Signs That Hormones Are Shifting—and How BHRT Can Help

Hormones act as the body’s internal communication system, sending essential chemical signals that regulate growth, metabolism, mood, immune function, sleep, and age-related changes. When hormone production shifts—due to menopause, andropause, chronic illness, or aging—the effects can be widespread and disruptive.

Key hormones such as testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) play critical roles in maintaining physical strength, cognitive clarity, emotional stability, and overall vitality. As levels decline or become imbalanced, many individuals experience symptoms that significantly affect quality of life (Basaria, 2013; Faubion et al., 2015).

Symptoms of Testosterone and DHT Deficiency or Imbalance

Testosterone is essential for both men and women, though present in higher concentrations in men. It supports:

• Muscle mass and strength

• Bone density

• Fat distribution

• Red blood cell production

• Libido and sexual function

• Energy and motivation

Testosterone also influences neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which affects mood, sleep, appetite, and emotional regulation (Zhao et al., 2016).

DHT (Dihydrotestosterone)

DHT is a potent androgen formed when testosterone is converted by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. It plays a key role in:

• Male sexual development

• Muscle strength

• Fat oxidation

• Libido

• Neuromuscular function

Imbalances in testosterone or DHT may contribute to both deficiency symptoms and androgen-related concerns when levels are not properly regulated (Traish, 2021).

Common symptoms of testosterone and DHT imbalance include:

• Persistent fatigue

• Decreased libido

• Achy joints or muscle weakness

• Difficulty sleeping

• Rapid or unexplained weight gain

• Loss of lean muscle mass

• Brain fog or memory issues

• Weakened immune response

• Hair thinning or hair loss

(Basaria, 2013; Rubinstein et al., 2019)

Effects of Estrogen and Progesterone Imbalance

Estrogen refers to a group of steroid hormones primarily produced by the ovaries during reproductive years and in smaller amounts by the adrenal glands and peripheral tissues after menopause. Progesterone plays a vital role in:

• Nervous system protection

• Cardiovascular health

• Breast tissue regulation

• Sleep quality

• Brain cell repair and neuroprotection

Even during perimenopause and postmenopause, progesterone remains critical for neurologic stability and overall hormonal balance (Stuenkel et al., 2015).

Symptoms of estrogen and progesterone imbalance may include:

• Insomnia or disrupted sleep

• Tension or migraine headaches

• Dry, thinning skin

• Heart palpitations

• Weight gain (especially midsection)

• Decreased libido

• Joint pain or stiffness

• Memory or concentration difficulties

• Hot flashes and night sweats

• Mood changes or anxiety

(The North American Menopause Society, 2022)

How Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) Can Help

As hormone levels decline with age, symptoms often appear gradually but progressively worsen. Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) uses hormones derived from plant sources such as soy or yams that are molecularly identical to those naturally produced by the human body.

Because of this structural match, bioidentical hormones are typically well-tolerated and efficiently metabolized. When prescribed and monitored appropriately, BHRT can help:

• Restore hormonal balance

• Improve energy and sleep

• Enhance mood and cognitive function

• Support muscle and bone health

• Reduce hot flashes and night sweats

• Improve libido and metabolic health

(Faubion et al., 2015; Stute et al., 2018)

BHRT is effective for both men experiencing andropause and women experiencing perimenopause or menopause, offering symptom relief while supporting long-term health.

Personalized Care at Hormone Treatment Centers

At Hormone Treatment Centers, hormone therapy is never one-size-fits-all. Our medical team develops customized BHRT treatment plans based on comprehensive lab testing, symptoms, and individual health goals.

If you’re experiencing signs of hormonal imbalance, our team can help you restore balance and reclaim your quality of life.

Contact us today to learn more.

References

Basaria, S. (2013). Androgen deficiency in men: Recognition and management. Nature Reviews Endocrinology, 9(2), 107–118.
Faubion, S. S., et al. (2015). Management of menopausal symptoms with hormone therapy. Climacteric, 18(3), 298–305.
Rubinstein, A. L., et al. (2019). Opioid-induced androgen deficiency and its clinical impact. Pain Medicine, 20(2), 362–371.
Stuenkel, C. A., et al. (2015). Treatment of menopausal symptoms: Endocrine Society clinical practice guideline. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 100(11), 3975–4011.
Stute, P., et al. (2018). The impact of micronized progesterone on breast cancer risk. Climacteric, 21(2), 111–122.
The North American Menopause Society. (2022). 2022 hormone therapy position statement. Menopause, 29(7), 767–794.
Traish, A. M. (2021). Testosterone and health: Implications for muscle, fat, and metabolism. Andrology, 9(4), 1260–1272.
Zhao, R., et al. (2016). Testosterone and central nervous system function. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 10, 62.