What causes a hormonal imbalance?
Hormonal imbalances rarely have a single, isolated cause. Your hormones function as an interconnected system, meaning changes in one area of the body can influence several others. While some imbalances develop gradually, others are triggered by lifestyle factors, medical conditions, or life transitions. Aging alone can affect how efficiently your body produces and regulates hormones, but additional stressors often accelerate or worsen these changes. Understanding the root cause of a hormone imbalance is essential, as effective treatment depends on addressing the underlying issue rather than just managing symptoms. Some of the most common causes of hormonal imbalances include: • Natural aging and age-related hormone decline • Menopause, perimenopause, and andropause • Chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels • Thyroid disorders and metabolic dysfunction • Insulin resistance or blood sugar imbalances • Certain prescription medications • Poor sleep quality or chronic sleep deprivation • Nutritional deficiencies • Underlying medical or endocrine conditions
How much does HRT normally cost?
The cost of hormone replacement therapy depends on the type of hormones prescribed, dosage, delivery method, and how closely your treatment plan is monitored. Some patients require injections, pellets, or oral medications, while others benefit from combination therapies. Lab testing and follow-up visits are also part of a comprehensive HRT program and can influence overall cost. Because hormone therapy is highly personalized, the best way to understand pricing is through an individual consultation. This ensures your treatment plan is tailored to your specific needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Can hormone replacement therapy increase breast size?
Hormone replacement therapy is not prescribed as a cosmetic breast enhancement treatment. However, in some women, estrogen therapy may lead to mild breast fullness or mild, temporary changes in breast tissue, especially during the early stages of treatment. These effects vary significantly from person to person and are not guaranteed. Any noticeable changes are typically modest and should not be considered a primary benefit of HRT. Hormone therapy is focused on restoring balance, relieving symptoms, and improving overall health rather than altering physical appearance.
What conditions can develop from hormone imbalances?
Untreated hormone imbalances can contribute to a wide range of health concerns, including menopause-related symptoms, thyroid disorders, insulin resistance, and adrenal dysfunction. Hormonal imbalances may also play a role in infertility, sexual dysfunction, mood disorders, chronic fatigue, weight gain, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular issues. Over time, imbalances can affect multiple body systems, reducing quality of life and increasing the risk of more serious complications. Early evaluation and appropriate treatment can help prevent long-term effects.
Can HRT help with weight loss?
HRT can support weight loss by addressing imbalances that contribute to slowed metabolism, fatigue, and increased fat storage. While HRT alone is not a weight loss program, optimizing hormone levels can make it easier to lose weight and maintain a lean body. For qualified candidates, Genesis Lifestyle Medicine also offers GLP-1 weight-loss treatments that can further support appetite control, metabolic health, and sustainable weight loss when combined with medical oversight and lifestyle guidance.
Can I treat hormone imbalances with diet alone?
A healthy diet plays an important role in supporting hormone health, but diet alone is often not enough to correct clinically significant hormone imbalances. While proper nutrition, regular exercise, stress management, and quality sleep can help optimize overall wellness, they may not restore hormone levels once deficiencies develop. In many cases, medical treatment combined with lifestyle changes is the most effective approach. Comprehensive lab testing helps determine whether hormone replacement therapy is appropriate and ensures treatment is both safe and effective.




