Hormone pellets are small, custom-compounded implants that deliver hormones into the body. They restore balance to hormone levels, which can fluctuate due to aging or other factors. This therapy provides a steady supply of hormones, addressing symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances.
Understanding Hormone Pellets
Hormone pellets are made from bioidentical hormones, identical in molecular structure to those naturally produced by the body. Derived from plants like yams or soy, they are pressed into small, solid cylinders, often the size of a grain of rice.
This bioidentical structure allows the body to recognize and utilize them similarly to its own hormones, unlike synthetic hormones. Common hormones delivered include estradiol (estrogen) and testosterone, both important for various bodily functions.
How Hormone Pellets Work
The insertion of hormone pellets is a minor in-office procedure, usually performed under local anesthetic. A healthcare professional makes a small incision, typically in the hip or buttock area, and then inserts the pellet subcutaneously, just beneath the skin. The incision is then closed, often with Steri-Strips or a single stitch.
Once implanted, the pellets slowly dissolve over several months, continuously releasing a consistent dose of hormones directly into the bloodstream. This sustained, steady release mimics the body’s natural hormone production more closely than other delivery methods. Unlike oral or topical therapies, which can cause fluctuating hormone levels, direct bloodstream delivery also bypasses the liver, avoiding certain metabolic changes.
Common Uses and Expected Outcomes
Hormone pellets are used to manage symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances in both men and women. For women, this often includes addressing symptoms of menopause and perimenopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. They can also help with improved energy levels, mood stability, better sleep quality, and increased bone density.
Men experiencing andropause, a decline in testosterone levels, may find relief from symptoms like fatigue, decreased libido, and muscle loss with testosterone pellets. Outcomes for men include enhanced energy, improved mood, increased libido, and better body composition. The therapy restores hormone levels to an optimal range, alleviating these concerns and improving overall well-being.
Considerations Before Treatment
Before starting hormone pellet therapy, a thorough medical evaluation is typically conducted, including blood tests to assess current hormone levels. This helps determine suitability for treatment and guides the personalized dosage. A discussion of the individual’s medical history is also an important part of this assessment.
The duration of effect for hormone pellets typically ranges from 3 to 5 months in women and 4 to 6 months in men, though this can vary based on individual metabolism and activity levels. Re-insertion is necessary once the pellets have dissolved, with frequency determined by follow-up lab work and symptom evaluation.
Potential temporary effects after insertion can include minor bruising, tenderness, or swelling at the insertion site. Some individuals may also experience mild hormonal fluctuations, such as headaches or temporary breast tenderness, as their body adjusts. Consulting with a qualified healthcare provider is important for personalized advice and ongoing monitoring.