When a woman has gone 12 months without a period – that’s the textbook definition of menopause. When I talk to women (lots of women!), it’s NEVER that simple…

The hormonal changes of menopause sure don’t happen “12 months after the last period” – Perimenopausal women complain of sleepless nights, mood swings, irregular bleeding, night sweats, hot flashes, weird urinary symptoms, dryness, “brain fog”, weight fluctuations, and lack of arousal for years before menopause. Since our hormones start fading in the 30’s these symptoms can last a decade before the official “menopausal” date. So many women get diagnosed with depression or think it’s just aging, but ladies that’s generally NOT the case.

The start of bioidentical hormones at RegenCen

We started RegenCen in 2020 with amazing treatments for vaginal rejuvenation and bladder control, and I wanted women to explore hormone replacement to help maintain their results and their overall wellbeing. Over and over women came back telling me their provider said hormones weren’t safe (see Dr. Lo’s comments on our previous blogs) or they were returning on an estrogen pill (well known to increase cardiovascular incidents). It was making us crazy! Simultaneously I was perimenopausal and running into the lack of resources. I knew the annoying hot flashes and night sweats would go away but I wanted to live my most optimal life (plus I have a strong family history of osteoporosis). The medical studies of the last 15 years show that not only are bioidentical hormones safe, they protect women from Alzheimer’s, cardiovascular disease and can practically eliminate osteoporosis. 70 is the new 50 and I want to enjoy those benefits!

The results of hormone replacement

“OMG I actually slept all night long.” “My skin isn’t so dry.” “I can work out and build muscle.” “My bone scan showed my osteopenia is better!” “I can recall words again.” “My belly bloating is so much better.” We hear these stories every day. It reminds me of Botox twenty years ago – people were skeptical and then came back with a smile saying, “I really didn’t think it would work this well!”

Does insurance cover hormone replacement?

Insurance does not cover our treatments. At RegenCen, we replace hormones using tiny pellets under the skin for 3 reasons:

1. Studies show estrogen MUST be replaced through the skin (not orally) to safely achieve all the health benefits.
2. Estrogen and testosterone pellets are absorbed consistently and slowly over 4 months, so levels remain very stable compared to patches or creams.
3. Pellets are more convenient than compounded creams for the same cost.

Hormone replacement 101

At any point, women can come in for hormone testing at RegenCen. After completing a symptom checklist, meeting with a provider, and blood testing for hormones, one of our providers can help you navigate these challenging years and help you feel like yourself again. Remember, women’s hormones often begin to drop in your 30’s. Low estrogen isn’t a problem in perimenopause, but testosterone, thyroid, and progesterone sure are! Replacing those hormones earlier provides amazing benefits. When estrogen falls at menopause, we add that to your hormone replacement regimen.

And, by the way, it’s never too late. Customized hormone replacement can be started years after menopause to prevent and treat osteoporosis, tiredness, insomnia, and other typical menopausal complaints. Combined with RegenCen treatments, we can also reverse the genitourinary symptoms of menopause – like overactive bladder, vaginal atrophy, stress incontinence, etc…

Ready to change your life? Call or text 231.347.7395 or visit www.regencenonlinebooking.com to make your hormonal consultation appointment. Self-care investments don’t get any better than this.

Courtney Lo