SERVICES
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
Feel great from the inside out!
Do any of these symptoms sound familiar?
Then you might have a hormone deficiency! Hormones are essential to our bodies, vital for our cells, organs, and metabolism. Hormone levels decline with age, disease, or even stress. When this happens, we begin an accelerated aging process, both physically and mentally - that’s where Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) comes in!
What is BHRT?
Bioidentical hormones are derived from plants and have been synthesized to be used similarly to our body’s own hormones. Our bodies recognize these bioidentical hormones and use them for health-related reasons!
There are five common types of bioidentical hormones:
Testosterone
Estradiol
Progesterone
Thyroid
DHEA
What to Expect
Upon expressing interest in the BHRT program, a consultation fee of $150 initiates the process, where you’ll receive blood work requisition and consent forms. Following the completion of your blood work, you’ll come in for a consultation, known as the Functional Metabolic Assessment with our Medical Director or BHRT prescriber. During this appointment, your blood work results will be reviewed, goals discussed, and vital signs measured. If you’re deemed a candidate, you’ll sign consent forms and pay the $540 annual fee.
A 3-month follow-up is scheduled, accompanied by additional blood work requisition. We’ll send your prescription(s) to the pharmacy for pickup or delivery (cost of medication depends upon your insurance provider). At the 3-month mark, a follow-up, either in-person or over the phone, where you’ll discuss your symptoms and your prescriber will make any adjustments to dosing if needed. Subsequent 3-month appointments are then scheduled, and you’ll be well on your way to achieve your best self!
BHRT FAQs
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BHRT is available at both EA Edmonton and EA St. Albert.
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Bioidentical hormones can be administered through many forms, including: pills, patches, gels/creams, and injections.
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There is no definite age to start BHRT as each client has different reasons for their interest in taking bioidentical hormones.
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For some clients, the effects can be relatively quick, however as the rate of cellular turnover is 3 months, some clients may take up to 3 months to feel the full effects.
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Some side effects may occur as your body isn’t used to the increased level of hormones. The side effects will subside as your body adjusts to the new hormone levels. Some common side effects include: weight gain, tiredness, acne, increased facial hair, headaches, bloating, and mood swings.
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BHRT is not covered through Alberta Health Care, but your main insurance provider may cover a portion of the annual fees and prescriptions included. We recommend checking with your insurance provider.
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Both men and women are candidates for BHRT! If you have a hormone deficiency or imbalance, then you may be a candidate for BHRT. We suggest completing a blood test prior to your consultation, so we can go over the results and determine if you are a candidate.
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Once your treatment begins, you can expect to see a decrease of symptoms, which will lead to an improvement in your overall well-being!
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The length of treatment varies per person. With ongoing follow-ups and blood work, we can continually determine your hormone levels and can make decisions on your dosages based on your test results.
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As everyone’s bodies are different, their reactions to stopping BHRT will vary.