Achieving Hormonal Balance
for Optimal Health

The cost of bio-identical hormones can vary depending on several factors, including the specific hormone(s) prescribed, the dosage, and the form of administration (such as creams, gels, pellets, or injections). Book a consultation at Preventous’ Calgary Clinic to discuss whether hormone replacement suits you.

Perimenopause is the transitional phase preceding menopause, characterized by hormonal shifts and physiological changes as the body prepares for the cessation of menstruation. It can start several years before menopause and is marked by irregular menstrual cycles and decreased fertility. Hormone levels fluctuate during this phase, leading to variations in menstrual bleeding patterns, including changes in cycle length, intensity of bleeding, and missed periods. Symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, vaginal dryness, and sleep disturbances may also occur. The duration of perimenopause can vary, lasting from a few months to several years.

Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. The permanent cessation of menstruation occurs when the ovaries no longer release eggs and reproductive hormones such as estrogen and progesterone decline. Menopause is a clinical diagnosis, typically diagnosed when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. The average age of menopause is around 51 years, but it can occur as early as the 40s or as late as the 60s.

Common symptoms of menopause include:

•  Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Mood changes
• Weight Gain
• Vaginal dryness
• Vaginal atrophy
• Frequent urinary tract infections

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. It is characterized by high levels of androgens (male hormones) in the body, which can cause a range of symptoms, including irregular periods, acne, excessive hair growth (hirsutism), weight gain, and infertility.

In addition to the physical symptoms, PCOS can lead to long-term health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. The exact cause of PCOS is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to insulin resistance. This can trigger an overproduction of insulin and androgens in the body.

Diagnosis of PCOS typically involves:

• A physical exam.
• Blood tests to check hormone levels.
• An ultrasound to look for ovarian cysts.

Treatment for PCOS typically involves lifestyle changes such as weight loss and exercise to improve insulin sensitivity. Medications can be used to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce symptoms such as acne and excessive hair growth.

While there is no cure for PCOS, managing the symptoms can help improve the quality of life and reduce the risk of long-term health complications. Women with PCOS need to work closely with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses their specific symptoms and health needs.

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a combination of physical, emotional, and behavioural symptoms that occur during the lead-up to menstruation. The severity and duration of PMS symptoms can vary from person to person and may be influenced by factors such as age, lifestyle, and underlying medical conditions.

 Common symptoms of PMS include:

• Mood swings
• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Bloating
• Breast tenderness
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Food cravings
• Acne
• Sleep disturbances

Estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) can offer several benefits, particularly for individuals experiencing a decline in estrogen levels due to menopause.

Potential benefits of estrogen replacement include:

• Vaginal atrophy
• Hot flashes
• Mood changes

Estrogen replacement can protect against:

• Heart Disease
• Osteoporosis
• Colon cancer
• Urinary tract infections
• Alzheimer’s Disease
• Macular degeneration
• Insulin resistance

Estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) carries certain risks that should be considered. These risks may include:

• Breast tenderness
• Bleeding
• Bloating
• Mood changes
• Acne
• Thrombosis
• Fibroids
• Headaches
• Endometrial Cancer (unopposed estrogen)
• Gallstones
• Breast Cancer
• Weight Gain

Progesterone supplementation offers several potential benefits including:

• Reduced Premenstrual Syndrome Symptoms
• Reduced symptoms of menopause & perimenopause
• Protection against breast cancer
• Opposing estrogen- moderating many side effects including fluid retention, bloating, headaches, bleeding, fibroids and endometrial cancer
• Improved mood
• Improved sleep
• Fertility benefits

Progesterone supplementation, like any medical intervention, carries certain risks and potential side effects. Risks associated with progesterone supplementation include:

• Somnolence
• Breast/Nipple Tenderness

Andropause is a decline in testosterone. Testosterone is a hormone primarily produced by the testicles in men and the ovaries in women. While commonly associated with men, it also plays an important role in women’s health.

Testosterone has numerous benefits, including promoting muscle growth, improving bone density, and increasing libido. It plays a role in maintaining cognitive function, mood, and energy levels. Low levels of testosterone have been linked to various health problems, such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and depression. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can be used to treat men with low testosterone levels and can have positive effects on bone density, muscle mass, and cognitive function. Women with low testosterone levels may also benefit from TRT.

Symptoms of andropause can vary among individuals but may include:

• Decreased libido
• Erectile dysfunction
• Decrease in erectile quality
• Decrease ejaculation quality
• Decreased muscle mass
• Poor recovery post-workout
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Mood changes

Testosterone supplementation, when used appropriately and under medical supervision, can offer several potential benefits. These benefits may include:

• Improving bone density
• Increased muscle mass, strength and endurance
• Decreased visceral fat
• Enhanced mood
• Management of sexual dysfunction including increased libido, managing erectile dysfunction and erectile quality
• Cardioprotection
• Improved skin health and increased collagen

Testosterone supplementation also carries certain risks and side effects:

• Erythrocytosis
• Infertility
• Testicular atrophy
• Acne
• Hair loss (scalp)
• Hair growth (body)
• Aggression
• Transient fluid retention/edema
• Sleep apnea (rare)
• Transference with topical administration
• Blood clots, MI, CVA