Hormone pellets, also known as hormone replacement therapy (HRT) pellets, are a form of bioidentical hormone therapy that involves the insertion of small pellets containing hormones under the skin. These pellets slowly release hormones into the body to help balance hormone levels and alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances.
Hormone pellets are often used to treat conditions such as menopause, perimenopause, and hormone deficiencies in women.
Do these pellets have side effects? The office of Dr. Vanderloos is here to go over everything you need to know about hormone pellets and their potential side effects.
What are Bioidentical Hormones?
Your endocrine system produces hormones to regulate various bodily functions like growth, metabolism, and sleep. But, as you age, the body has less of these hormones, causing imbalances.
These hormonal imbalances may cause you to experience symptoms like fatigue and mood swings.
Bioidentical hormones are artificial hormones formulated to help fix imbalances.
The bioidentical hormones mimic the natural estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone your body produces. Doctors administer the bioidentical hormones as a daily medication, injection, or a hormone pellet which is usually implanted beneath your skin.
What are Hormone Pellets Used For?
Typically, doctors prescribe hormone pellets for one purpose – alleviating the symptoms of hormonal imbalance.
The hormone pellets can address issues like vaginal dryness, a common concern in women experiencing a decline in estrogen levels. Hormone pellets may also help manage the following symptoms from hormonal imbalances:
- Night sweats
- Hot flashes
- Painful intercourse
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
Side Effects of Hormone Pellets
While hormone pellets can be an effective treatment for various conditions, it is essential to be aware of potential side effects.
Breast tenderness: Hormone pellets can sometimes lead to breast tenderness or swelling.
Fluid retention: Hormones play a role in regulating fluid balance in the body, and hormone pellets can sometimes lead to fluid retention. This may cause bloating or swelling in some regions of the body.
Hair loss or growth: Hormone imbalances can also affect hair growth and loss. Hormone pellets may lead to changes in hair growth patterns, such as increased hair growth in unwanted areas or a decrease in hair thickness and volume.
Weight gain or loss: Hormonal imbalances can impact metabolism and body weight. Some individuals may experience weight changes while on hormone pellets, either gaining or losing weight.
Sleep disturbances: Hormonal imbalances can disrupt sleep patterns, and hormone pellets may have a similar effect. Some individuals may experience difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep while on hormone pellets.
When dealing with hormonal imbalances, it is imperative to seek services from trusted medical specialists.
The office of Dr. Vanderloos will help you pick the right hormone replacement therapy based on your needs.
For patients in Shreveport, LA, Dr. Vanderloos is your go-to practice for hormonal imbalances. Before prescribing an HRT method, Dr. Vanderloos will set up an appointment to discuss your symptoms, health goals, and medical history.
Afterward, she will prescribe a customized HRT method like the Biote Pellet.
This personalized hormonal replacement therapy can help with the discomforts of hormonal imbalance.
Hormone Pellet Therapy From a Trusted Source
Over the past 28 years, Dr. Vanderloos has helped women manage various types of effects, including hormonal imbalances.
Our NAMS-certified professional practice stands out for the compassion we offer all patients in need of medical care in the Shreveport area.
Patients can openly communicate their concerns without feeling judged.
Dr. Vanderloos tailors each treatment to individual needs to maximize treatment outcomes and effectiveness.
Contact us to schedule an appointment today.
Image Credits: Panchenko Vladimir/Shutterstock
