The signals we send

Discover how hormonal health affects the body, mind, and skin. Explore the signs of hormonal imbalance and the benefits of modern hormone replacement therapy.

Wondering about your hormone levels? Now might be the perfect time.

Growing research and the success of advanced treatment options suggest that outdated views about hormone replacement therapy are worth revisiting.

Sex steroids, like estrogen and testosterone, are typically what come to mind when we talk about hormones. Despite their frequent mention, general awareness of what these molecules are and how they function remains limited, with conversations surrounding hormone health historically stigmatized.

We now know that hormonal health affects everyone, including you.

Researchers have been investigating hormones, the effects of hormonal imbalances, and the truth about hormone replacement therapy (HRT). The findings suggest a different story than the one we once knew - one that incorporates innovative science and medical advancements, enabling us to better assess the effectiveness of HRT and its role in our health and well-being.

HOW HORMONES SEND SIGNALS

A hormone is a chemical with a specific purpose - it acts as a messenger that journeys to distant organs to deliver its message. The message? A chemical signal that instructs the receiving cell to act.

The endocrine system is a vast communication network of endocrine glands that produce, store, and release hormones into the bloodstream. Once in the blood, the hormone travels to other systems to relay its signal to target cells.

The message is in motion, and the hormone's future relies on its ability to locate and bind to the cellular receptors situated on and in the target cell. If the signal is relayed successfully, the cell activity begins to change.

In this way, hormones help regulate and control various systems and processes that affect aging, reproduction, sexual function, mood, metabolism, skin health, and responses to injury and stress, highlighting the importance of a healthy, balanced system.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF HORMONAL IMBALANCE

Hormonal imbalance can potentially lead to changes that harm our bodies and minds. Recently, researchers have made astonishing linkages between sex-hormone levels and mental health. For example, women may be at a higher risk of experiencing symptoms of PTSD when their estrogen levels are low, and low levels of testosterone have been associated with worry and panic in both males and females.

Hormonal imbalances are often associated with various causes. Pivotal life phases like puberty and menopause affect hormone production and alter hormonal levels. Hormonal imbalances can occur when endocrine glands are damaged or malfunction. Lifestyle factors, including stress, obesity, poor nutrition, and environmental exposure to chemicals, also play a role.

Hormonal imbalance is unique to each person. Working with your medical provider can help rule out other causes of hormonal imbalances, such as autoimmune disorders, thyroid conditions, diabetes, or PCOS.

RESTORING BALANCE WITH HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY

Today, research shows that modern hormone therapy may lower the risk of heart attacks and decrease the likelihood of heart disease, the leading cause of death among U.S. women. Clinically, HRT's formulation, timing, and delivery methods are also improving, with treatments now fine-tuned to an individual's specific needs.

So, how does HRT work?

HRT corrects abnormal hormonal levels to a normal range by acting as a messenger, reintroducing signals that have been lost. It supplements the body with the hormones it lacks, typically estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone. This helps relieve symptoms and restore the system to a balanced state, supporting the body's longevity and vitality.

For providers, staying current with HRT research and understanding HRT's benefits and role in promoting positive health outcomes can help patients better grasp their options. For patients, scheduling an appointment with a healthcare provider to discuss testing and ask questions about modern treatment therapies and their side effects is a great first step. Together, patients and providers form a partnership that can address individual needs and ensure a balanced system.

Read more about the FDA's HRT decision.