  For shipments within 50 miles of my office, that often means you'll get your product within 2 days.  You'll receive an email confirming the order and another email confirming shipment.  All orders are shipped USPS and include a tracking number.  

Can I purchase the nutraceuticals at your office?

The nutraceuticals can only be purchased on my web site.  I do not sell any nutraceuticals out of the office.