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Hormone Replacement Therapy Specialist

David L. Greenspan, MD

OB-GYN located in Phoenix, AZ

Hormones play an important role in reproduction and sexual health, but they also influence other functions. When hormones decline during perimenopause or as the result of an underlying condition or disease, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help by relieving the symptoms associated with hormonal decline or imbalance. At his Phoenix, Arizona practice, David L. Greenspan, MD, offers several methods of HRT to help women relieve bothersome symptoms and lead healthier lives. Call Dr. Greenspan for your HRT appointment today.

Hormone Replacement Therapy Q & A

What is hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?

Hormones play important roles in many functions, and when hormone levels decline, the decrease can cause unpleasant symptoms. HRT uses bio identical plant or synthetic derived hormones to supplement or replace hormones naturally produced by the body.

In gynecology, HRT focuses on replacing or supplement estrogen and progesterone.and sometimes testosterone  HRT can be very useful in helping to reduce and relieve the symptoms associated with menopause, as well as treating other conditions that cause or are caused by hormone imbalances.

What symptoms are associated with decreases in estrogen and progesterone?

The most common symptoms include:

  • Excessive perspiration and hot flashes
  • Weight gain
  • Unusual hair growth on the face or body or thinning hair on the scalp
  • Dry skin
  • Fatigue
  • Tender breasts
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Lack of sexual desire
  • Urinary incontinence
  • Headaches
  • Sleep problems

What kinds of HRT options are available?

HRT products are available in different forms, including pills, patches, suppositories, and gels. Dr. Greenspan will discuss all your options during your office visit so you can select the one that’s best for you.

What are bioidentical hormones?

The hormones used in HRT (bioidentical hormones) are created in a lab.

In traditional HRT, these hormones had a chemical structure that was unique and different from the chemical structure of the hormones your body naturally makes. As a result, traditional HRT was associated with significant risks that were caused by the body’s inability to properly process and eliminate the hormones, resulting in elevated levels of hormones.

Bioidentical hormones are synthetic hormones that have the same chemical structure as your own natural hormones. As a result, your body is able to recognize and process these hormones in the same way as it uses natural hormones, and it’s also able to eliminate excess hormones so they don’t “build up,” reducing your risks of unpleasant or even harmful side effects.

Is HRT safe?

Yes. Today’s HRT with bioidentical hormone products and transdermal/ skin application  is very safe. In addition to having an initial evaluation to ensure HRT is a good option for your needs.