Bioidentical hormones are structurally identical versions of the hormones naturally produced in the human body. They are custom-compounded in a lab using plant sources to match your body's unique hormonal needs and rhythms.
At Balance Clinic clinic in St Clair, MI, we specialize in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) using FDA-approved bioidentical estrogens, progesterone, and testosterone. BHRT can provide relief from unpleasant menopause and andropause symptoms and help you restore hormonal balance.
Key benefits of BHRT:
BHRT is customized to your body's needs through:
At Balance Clinic, we take a holistic approach focused on your long-term health and wellbeing. Our experienced practitioners help patients achieve optimal hormonal balance to look and feel their best at any age.
There are significant differences between bioidentical hormones and their synthetic counterparts:
| Bioidentical Hormones | Synthetic Hormones |
|---|---|
| Molecularly identical to human hormones | Molecular structure different from human hormones |
| Well-tolerated; fewer side effects | Increased risk of side effects |
| Custom-compounded based on your needs | One-size-fits-all preparations |
| Natural; derived from plants | Made from synthetic ingredients |
Research shows bioidentical hormones are safer and more effective for most people. They work harmoniously with the body because they are biochemically equivalent to your own hormones.
Synthetics like CEEs (conjugated equine estrogens) found in drugs like Premarin do not match human estrogen. This makes side effects more likely.
For instance, synthetic progestins used in HRT increase breast cancer risk and clotting. In contrast, natural progesterone has a protective cardiovascular effect and enhances mood.
That's why more and more people are switching to customized bioidentical hormone therapy today.
To determine if you are a candidate for bioidentical HRT, we first need to diagnose the extent of hormone deficiency through testing.
At Balance Clinic, initial screening involves checking levels of key hormones like estradiol, testosterone, DHEA with a blood or saliva test. Based on results, we can pinpoint imbalances causing symptoms and tailor treatment accordingly.
Testing is crucial because every hormonal profile is different. The optimal dosage and hormone ratios needed for one patient may be ineffective or harmful to another.
That's why Balance Clinic analyzes your lab work to craft a personalized plan addressing your underlying issues. We account for your:
You also receive follow-up tests during treatment to ensure hormones remain balanced. This prevents overdose and monitors for safety.
Proper diagnosis of hormone imbalance involves lab testing key hormones like estradiol, testosterone, progesterone in the blood or saliva to check for menopause or andropause. Levels will indicate which hormones are low or high. Ongoing monitoring ensures treatment efficacy and safety. Testing provides the data needed to customize bioidentical hormone therapy to your unique needs.
Follow-up tests during treatment confirm hormones are balanced - not too high or too low. This careful process is why Balance Clinic achieves excellent results tailored specifically for you.
It's vital to work with a qualified, reputable bioidentical hormone doctor for best results and safety. Here is what to look for:
Choose an endocrinologist, OBGYN, or practitioner certified in age management medicine with extensive bioidentical hormone replacement experience. Balance Clinic physicians have 10 years optimizing BHRT.
They tailor combinations of FDA-approved bioidentical estrogens, testosterone, and progesterone based on your symptoms, lab tests, and health profile.
Look for saliva hormone testing, nutrition panels, genetics, and advanced labs to uncover underlying issues. Balance Clinic utilizes leading-edge tests for precision results.
They should listen closely and explain appropriate bioidentical delivery methods - creams, patches, pellets, injections, sublinguals based on your needs and preferences.
Reputable specialists slowly increase dosages while monitoring labs and symptoms to identify optimal levels and prevent overmedication.
Your dietary, exercise, and stress management habits profoundly impact hormonal balance. A skilled practitioner tailors lifestyle changes to complement your treatment.
At Balance Clinic, our exceptional patient care focuses on YOU - not one-size-fits-all medicine. We combine cutting-edge diagnostics with genuine listening to create fully customized therapies for optimal wellbeing.
The field of bioidentical hormone replacement has seen remarkable innovations in recent years. There are now more precise and convenient methods to receive customized treatment.
Saliva tests reliably measure "free" (active) hormone levels and cortisol with the same accuracy as blood draws - without needles. Balance Clinic utilizes leading-edge saliva testing for convenience and insights.
New longer-acting bioidentical testosterone pellets for men provide steady testosterone for 3-6 months from a single insertion. Pellets bypass the liver, delivering consistent therapy.
Sublingual drops/tabs allow for rapid absorption, while newly extended-release bioidentical creams/gels maintain stable hormone activity across 24 hours. Balance Clinic offers all these state-of-the-art methods.
DNA panels help predict your risk for hormone-related cancers, neurodegeneration, cardiovascular disease, and other conditions. Understanding genetic predispositions allows closely targeted early prevention and protection.
Virtual visits provide access to top specialists remotely. Balance Clinic offers telemedicine for greater convenience whether you are traveling or prefer appointments from home.
This new generation of precise diagnostics combined with innovative hormone delivery gives more people access to safe and effective customized treatment - the gold standard for optimizing wellness.
Women produce three primary estrogens: estradiol, estrone, and estriol. Estradiol peaks in the 20s-30s during fertility years before declining at perimenopause. The dramatic drop causes hot flashes, sleep disruption, vaginal atrophy, and emotional volatility.
Studies confirm restoring estradiol levels alleviates troublesome menopausal symptoms. Balance Clinic utilizes topical biest (80% estriol/20% estradiol) creams or estrogen patches dosed to your needs for relief.
We also address the critical protective role of progesterone in the female physiology by replenishing low levels. Modern synthetic progestins carry side effects absent from natural bioidentical progesterone.
When physiologic ratios of key estrogens (estradiol, estriol) and progesterone are reestablished, balance and wellbeing resume. Regular follow-up testing ensures optimal therapeutic ranges for safety.
Sarah, 52, came to us 2 years ago in tears from severe menopause symptoms disrupting her life despite trying various treatments. She had insomnia, anxiety, and forgetfulness, which also affected her high-powered job.
Based on Sarah's symptoms and hormone panel showing very low estradiol and progesterone, we customized a bioidentical hormone regimen for her. We started low and slowly increased dosages while monitoring labs to optimal levels. At her last visit, Sarah joyfully shared she's sleeping great with no hot flashes. Her mood, mental clarity, and skin have also improved dramatically. She feels happy, focused, and energetic like her old self again thanks to bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT).
Stories like Sarah's inspire our team at Balance Clinic. We love seeing patients thrive when their estrogen, progesterone, and other hormones are properly replenished. It's deeply rewarding to give people back the vitality they deserve.
Extensive research proves bioidentical progesterone does NOT increase breast cancer risk and may be protective. The landmark 20-year French E3N observational study of over 80,000 women found customized bioidentical estrogen and progesterone therapy did not elevate cancer rates unlike synthetic progestins. Participants also had significantly lower rates of heart attacks and breast cancer mortality.
These pivotal findings appear in the 2020 MSMB Cancer Epidemiology journal. Science continues confirming bioidentical HRT's safety record when applied properly based on testing. For the latest research insights, follow Balance Clinic on social media!
Balance Clinic specializes in integrative age management merging the latest science with complementary wellness strategies. Our board-certified practitioners have advanced training and over a decade optimizing customized bioidentical hormone replacement plans.
We take time listening to identify root causes of imbalance. Cutting-edge diagnostics uncover nutritional deficiencies, chronic infections, toxicity, or food sensitivities that disrupt endocrine health. These are addressed alongside personalized bioidentical testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone to restore wellbeing long-term.
Lifestyle upgrades can dramatically augment treatment effectiveness:
Our passionate team looks at the whole you, not just lab results. We get to know patients deeply to pinpoint multi-faceted plans for maximizing vitality. Balance Clinic' integrative solutions merged with warmth and care lead to results that frequently exceed expectations.
At Balance Clinic, we understand the importance of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy and its numerous benefits for both men and women. Our experienced practitioners take a holistic approach, utilizing cutting-edge diagnostic tools and customizing treatment plans based on each individual's unique needs.
By replenishing hormones with bioidentical versions that are molecularly identical to those produced naturally by the body, we can alleviate a wide range of symptoms associated with menopause, andropause, and hormonal imbalances. From hot flashes and mood swings to low libido and bone loss, our bioidentical hormone therapy can help restore balance and improve overall well-being.
We prioritize patient education and understanding, taking the time to explain the options and ensure that our clients are fully informed about their treatment. Our commitment to staying updated on the latest research and innovations in the field allows us to offer the most advanced and effective techniques, including saliva testing, time-release hormone delivery methods, and genetic testing.
At Balance Clinic, we believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. Our integrative approach combines bioidentical hormone therapy with lifestyle modifications, such as a nutrient-rich diet, targeted supplements, stress management practices, and exercise, to maximize the effectiveness of treatment and promote long-term health.
We warmly invite you to schedule a consultation with us and experience the exceptional care and personalized attention that sets Balance Clinic apart. Allow us to be your trusted partner in achieving optimal hormonal balance and reclaiming the vibrant, energetic life you deserve.
