Bioidentical Hormone Therapy in Sioux Falls
Dr. Mary E. Meierhenry is a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist who offers individualized hormone care, including compounded bioidentical hormones, at her Sioux Falls office.
What Are Bioidentical Hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are hormones that are chemically identical to the hormones your body makes, such as estrogen and progesterone.
Some bioidentical hormones are available as FDA-approved products. Others are compounded, which means a pharmacy prepares them from a prescription for an individual patient. Compounded hormones are not FDA-approved.
During perimenopause and menopause, changing hormone levels may contribute to symptoms such as:
Hot flashes
Fatigue
Sleep problems
Brain fog
Mood changes
Intimacy concerns
Hormone therapy may help relieve these symptoms and improve quality of life for some women.
Bioidentical Hormones Are One of Several Options
Every woman’s symptoms and health history are different, so treatment is individualized after an evaluation. Depending on your needs, Dr. Meierhenry may discuss FDA-approved hormone therapy, compounded bioidentical hormones, or non-hormonal alternatives.
She will review the potential benefits and risks of each option with you, so you can make an informed decision together.
For vaginal dryness or discomfort related to lower estrogen, non-hormonal options such as MonaLisa Touch laser treatment may also be discussed. Hormone care is one part of our gynecology services for every stage of life.
What to Expect at Your Visit
Step 1: Consultation & Health History
We discuss your symptoms, menstrual history, medical background, and health concerns, including whether bioidentical hormones may be an option for you.
Step 2: Laboratory Evaluation
Based on your symptoms and medical history, lab work may be ordered to evaluate hormone levels and overall health. Blood work can be drawn during your office visit.
Step 3: Individualized Treatment Plan
At your follow-up appointment, we review your results and discuss a plan that may include FDA-approved hormone therapy, compounded bioidentical hormones, or non-hormonal alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are bioidentical hormones the same as hormone replacement therapy?
Bioidentical hormones are one type of hormone therapy. Hormone replacement therapy can use FDA-approved products, some of which are bioidentical, or compounded bioidentical hormones. Dr. Meierhenry can explain which options may fit your needs.
Are compounded bioidentical hormones FDA-approved?
No. Compounded hormones are prepared by a pharmacy for an individual patient and are not FDA-approved. FDA-approved hormone therapy products are also available, and we will review the options with you.
Do I need lab work first?
Based on your symptoms and medical history, lab work may be ordered to evaluate hormone levels and overall health. Blood work can be drawn during your office visit.
Do you accept insurance for hormone therapy?
We accept health insurance for hormone replacement therapy. Coverage varies by plan, so please call our office to confirm.
Questions About Bioidentical Hormones?
We accept health insurance for hormone replacement therapy. Contact us or call (605) 271-2202 to learn whether hormone therapy may be right for you.