Q: Which specialist should I consult to rule out hormonal imbalances?
A: You should consult an endocrinologist.
Q: Can saliva samples be used to measure hormone levels?
A: There is varying opinion among doctors as to the best method of measuring hormone levels.
Certain hormones, such as thyroid, are best tested with serum (blood) testing. However, hormones such as the adrenal hormones and steroid hormones can be assessed using salivary samples.
Q: What is bioidentical hormone replacement therapy?
A: Bioidentical hormone or natural hormone replacement therapy usually refers to compounds that have the same molecular and chemical structure as hormones that are naturally secreted in the body.
Q: Are bioidentical hormones safer compared to synthetic hormones?
A: Opinions vary. Advocates of bioidentical hormones claim they are safer and more effective but there is not enough evidence to validate these claims.
Q: Are bioidentical hormones approved for clinical use?
A: Some bioidentical hormones are manufactured by drug companies, and approved by the FDA, and sold in standard dose packs. Some preparations made by specialized pharmacies called compounding pharmacies, make the drug as per patient’s requirement.
Q: Can hormones affect your emotions?
A: Yes. Fluctuating levels of female hormones estrogen and progesterone can cause mood swings, low levels of serotonin cause depression, increased levels of norepinephrine cause arousal and aggression. Endorphins are associated with happy mood and oxytocin is referred to as the love hormone to cite a few examples.
