HRT, or hormone replacement therapy, encompasses all types and forms of hormones available. Bioidentical hormones (such as transdermal beta-17 estradiol and micronized progesterone) are one category of HRT, while the other category includes progestins, conjugated equine estrogen, and medroxyprogesterone.

At Longev Clinic, we prioritize evidence-based treatments and only utilize forms that have research to support their effectiveness and safety. The specific forms we prescribe are called bioidentical hormones which are indeed evidenced to be effective and safe.It is important to note that when it comes to certain hormones, research strongly supports the use of transdermal delivery for hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which has shown to be both effective and safe.

When prescribed at a therapeutic dose by naturopathic doctors that focus their practices in HRT / BHRT, you can access the most effective and safest formulations to achieve optimal benefits. Bioidentical hormones are FDA-approved, commercially available, and produced by pharmaceutical companies. However, commercial options don't allow for individualized adjustments, which is where compounded formulations play a key role. The compounding pharmacies we use are highly regulated, undergo regular inspections, and adhere to strict quality standards, ensuring patient safety. They also allow us to prescribe dosing specific to our patient. At Longev, we focus on safety, and evidence when prescribing hormones.

We hope that this helps to clarify the differences in terminology, however, please keep in mind this is a very nuanced topic that is difficult to simplify. Our naturopathic doctors are here to answer any questions that you may still have and to ensure you that you feel comfortable and safe in the choices that you make for your health in this chapter of life.

What to expect during your initial appointment

Our menopause focused naturopathic doctors will listen as well as support you on a holistic level while addressing your specific symptoms. They will discuss hormone replacement therapy, supplements, lifestyle, diet, exercise, stress reduction and they will use bloodwork to assess and monitor. At Longév, the goal is to reduce or elimiate symptoms and get you feelinf like your normal self (maybe even better!) as well as focus on longevity and disease prevention.

Step 1 and 2 Assessment and Testing

Step 1:

One hour in depth consultation assessing all aspects of health contributing to your perimenopausal / menopausal symptoms you are experiencing. This can be in person or if preffered virtual. 

Step 2:
Blood work screening completed at your local blood lab. 

Education and Hormone Replacement Therapy Implementation

Step 3:

45 min virtual or in-person follow up
- Blood work interpretation
- Benefits and risk evaluation
- Detailed instructions on how to implement HRT and what to expect

Ongoing Support

Step 4:

Follow up monitoring appointments range between 2-6 months with appropriate blood work when indicated. These would be ongoing when you are on hormone replacement therapy.