Hormone Replacement Therapy Q&A

If you're experiencing uncomfortable side effects due to the natural aging process, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can restore your body's balance and improve your quality of life. At Sugarland Primary Care Physicians in Sugarland, Texas, Chinwe Okafor, MD, offers hormone replacement therapy that can help you feel like yourself again. To schedule your appointment, call the office or book a consultation online today.

What is hormone replacement therapy?

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a safe and effective treatment used to minimize the negative effects of a hormonal imbalance. This type of treatment uses synthetic or natural hormones, such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, to restore your hormone levels to a healthy state.

In addition to easing uncomfortable side effects caused by aging, hormone replacement therapy can also improve symptoms of cancer treatment, fibromyalgia, and insulin resistance. 

The hormones used in hormone replacement therapy mimic the ones your body naturally produces, lowering the risk of side effects and ensuring successful treatment.

What does hormone replacement therapy help with?

Hormones are chemical messengers that control most of your basic bodily functions, including your heart rate, appetite, and libido. When your hormones are balanced, you feel good and have plenty of energy. However, if you experience a hormonal imbalance, it can harm your physical and mental health, as well as your general well-being.

Sometimes, hormonal imbalances occur due to a chronic illness like thyroid disease. Other times, they occur due to the natural aging process. Fortunately, with prompt diagnosis and treatment, it’s possible to minimize uncomfortable symptoms and prevent further complications.

What are the symptoms of a hormonal imbalance?

The symptoms of a hormonal imbalance vary. Common indications of a hormonal imbalance include:

• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Irritability
• Sleep disturbances
• Loss of interest in sex
• Erectile dysfunction
• Weight gain

If your hormones are out of balance, you might also experience memory loss or brain fog. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help, which Dr. Okafor provides.

How is HRT administered?

At Sugarland Primary Care Physicians, Dr. Okafor offers hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in several forms, including patches, pills, creams, injections, and oral medications.

The type of hormone replacement therapy that’s right for you depends on your overall health, medical history, and individual treatment goals. Following an exam and in-office discussion, Dr. Okafor can develop a custom treatment plan that aligns with your needs.

Is hormone replacement therapy safe?

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)  is well-tolerated by most people. In the first few weeks of treatment, it’s normal to experience side effects like acne, bloating, weight gain, and fatigue. Usually, these symptoms subside once your body adjusts to the hormone medications. 

If you experience side effects lasting more than a week, let Dr. Okafor know. She can tweak your treatment plan as necessary to ensure you achieve the best possible results.

To explore hormone replacement therapy as a treatment option, schedule an appointment at Sugarland Primary Care Physicians. Call the office or request an appointment online today.