Feeling unusually tired, moody, or not like yourself can be discouraging. These changes often point to a hormonal imbalance, a common issue that affects both women and men as they age. Many people experience these symptoms without realizing they may be signs that their hormones have shifted enough to make them candidates for hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
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Understanding Hormone Replacement Therapy
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a medically supervised treatment designed for individuals whose bodies are no longer producing hormones at optimal levels. The therapy works by supplementing or restoring key hormones that decline naturally with age or as a result of medical conditions.
When prescribed and monitored appropriately, HRT can help restore energy, mental clarity, and physical comfort by addressing the underlying cause of symptoms, not just masking them.
Who Is a Good Candidate for HRT?
Ideal candidates for hormone replacement therapy are individuals who are ready to take a proactive approach to their health and well-being. They typically:
- Experience multiple ongoing symptoms consistent with hormonal imbalance
- Have confirmed deficiencies or imbalances through laboratory testing
- Are in generally good health and cleared for therapy by a qualified medical provider
- Understand that successful treatment requires ongoing monitoring and follow-up
- Are seeking an evidence-based, physician-monitored approach rather than supplements or self-directed options
Both women and men may be good candidates for HRT, depending on their age, symptoms, and hormone levels.
HRT for Women: Who Is a Candidate
Women may be candidates for HRT if they:
- Are going through perimenopause or menopause and experiencing symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, vaginal dryness, or low libido
- Have had a hysterectomy or oophorectomy, leading to sudden drops in estrogen
- Show laboratory-confirmed low hormone levels, especially estrogen or progesterone
- Are in good cardiovascular health and do not have contraindications like a history of breast cancer, blood clots, or uncontrolled hypertension
HRT may help improve quality of life by stabilizing mood, increasing bone density, improving sleep, and enhancing sexual well-being.
HRT for Men: Who Is a Candidate
Men may be candidates for testosterone replacement therapy (a type of HRT) if they:
- Exhibit symptoms of low testosterone (Low T) such as fatigue, decreased libido, loss of muscle mass, weight gain, or brain fog
- Have clinically verified low testosterone levels through blood testing
- Do not have contraindications such as prostate cancer, severe sleep apnea, or certain heart conditions
Properly supervised testosterone therapy can restore energy, improve mood, increase muscle mass, and enhance sexual performance.
At Fountain of You MD, candidacy is never assumed, it is carefully determined through a combination of detailed medical history, laboratory analysis, and open discussion of your personal health goals. This comprehensive approach ensures that every treatment plan is medically sound, safe, and tailored to your unique physiology.
When HRT May Require Special Consideration
While many adults are strong candidates for hormone therapy, certain medical conditions require additional care or alternative approaches. These include:
- A history of hormone-sensitive cancers (such as breast, uterine, or prostate)
- Uncontrolled cardiovascular disease or a recent heart attack, stroke, or blood clot
- Active liver disease
- Unexplained vaginal or uterine bleeding
- Genetic clotting disorders
These factors do not always rule out HRT, but they require a specialized, physician-guided approach to ensure safety.
7 Signs You May Benefit From HRT
Hormonal changes affect everyone differently, but certain patterns can suggest that your body is ready for professional evaluation. If several of the following signs feel familiar, it may be time to discuss HRT with a qualified medical provider.
1. Persistent Hot Flashes or Night Sweats
Frequent, intense waves of heat that interrupt daily life or disrupt sleep are classic signs of hormone imbalance. In women, they often point to low estrogen; in men, they may signal declining testosterone. When these episodes become regular and affect comfort or rest, hormone evaluation is recommended.
2. Chronic Fatigue and Low Energy
If you feel exhausted despite getting enough sleep, your hormone levels could be affecting your body’s ability to produce and use energy efficiently. Hormones play a key role in metabolism, stamina, and cellular repair, so a deficiency can leave you feeling drained and unmotivated.
3. Mood Changes, Irritability, or Anxiety
Hormones help regulate mood and emotional balance. When levels drop, you may experience irritability, anxiety, or sadness that feels disproportionate to daily stressors. If mood changes persist or interfere with quality of life, hormone therapy may help restore equilibrium.
4. Difficulty Sleeping or Insomnia
Hormonal fluctuations can disrupt sleep quality and circadian rhythm. If you have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up rested, low estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone may be contributing factors.
5. Unexplained Weight Gain or Difficulty Losing Weight
Hormones directly affect metabolism, muscle tone, and fat storage. A hormonal slowdown can make it harder to lose weight even with proper diet and exercise, especially around the midsection. Restoring balance can help support a healthier metabolism.
6. Reduced Libido or Sexual Discomfort
Declining hormone levels often affect sexual health. Women may notice vaginal dryness, discomfort during intercourse, or low desire. Men may experience reduced libido, erectile difficulties, or less satisfaction. Balanced hormones are essential for sexual confidence and comfort.
7. Decreased Bone Density or Increased Fracture Risk
Hormones are critical for maintaining bone strength. Low estrogen or testosterone can accelerate bone loss, increasing the risk of osteopenia or osteoporosis. HRT may be recommended to support long-term bone health and prevent future fractures.
If several of these signs sound familiar, your next step is testing your hormone levels. A medical evaluation can determine whether HRT is appropriate and safe for your specific health profile.
The Fountain of You MD Evaluation Process
Candidacy for HRT is determined through a careful, physician-led evaluation. Our team combines lab testing with clinical expertise to ensure hormone therapy is safe, appropriate, and tailored to each patient’s needs.
1. Comprehensive Lab Testing
We begin with hormone testing to identify specific imbalances and establish your baseline. Measuring estrogen, testosterone, thyroid hormones, and other key markers allows us to determine whether HRT is indicated.
2. Personalized Treatment Planning
If hormone therapy is appropriate, your provider creates a customized plan based on lab results, symptoms, and overall health. Your plan outlines which hormones, delivery methods, and dosages best support your needs.
3. Ongoing Monitoring and Follow-Up
Once treatment begins, regular appointments and follow-up labs ensure your hormone levels remain balanced and your symptoms improve safely over time. Adjustments are made as needed to keep therapy effective and aligned with your goals.
This comprehensive evaluation process reflects Fountain of You MD’s commitment to precision, safety, and personalized care, ensuring every patient receives treatment that is medically appropriate and individually optimized.
Are You a Candidate for HRT?
Hormone replacement therapy can help restore energy, focus, emotional stability, and overall vitality for those experiencing hormonal decline. If you recognize several of the signs discussed here, it may be time to find out whether you are a good candidate for HRT.
Schedule a consultation with Fountain of You MD at our Virginia Beach or Chesapeake locations to learn more about your hormone health and discover a personalized plan to help you feel like yourself again.
