While our BHRT program offers numerous benefits for many individuals, it is not suitable for everyone. You may not be a candidate for our BHRT program if:

• You have a history of hormone-sensitive cancers: Individuals with a history of breast, ovarian, uterine, or prostate cancer should avoid BHRT, as it may exacerbate these conditions.
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding: Hormonal treatments can affect both the mother and the baby, making BHRT unsuitable during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• You have active liver disease: Hormonal therapies can impact liver function, so individuals with active liver disease should not participate in BHRT.
• You have untreated or uncontrolled endocrine disorders: Conditions such as untreated thyroid disorders or adrenal gland disorders need to be managed before considering BHRT. However, we are able to offer assistance in managing these endocrine disorders outside of our BHRT program. Once properly managed, it may be possible to enroll in BHRT therapy.
• You have a history of thromboembolic events: Those with a history of blood clots, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), or pulmonary embolism (PE) should avoid BHRT due to the increased risk of these conditions.
• You have severe cardiovascular disease: Individuals with severe heart conditions may not be suitable candidates for BHRT, as it can potentially exacerbate cardiovascular issues.
• You are seeking hormone therapy for gender fluidity or gender reassignment: Our BHRT program does not currently cover hormone therapy for the development of secondary sexual characteristics, such as breast development, or for full gender transition. We recommend seeking specialized care for these specific needs.

If you have any of these conditions or concerns, please consult with our team to explore alternative treatments that may be more appropriate for your health needs.

The answer to this question depends on your specific provider and the coverage within your insurance policy.

Medical Services

Our hormone health program includes services from licensed healthcare providers, and many insurance policies do provide coverage for these types of services. However, insurance policies can vary greatly in terms of patient eligibility, provider eligibility, and percentage of coverage for the care you will receive in this program.

Throughout the program, following each appointment with your provider, you will receive a detailed receipt outlining the services you received. This receipt will include the credentials of the provider delivering the care. You can submit this receipt to your insurance company to request reimbursement according to your policy’s terms.

Please note that while many insurance policies cover the types of care included in our program, we cannot guarantee that yours does. It is your responsibility to confirm your eligibility and coverage details with your insurance provider.

Supplements

The supplements recommended in our hormone health program, such as Black Cohosh, Red Clover, Dong Quai, Ginseng, Fem-Matrix, and various Symphony Natural Health products, are generally not covered by insurance plans. However, you may be able to use funds from a health spending account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) to pay for these supplements. HSAs and FSAs allow you to set aside pre-tax dollars for qualifying medical expenses, which can include certain supplements. Check with your HSA or FSA administrator to confirm that the supplements recommended in our program are eligible expenses.

Some of the key supplements we may recommend include:

• Black Cohosh: Known to alleviate hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings by mimicking the effects of estrogen.
• Red Clover: Contains isoflavones that produce estrogen-like effects, reducing hot flashes and improving bone density.
• Dong Quai: Referred to as “female ginseng,” it is effective in treating hot flashes and menstrual irregularities.
• Ginseng: Boosts energy levels, combats fatigue, improves mood, and promotes a sense of well-being.
• Fem-Matrix: A blend of herbs designed for menopausal support, combining Black Cohosh, Dong Quai, and others.
• Symphony Natural Health products: A range of supplements tailored for menopause and perimenopause support, including Femmenessence Pro Harmony, Femmenessence Pro Perimenopause, Femmenessence Pro PostMenopausal, and pH Quintessence Pro.

Prescription Medications

Medications prescribed by your provider and filled at a pharmacy may be covered by your insurance plan, depending on your specific policy and formulary. Some of the medications we may prescribe could include:

• Progesterone: Prometrium capsules, compounded “Ultimate Sleep” capsules, or compounded “PMS cream” or “Calm cream.”
• Estrogen: Compounded Biest cream, compounded Estradiol cream, or compounded Estradiol capsules.
• Testosterone: Compounded testosterone cream for women or men, or Delatestryl injections for men.
• DHEA: Compounded DHEA cream or capsules for women or men, or compounded 7 Keto DHEA capsules for PCOS.
• Thyroid: Desiccated thyroid pellets (Armour Thyroid or NP Thyroid) or compounded T3 capsules.
• Pleasure Creams: Compounded creams containing various ingredients like testosterone, DHEA, sildenafil, and others.
• Miscellaneous: Compounded “Miracle Hair Growth Foam” containing latanoprost, finasteride, and minoxidil.

If you have any further questions about potential insurance coverage for our hormone health program, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you understand your options and make the most of your healthcare benefits.

While Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) uses hormones that originate from natural plant sources, these hormones undergo extensive chemical processing to become identical to those produced by the human body. This processing allows the hormones to function effectively within the body, mimicking natural hormone activity. However, it’s important to understand that the term “natural” does not inherently guarantee the safety or efficacy of BHRT.

The bioidentical hormones used in BHRT Edmonton are designed to closely replicate the molecular structure of endogenous hormones, which can lead to better compatibility and fewer side effects for some patients. Despite their natural origins, the effectiveness and safety of BHRT depend on proper administration and monitoring by a qualified healthcare provider.

Patients considering BHRT Edmonton should have a thorough discussion with their healthcare provider to understand the benefits, risks, and suitability of bioidentical hormones for their specific health needs. This personalized approach ensures that the therapy is tailored to individual health profiles, maximizing the potential benefits while minimizing risks.

For more comprehensive information on the natural aspects of BHRT and its suitability for you, consult with a healthcare provider experienced in administering BHRT Edmonton.

For further reading, visit the University of Alberta Folio article.

Weight gain is not a common side effect of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT Edmonton). In fact, by balancing hormones, BHRT can help alleviate symptoms that might contribute to weight gain, such as fatigue, low metabolism, and insulin resistance. Some patients even report weight loss and improved body composition due to restored hormonal balance. However, individual responses can vary, and it’s important to monitor changes with a healthcare provider. Maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise is also crucial for managing weight during BHRT. For those considering BHRT Edmonton, regular consultations can help track and manage any weight-related changes.

For additional insights, visit Mayo Clinic.

Traditional Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) has faced scrutiny due to potential risks, including an increased risk of breast cancer, blood clots, and heart disease. These risks were highlighted by studies such as the Women’s Health Initiative, which led to a decline in HRT use. However, recent research indicates that HRT can still be safe and effective for many women, particularly when started near menopause and used for the shortest duration necessary. It’s essential to weigh the risks and benefits with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action, especially when considering options like BHRT in Edmonton.

The decision to stop taking bioidentical hormones is highly individualized and should be based on health status, symptoms, and personal preferences. Typically, women may continue BHRT as long as the benefits, such as relief from menopausal symptoms and improved quality of life, outweigh the risks. This decision is usually made through regular consultations with a healthcare provider who can assess ongoing needs and monitor for potential side effects. Some women may choose to continue BHRT well into their senior years, while others may decide to stop earlier. For residents of Edmonton, ongoing assessments and consultations can help tailor the duration of BHRT.

The choice between traditional Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) depends on individual health needs and preferences. BHRT uses hormones that are chemically identical to those the body produces, potentially leading to better tolerance and fewer side effects. Traditional HRT, on the other hand, uses synthetic hormones, which might not be as well tolerated by some individuals. Both therapies aim to alleviate symptoms of hormonal imbalance such as hot flashes, mood swings, and decreased libido. For personalized advice, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider experienced in BHRT Edmonton.

Individuals with a history of hormone-sensitive cancers, blood clots, or liver disease may not be suitable candidates for Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT). Those with untreated thyroid disorders, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, or severe liver dysfunction should also avoid BHRT. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine eligibility based on individual health conditions and medical history. Comprehensive evaluations ensure that BHRT Edmonton is both safe and effective for the patient.

For more information, visit Folio – UAlberta.

In Alberta, naturopathic doctors (NDs) are not authorized to prescribe bioidentical hormones. Only licensed medical doctors (MDs), nurse practitioners (NPs), and other healthcare providers with prescribing authority can prescribe bioidentical hormones. However, having an integrative team at Red Leaf Wellness brings the best of both Eastern and Western medicine in support of whole body health. While NDs cannot prescribe BHRT, they play a crucial role in providing holistic and supportive care. Our unique combination of a functional medicine provider and a nurse practitioner ensures that you receive comprehensive care. This collaboration allows us to address not only your hormonal needs but also your overall well-being, creating a powerful and effective approach to health that very few BHRT providers offer. For more information, you can check Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors and Government of Alberta – Health Services.

Many commonly prescribed bioidentical hormones, such as Estrace (estrogen) and Prometrium (progesterone), are produced by drug companies and are approved and regulated by Health Canada. These products have undergone rigorous testing to ensure they meet safety, efficacy, and quality standards.

In addition, specialized compounding pharmacies can prepare custom-made bioidentical hormone formulations based on a healthcare provider’s prescription. These compounded formulations are tailored to meet individual patient needs and may come in various forms, such as capsules, creams, gels, tablets, suppositories, or nasal sprays.

While the individual ingredients used in compounded bioidentical hormones are approved by Health Canada and can be found in commercially available products, the specific compounded formulations are not directly approved or regulated by Health Canada. This is because the customized nature of these preparations, including their unique concentrations, makes it impractical for Health Canada to approve each individual formulation. Any hormone therapy we prescribe, whether Health Canada-approved or compounded, is always within the federal prescribing guidelines to ensure your safety and well-being.

It is important to note that compounded bioidentical hormones may vary in quality and consistency compared to Health Canada-approved products. However, reputable compounding pharmacies adhere to strict quality control measures and industry standards to ensure the safety and quality of their formulations.

Our healthcare providers work closely with patients to determine the most appropriate form of bioidentical hormone therapy based on individual needs, preferences, and medical history. We consider both Health Canada-approved products and custom-compounded formulations to develop personalized treatment plans that are safe and effective for each patient.

Yes, you need a prescription for Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT). A healthcare provider, such as a doctor or a nurse practitioner, must evaluate your hormone levels and overall health to determine the appropriate treatment plan. The prescription ensures that you receive the correct type and dosage of hormones tailored to your specific needs. For more information, visit the North American Menopause Society and WebMD.

The average cost of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) can vary depending on several factors such as the specific hormones prescribed, the dosage, and the frequency of treatment. On average, BHRT costs range from $200 to $500 per month. This estimate includes the cost of consultations, lab tests, and the hormones themselves. It’s important to note that insurance coverage for BHRT can vary, so check with your provider to understand what is covered under your plan.