Hormone Replacement Therapy Specialist

Valentin Tureanu, MD, NCMP

Reproductive Endocrinologist & Certified Menopause Practitioner located in Chicago, IL & Downers Grove, IL

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can play a significant role in relieving the symptoms of menopause, and it’s also effective in treating other issues like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). To maximize the benefits of HRT, you need a skilled practitioner with considerable experience in optimizing the medications and the dosing. As a top-ranked OB/GYN, Dr. Valentin Tureanu, MD, NCMP, creates patient-centered treatment plans to help women in Chicago and Downers Grove, Illinois, improve their health and relieve symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances. To find out more about HRT, call Dr. Tureanu or use our online system to schedule an appointment today.

Hormone Replacement Therapy

What is hormone replacement therapy?

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) uses bioidentical hormones to replace or supplement the hormones naturally produced by your body. As we get older or as a result of certain conditions or diseases, our bodies begin producing fewer hormones -- specifically, estrogen and progesterone. Although these hormones are primarily associated with sexual function, they actually play far more diverse roles in your health and wellness, which means when your levels of these hormones decline, you can experience a wide array of symptoms that can take a toll on your life and your health. Hormone replacement therapy helps relieve these symptoms and reduces the risks of serious side effects.

What are “bioidentical” hormones?

Bioidentical hormones are lab-created hormones that are “made” using the same chemical structure as the hormones that your body naturally makes. Traditional HRT relies on synthetic hormones that have a slightly different chemical structure. As a result, the excess hormones could not be eliminated as well by the body’s natural waste disposal processes, resulting in increased risks for several serious medical problems.

Because bioidentical hormones have the same chemical structure as natural hormones, the body recognizes, processes, and eliminates the hormones in the same manner as natural hormones, so you derive the benefits without the increased risks associated with traditional HRT.

What symptoms are associated with hormonal imbalance?

Hormonal imbalances can cause an array of symptoms, including:

  • Irregular periods
  • Sleep problems including insomnia
  • Hot flashes and night sweats
  • Dry, itchy skin
  • Thinning hair on your scalp and excess facial hair growth
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Moodiness
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Increased risk of urinary tract infections
  • Weight gain
  • Difficulty getting pregnant

The type and number of symptoms depends on the level of hormone dysfunction and other factors.

What issues can be treated with bioidentical HRT?

Hormone replacement therapy can be useful in treating issues like:

  • Menopause side effects
  • Abnormal uterine bleeding due to hormonal fluctuations
  • PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome)
  • Low sex drive
  • Vaginal dryness and painful intercourse
  • Irregular periods
  • Uterine fibroids

How are hormones administered?

There are several types of hormone replacement products available, including pills, patches, creams, and other products. During your visit, Dr. Tureanu can explain all the options and help you select the one that’s best for your needs. Plus, your levels of hormones will be monitored throughout your treatment to ensure your therapy remains optimized for you.