Hormone Replacement Therapy

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Las Vegas and Henderson, NV

What is Your Body Trying to Tell You: Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a medical treatment that uses hormones to relieve symptoms associated with menopause or other hormonal imbalances. HRT typically involves estrogen and progesterone but may include testosterone (TRT) and other hormones. HRT aims to balance hormone levels in the body, which can alleviate uncomfortable menopause symptoms, help with weight gain, and improve sexual function for women. Furthermore, testosterone replacement can help alleviate the symptoms of low testosterone, also called andropause, and improve men’s overall quality of life. HRT can be administered through various methods, including injections, gels, patches, or pellets.

Dr. Mustafa Ahmed is a certified bariatric surgeon who practices at Southern Nevada Bariatrics in Las Vegas. In addition to his expertise in bariatric surgery, Dr. Ahmed specializes in hormone replacement therapy. With over a decade of experience in the field, Dr. Ahmed has helped numerous patients improve their quality of life by restoring hormonal balance through personalized HRT plans. Whether you’re experiencing low libido, weight gain, depression, or other symptoms related to hormonal changes, Dr. Ahmed can help you find a safe and effective solution. Call (702) 626-0499 for a consultation at Southern Nevada Bariatrics in Las Vegas or complete this form.

Follow the Southern Nevada Bariatrics blog for insider info on weight loss and hormone therapy in the Vegas area.

What Are Hormones?

Hormones are essential chemical messengers in the body that regulate and control many bodily functions, from growth and development to metabolism, mood, and reproductive processes. They are produced by specialized glands, such as the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, and ovaries or testes. They travel through the bloodstream to target cells in various organs and tissues throughout the body.

Some of the key functions of hormones include:

  • Regulating growth and development – Growth, thyroid, and sex hormones are essential for normal growth and development in children and adolescents.
  • Controlling metabolism – Hormones such as insulin, thyroid, and cortisol help regulate the body’s metabolic processes, including using and storing nutrients such as glucose and fat. [1]
  • Maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance – Hormones such as aldosterone are important for maintaining proper blood pressure and other physiological processes.
  • Regulating reproductive processes – Hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are essential for ovulation, menstruation, and sperm production.
  • Influencing mood and behavior – Serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin can influence mood and behavior, including feelings of happiness, love, and social bonding.

Hormones play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and overall health and well-being in the body.

What is Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Hormone replacement therapy involves replacing or supplementing the body’s naturally occurring hormones with synthetic or bioidentical hormones to alleviate the symptoms of hormonal imbalances. 

The Endocrine Society defines bioidentical hormones as “substances that possess an identical molecular and chemical structure to hormones that are naturally produced in the human body.” [2] When you read “bioidentical,” it refers to how the hormones are made. On the other hand, the term “natural” refers to where hormones come from. Natural hormones may not be bioidentical, like the plant-derived hormones called phytoestrogens in soy products. These hormones are different from the ones our bodies make, and they don’t work as well. [3] Synthetic hormones are manufactured in a lab and may only have slight differences in chemical structure.

What are the Most Popular Hormone Replacement Therapies For Women?

The most popular HRT types vary depending on the individual’s hormonal needs, health status, and preferences. In women, estrogen and progesterone are the most commonly prescribed hormones for HRT. These hormones can be administered in various forms, including pills, patches, gels, and creams.

For women who have undergone a hysterectomy, estrogen-only therapy may be recommended; for those still with a uterus, estrogen-progestin therapy (EPT) is often prescribed to reduce the risk of uterine cancer. [4]

What are the Most Popular Hormone Replacement Therapies For Men?

Testosterone is an important hormone that plays a vital role in developing and maintaining male physical and sexual characteristics. A lack of testosterone, known as testosterone deficiency or hypogonadism, can lead to various physical and emotional symptoms in men.

Some of the physical symptoms of low testosterone may include:

  • Reduced muscle mass and strength
  • Increased body fat
  • Decreased bone density
  • Reduced body hair
  • Reduced sex drive
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Decreased motivation

The emotional symptoms of low testosterone may include depression, irritability, mood swings, difficulty sleeping, and loss of self-confidence. If left untreated, low testosterone can significantly impact a man’s quality of life and overall health.

Testosterone replacement therapy is men’s most commonly used form of HRT. Testosterone can be administered through injections, skin patches, gels, or pellets implanted under the skin.

What are the Benefits of Hormone Replacement?

Hormone replacement therapy can provide a range of benefits for individuals with hormone deficiencies or imbalances. The benefits will vary depending on the hormone replacement type, the individual’s health status, and their unique needs.

For women experiencing menopausal symptoms, HRT can help:

  • Reduce hot flashes
  • Night sweats
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures in postmenopausal women
  • Other symptoms related to declining estrogen levels, including weight gain

In men with low testosterone levels, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can: 

  • Improve muscle mass
  • Increase bone density
  • Improve overall physical function
  • Improve energy levels, mood, and sexual function

HRT can also benefit individuals with other hormone deficiencies, such as those with thyroid hormone imbalances or adrenal insufficiency, by helping to regulate hormone levels and improve overall health.

Ideal Candidates for Hormone Replacement Therapy

As we age, our hormone levels naturally decline. For example, women experience a decline in estrogen and progesterone levels during menopause, while men may experience a decline in testosterone levels as they age. Men with low testosterone may experience decreased sex drive, difficulty achieving and maintaining an erection, and decreased sexual satisfaction.

Here are some further contributing factors to hormone depletion:

  • Prolonged or chronic stress can lead to an increase in the production of cortisol, a stress hormone, which can interfere with the production and balance of other hormones in the body.
  • A diet high in sugar, processed foods, and unhealthy fats can interfere with the body’s ability to produce and regulate hormones.
  • Sleep plays a crucial role in hormone regulation, and chronic sleep deprivation can disrupt the body’s hormonal balance.
  • Exposure to environmental toxins such as pesticides, chemicals, and heavy metals can interfere with hormone production and regulation in the body.
  • Certain medical conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, and autoimmune diseases can affect hormone production and regulation. 
  • Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, can also deplete hormone levels.

When hormones become depleted, it can lead to various symptoms and health problems, including fatigue, weight gain, mood changes, decreased libido, and decreased bone density, among others. Hormone replacement therapy may be recommended to help restore hormonal balance and alleviate these symptoms.

Personal Consultation

If you are considering hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and have questions or concerns, Dr. Ahmed can help. As a certified bariatric surgeon in Las Vegas, he has experience in helping patients manage hormone imbalances and optimize their health. 

During a consultation, you will discuss your symptoms, medical history, and goals to determine whether HRT is a safe and appropriate treatment. Dr. Ahmed will also provide guidance on the different types of HRT, potential risks and benefits, and other treatment options that may be available. He aims to work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and helps you feel your best.

To schedule your consultation, call (702) 626-0499 today!

Preparation

Once you have decided to proceed with HRT, follow Dr. Ahmed’s instructions for starting and taking the medication; this may include taking the medication at a specific time or with food. It’s also important to schedule regular follow-up appointments while on HRT to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan.

While on HRT, you must be aware of potential side effects and report any concerns to Dr. Ahmed. In addition to making lifestyle changes before starting HRT, it’s important to continue these changes while on the medication; this may include

  • Eating a healthy diet
  • Exercising regularly
  • Getting plenty of sleep
  • Reducing stress

It’s also important to monitor your overall health, including regular check-ups, mammograms, and other recommended screenings, as advised by Dr. Ahmed. If you are ready to commit to a healthier lifestyle and increased sexual stamina, weight loss, and energy, then you are ready for HRT!

How Are Hormone Replacements Administered?

Hormones can be administered in different ways, depending on the type of hormone and the individual’s needs. Here are some common methods:

  • Oral tablets
  • Skin patches can release hormones into the bloodstream. These patches can be applied to different body parts, including the abdomen, buttocks, or thighs, and are typically changed once or twice a week.
  • Vaginal creams or tablets are inserted into the vagina using an applicator and are typically used daily for a certain period.
  • Administered in our office, injections may be used for testosterone replacement therapy in men or women who have difficulty absorbing oral medications.
  • HRT can be administered through small, rice-sized pellets implanted under the skin. These pellets release hormones into the bloodstream slowly over several months.

Dr. Ahmed will help determine the most appropriate HRT administration method based on your needs and health status.

What Side Effects Should I Be Concerned With?

Like any medication, hormone replacement therapy can have side effects. Here are some potential side effects you should be aware of and discuss with your healthcare provider:

  • Breast tenderness or enlargement
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Headaches
  • Bloating
  • Changes in mood, such as depression or anxiety
  • Vaginal bleeding or spotting
  • Fluid retention
  • Weight gain
  • Acne or other skin reactions
  • Changes in libido or sexual function

Additionally, HRT may increase the risk of certain health conditions, such as blood clots, stroke, heart disease, and breast cancer. The risks and benefits of HRT should be carefully considered with Dr. Ahmed, especially if you have a personal or family history of these or other conditions.

Report any side effects or concerns to our office so we can help you manage them appropriately. Dr. Ahmed may adjust your dosage or switch to a different method of HRT to help reduce side effects.

What are the Results of HRT?

Hormone replacement therapy may help improve some women’s mood, cognitive function, and overall quality of life. HRT can help alleviate vaginal dryness and discomfort during sexual activity in women, improving sexual function and satisfaction. It may also improve libido in some women. Some studies have suggested that HRT may help with weight loss in postmenopausal women, particularly when using estrogen therapy. It is believed that HRT can increase serum leptin, a protein that may decrease food intake and increase energy expenditure, theoretically enhancing weight loss. [5]

In men, testosterone therapy may help increase muscle mass and strength. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can positively impact sexual function in men with low testosterone levels. While there is evidence to suggest that testosterone treatment can have a positive effect on erectile function, it’s important to consider some limitations. Specifically, the positive effect may decrease over time, and the magnitude of the effect may be smaller for men with higher baseline T levels. [6]

What is the Cost of Hormone Replacement Therapy in Vegas?

Dr. Ahmed will be happy to discuss the cost of your HRT during your consultation. Southern Nevada Bariatrics offers financing for patients who qualify. Schedule your appointment today! Call (702) 626-0499 or fill out our contact form to learn more.

We look forward to helping you feel better and get the most out of life!

References

  1. Mullur R, Liu YY, Brent GA. Thyroid Hormone Regulation of Metabolism. Physiological Reviews. 2014;94(2):355-382. https://doi.org/10.1152/physrev.00030.2013
  2. Files JA, Ko MG, Pruthi S. Bioidentical Hormone Therapy. Mayo Clinic Proceedings. 2011;86(7):673-680. https://doi.org/10.4065/mcp.2010.0714
  3. Sood R, Shuster L, Smith R, Vincent A, Jatoi A. Counseling Postmenopausal Women about Bioidentical Hormones: Ten Discussion Points for Practicing Physicians. Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine : JABFM. 2011;24(2):202-210. https://doi.org/10.3122/jabfm.2011.02.100194
  4. American Cancer Society. Menopausal Hormone Therapy and Cancer Risk. www.cancer.org. Published 2015. https://www.cancer.org/healthy/cancer-causes/medical-treatments/menopausal-hormone-replacement-therapy-and-cancer-risk.html
  5. Mueller-Cunningham WM, Quintana R, Kasim-Karakas SE. An ad libitum, very low-fat diet results in weight loss and changes in nutrient intakes in postmenopausal women. Journal of the American Dietetic Association. 2003;103(12):1600-1606. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jada.2003.09.017
  6. Isidori AM, Giannetta E, Gianfrilli D, et al. Effects of testosterone on sexual function in men: results of a meta-analysis. Clinical Endocrinology. 2005;63(4):381-394. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2265.2005.02350.x