Acupuncture News and Research
Curious to know the latest oriental medicine trends and findings? Keep up to date with my blog postings focused on relevant acupuncture news and research.
I’m experiencing breast tenderness and water retention. Is this normal?
Breast tenderness and water retention are common in the first 4-6 weeks of starting or adjusting estrogen therapy. These symptoms usually subside as your body adjusts. However: If symptoms persist or worsen, contact your provider. A dose adjustment or switching from oral to transdermal estrogen may help reduce these side Read more ...
I am taking Prometrium or micronized progesterone and do not feel like getting up in the morning. Should I continue?
Morning fatigue may be linked to your progesterone dosage or timing. Taking your dose at bedtime usually improves morning energy. If you’re experiencing adrenal fatigue, a different form of progesterone, such as sublingual progesterone, may be recommended. Discuss adjustments with your practitioner.
I take antidepressants, cholesterol pills, or diabetes meds prescribed by my physician. Will BHRT treatments affect their function?
Your BHRT practitioner will ensure treatments do not interfere with conventional medications. Over time, as your health improves, you may be able to reduce these medications in collaboration with your primary care doctor.
What will the cost of my prescriptions be?
The cost of prescriptions depends on your treatment plan, dosage, and pharmacy. Approximate monthly costs: Prometrium: $85 (2 caps/day) Compounded Progesterone: $55 (2 caps/day) Progesterone Cream: $35 (2 clicks/day) Biest Cream: $25 (1 click/day) Oral Estradiol: $65 (1 capsule/day) Testosterone Cream: $65 (2 clicks/day) Testosterone Injection: $35 (1 ml/week) Desiccated Read more ...
The lab said my blood work results should be received in three days. Why haven’t you received them yet?
We request specific hormone tests that may take longer to process to ensure accuracy, in some cases up to 1-2 weeks. To provide the most complete picture of your health, we wait until all test results are available before reviewing them with you.
I had my blood work done two weeks ago. Can I call and ask for my results over the phone?
Blood test results are not given over the phone or email due to clinic policy. Your practitioner will review the results with you during your next visit to ensure comprehensive discussion and treatment adjustments if necessary.
I was on vacation and ran out of my prescription for two weeks. Should I still do repeat bloodwork?
Running out of prescriptions impacts hormone levels, as hormones stored in fat tissue decline quickly without regular application. To ensure accurate results: Resume your prescription and wait at least 4 weeks before testing. Contact your pharmacy or Patient Care Coordinator for short-term refills if needed.
Why don’t you use saliva tests for hormone levels?
Saliva tests lack accuracy for monitoring BHRT progress. Serum blood tests are used instead, as they: Measure both free and bound hormones Provide a comprehensive view of hormone balance
How long is it safe to stay on hormone treatment?
There’s no fixed end date for BHRT use. Benefits include: Relief from menopausal symptoms Reduced risk of breast cancer (if started within 5 years of menopause) Improved bone and muscle health Lowered risks of certain chronic diseases Annual reviews with your practitioner are essential to weigh benefits and risks.
Why hasn’t the clinic received my bloodwork results?
Certain hormone tests take longer to process to ensure accuracy. The clinic waits for complete results to provide a comprehensive review during your next visit.