Hormone Therapy

Menopause, as defined by the North American Menopause Society (NAMS), is reached 12 months after a woman's last menstrual period, marking the end of reproductive ability. Menopause typically occurs around age 52, though it can happen earlier or later, and is characterized by a significant decline in estrogen, progesterone, and androgen levels. This hormonal shift often leads to symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness, and can be a challenging transition for women if not treated appropriately.

Before menopause, women experience perimenopause, a transitional phase that can begin as early as their 40s and last several years.

During perimenopause, hormone levels fluctuate, causing irregular periods, sleep disturbances, and emotional changes. Many women also experience symptoms like headaches, weight gain, and heightened sensitivity to stress. The intensity and duration of these symptoms vary greatly between individuals, influenced by factors like genetics, lifestyle, and ethnicity.

Both NAMS and the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) recognize that while menopause is a natural life stage, its symptoms and related health risks, such as osteoporosis and heart disease, may need medical attention.

Ongoing research emphasizes the importance of personalized care to effectively manage symptoms and promote long-term well-being.

Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, often affecting the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and surrounding pelvic tissues. This misplaced tissue still behaves like normal endometrial tissue, thickening and shedding with each menstrual cycle, but it has no way to exit the body. This can lead to inflammation, severe pain, heavy periods, and even fertility issues. Over time, the condition can result in scar tissue, adhesions, and cysts.

Hormone therapy is a common and effective treatment option for managing endometriosis. By regulating the body’s hormone levels, hormone therapy can slow or stop the progression of the condition, reduce inflammation, and alleviate painful symptoms. Hormone therapy helps manage the symptoms of endometriosis, improving quality of life and allowing you to regain control of your health.

Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), formerly known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), is a common hormonal disorder affecting individuals of reproductive age. Characterized by a combination of symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen levels (which can lead to symptoms like acne and excessive hair growth), and polycystic ovaries, PMOS can significantly impact a woman's overall health and quality of life. It is also associated with increased risks of insulin resistance, weight gain, and fertility challenges.

Hormone therapy is an effective treatment option for managing the symptoms of PMOS. By regulating hormone levels and addressing underlying imbalances, hormone therapy can help restore regular menstrual cycles, reduce androgen levels, and alleviate symptoms such as acne and excessive hair growth.

Bioidentical Hormones are plant-derived substances designed to replicate the exact molecular structure of hormones naturally produced by the body, such as estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and DHEA.

They are often used in hormone replacement therapy to help menopausal women replenish diminished hormones. Since bioidentical hormones are chemically identical to those produced by the body, many women feel more comfortable using them as part of their treatment. Our hormone specialist will support you in finding the solution that is right for your body and your values!

One of the key benefits of Bioidentical Hormone Therapy (BHRT) is its ability to be customized. Compounded bioidentical hormones, which may come in various forms such as creams, gels, capsules, or suppositories, are made in specialized pharmacies. This allows for tailored dosing that fits each patient’s unique hormonal needs, offering a more personalized approach to care.

Many women are curious about exploring alternatives or complementary approaches to hormone therapy when navigating menopause. While some pharmaceutical options may be used to support symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD, many women feel drawn toward more natural and integrative forms of care.

Supportive non-hormonal options may include:

• Herbal remedies such as black cohosh, dong quai, St. John’s wort, hops, wild yam, ginseng, and evening primrose oil

• Integrative therapies including acupuncture, yoga, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

• Lifestyle and wellness practices that support stress regulation, sleep, and overall hormonal balance

While research around some of these therapies continues to evolve, many women find that an integrative approach—combining hormone therapy with supportive natural therapies—can offer meaningful relief and a more personalized path to wellbeing.

With education in both traditional and functional medicine, our hormone specialist approaches care holistically, thoughtfully combining treatments to honour each woman’s unique hormonal journey.