Understanding Hormone Therapy Types | Fayetteville Internal Medicine Blog

Explore hormone therapy types for men and women, including menopause, thyroid, and testosterone treatments at Fayetteville Internal Medicine.

Hormones play a crucial role in regulating many of the body’s essential functions, from metabolism and growth to mood and reproductive health. As we age, or when certain medical conditions occur, hormone levels can become unbalanced—leading to a variety of symptoms that can significantly impact quality of life. At Fayetteville Internal Medicine, we understand how hormone imbalances can affect your health and wellness. That’s why we offer comprehensive hormone therapy solutions tailored to your needs.

In this article, we’ll explore the different types of hormone therapy available, how they work, and who might benefit from them.

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What Is Hormone Therapy?

Hormone therapy (HT), also known as hormone replacement therapy (HRT), is the medical use of hormones to treat conditions caused by hormonal imbalances or deficiencies. The therapy is most commonly associated with treating symptoms of menopause, but it is also used for andropause (male menopause), thyroid disorders, and other endocrine issues.

Depending on the condition being treated, hormone therapy can involve one or more hormones, such as:

Estrogen
Progesterone
Testosterone
Thyroid hormones
DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone)
Cortisol (in adrenal insufficiency cases)

The goal of hormone therapy is to restore hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms, improving overall quality of life.

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Types of Hormone Therapy

There are several types of hormone therapy, each designed to target specific conditions or populations. The most common types include:

1. Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT)

Menopausal hormone therapy is used to relieve symptoms associated with menopause, including hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood swings. There are two main types:

Estrogen-only therapy – typically prescribed for women who have had a hysterectomy.
Estrogen-progestin therapy – for women with an intact uterus to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer.

These hormones can be delivered through various methods including oral tablets, transdermal patches, vaginal creams, or pellets.

2. Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)

As men age, testosterone levels gradually decline, sometimes leading to fatigue, decreased libido, mood changes, and muscle loss. Testosterone replacement therapy can help restore vitality and energy. TRT is typically administered via:

Injections
Topical gels or creams
Patches
Implants

Monitoring testosterone levels through regular blood tests is essential to ensure safe and effective treatment.

3. Thyroid Hormone Therapy

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and depression. Thyroid hormone therapy, often using synthetic thyroxine (T4), restores hormone levels and metabolism to normal. This is usually taken as a daily oral medication and requires periodic monitoring of thyroid levels.

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4. Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)

Bioidentical hormones are chemically identical to those the body naturally produces. BHRT is used in both men and women to treat symptoms of aging or hormonal imbalance. Common delivery methods include creams, gels, pills, and pellets. Some patients prefer BHRT due to its perceived “natural” composition, although it’s essential to discuss the risks and benefits with your physician.

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5. Adrenal Hormone Therapy

Conditions such as Addison’s disease or chronic stress can cause adrenal insufficiency. Adrenal hormone therapy replaces deficient hormones like cortisol to help regulate metabolism, blood pressure, and immune response.

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Is Hormone Therapy Right for You?

Hormone therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s crucial to undergo a full medical evaluation, including lab testing and a review of your symptoms and history. At Fayetteville Internal Medicine, our team customizes hormone therapy plans for each individual, ensuring the right balance and delivery method for optimal results.

Potential side effects and risks—such as blood clots, stroke, or certain cancers—must also be weighed carefully. Ongoing monitoring and communication with your healthcare provider are key to safe and effective hormone therapy.

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Hormone Therapy in Fayetteville, NC

If you're struggling with symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, low libido, or weight changes, hormone imbalance could be the cause. At Fayetteville Internal Medicine, our experienced providers offer personalized hormone therapy solutions to help you feel like yourself again. Whether you're dealing with menopause, low testosterone, thyroid issues, or other hormonal concerns, we’re here to help you restore balance and well-being.