What is estrogen?

There is no one hormone called estrogen. Estrogen is actually the name of a class of hormones. The three major estrogens produced by women are estriol, estradiol and estrone. Estradiol is the most potent of the three and is the most stimulating to the breast tissue.

What is natural progesterone?

Progesterone, a naturally occurring hormone in both men and women, is essential for many vital functions in the human body. The ovaries produce the majority of progesterone, but only if ovulation occurs. As women approach menopause, less progesterone is produced. Progesterone deficiency is responsible for many of the symptoms associated with menopause. Progesterone's many functions include improving sleep, naturally calming, balancing body fluids, improving fat metabolism, promoting bone formation, possible protection against breast cancer and protecting the uterus against cell proliferation. Progesterone also balances the effects of estrogen and should always be taken in conjunction with estrogen therapy even after hysterectomy.

Why do I need testosterone?

Women's ovaries and adrenal glands do produce testosterone. Every woman will experience a drop in estrogen and testosterone production during menopause. Testosterone is important in maintaining sexual desire, as well as strength and integrity of skin, muscle and bone. Low levels of testosterone will result in a decreased sex drive, fatigue and decreased sense of well being.

Where do these hormones come from?

Natural hormones are obtained from sterol analogues found in many varieties of plants, primarily soybean and wild yam. These estrogen and progesterone like compounds are then transformed in the laboratory to the human bio-identical natural hormones.

Can Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) cause side effects?

HRT's goal is to restore and maintain a physiological status. If hormone levels were normal from age 20 to 40, replacing them to restore the same level that was well tolerated for 20 years is unlikely to cause any serious side effects in later life. The risk is further reduced if only natural hormones are used. However, any type of medication can have side effects if not administered properly. The scientific studies show that the potential benefits of HRT are great, whereas, overdosing to excessive level causes most problems reported from HRT. To insure safety, hormone levels should not be raised above a normal youthful range, and side effects can often be relieved with a dosage adjustment.

How Are Natural Hormones Available?

Natural hormones can be prepared in a dosage form convenient to each individual patient. Women and men are no longer limited by the "one size fits all" medications that pharmaceutical manufacturers sell. Natural hormones can be made as capsules, topical creams, vaginal suppositories, injectables and sublingual liquids or tablets.

Can I get these from my local pharmacy?

Most pharmacies will not compound medications because they do not have the training, time, equipment or staff to manage the special demands of the patients and physicians. West Lindfield Pharmacy has highly trained staff and state of the art equipment to provide quality-compounding services.

How long should I take hormones?

The best answer is "as long as it is needed". The length of time will be different for each woman, depending upon her current health and the chances of developing other serious diseases later on in life. That's one reason why it's so important to have regular health check-ups.

How do I get started on Natural Hormone Therapy?

Natural hormone replacement therapy must be customized for men and women individually. Only after a thorough review of their symptoms and history can an effective regimen be designed. You may contact one of our Doctors by clicking below.