Everything You’ve Ever Wanted to Know About HRT Pellets
Pellet Hormone Replacement FAQ
We know that Hormone Replacement Therapy is essential for managing severe menopause (or andropause, aka “manopause!”) symptoms, and hopefully there is an easy way to deliver it, right? Fortunately, there is! IntimMedicine offers an easy outpatient procedure to place a bioidentical hormone pellet under the skin. Outta sight, outta mind, and you get to start living your life again!
There are even newer ways to provide bioidentical therapy to menopausal women that can be continued at home. These newer methods are part of our focus on patient-controlled hormone delivery.
What is it?
Pellets are compounded bioidentical hormones for women (our team of experts will determine exactly what’s right for you – the right amount can help you regain your hormonal balance). Pellet therapy is FDA approved for men, but used in women when other therapies are poorly tolerated or not available. Pellets are typically naturally occurring hormones that are pressed into a solid, little insert, about the size of a grain of rice (see image above). They have been used for more than 50 years. Recent guidelines from the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health focus on safer, patient-controlled therapies which are also available from IntimMedicine.
How does it work?
Your pellet, or other dosage forms of bioidentical hormone therapy, will release a small amount of your hormonal regimen straight into your bloodstream, similar to what your ovaries or testes would normally have produced in your younger years. Research shows that in men pellets are able to deliver a consistent level of hormones to your body, while in women, creams, gels, or pills are preferred. Non-oral therapies, including pellets, creams, gels, patches and vaginal rings reduce the risk of blood clots (venous thrombosis) associated with most oral hormone replacement therapy because the hormones released from pellets enter the bloodstream directly and do not cause changes in blood clotting factors made in the liver the way most oral medications can. It’s a win-win!
How is it used?
Hormone Replacement Pellets are used like any other Hormone Replacement Therapy to help our bodies regain some of its hormonal balance, which will improve everything from the emotional roller coaster to hot flashes. The pellet is just a convenient delivery method! It’s not for everyone, but getting your hormones “just right” no matter the method is critical.
How long does the procedure take?
It is a quick and painless (with numbing medication) outpatient office procedure. We will insert the HRT pellet right into your hip, abdomen or buttock area, and you’ll be on your way and back to your life!
How long till I see results?
It will only take 7-10 days for you to notice your HRT Pellet working on your symptoms.
How long will my pellet last?
HRT Pellets typically last 3-6 months for men and women.
How can I make an appointment? Call us at 202.293.1000 or email us to set up a consultation appointment with one of our specialists here in Washington, DC. Don’t wait to get back to living your normal life – call us today!