Hormone Therapy Appointments

How Hormone Therapy Is Prescribed in My Practice
Hormone therapy is never prescribed as a “quick fix” or one-size-fits-all approach in my practice. Menopause and perimenopause are complex, and every woman’s symptoms, health history, risks, and goals are different.
My approach is evidence-based, individualized, and focused on helping you feel like yourself again — safely and confidently.
Step 1: Comprehensive Initial Assessment (75 Minutes)
Your first appointment is a deep dive into your health.
We review:
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Your symptoms and how they impact your quality of life
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Menstrual and reproductive history
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Past medical history
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Family history
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Cardiovascular, breast cancer, and bone health risk factors
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Current medications and supplements
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Sleep, stress, exercise, and nutrition
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Previous hormone therapy experiences (if applicable)
This appointment is designed to help me understand the full picture before discussing whether hormone therapy is appropriate for you. Hormone therapy may be discussed during this visit, but it is not guaranteed or automatically prescribed at the first appointment.
Step 2: Blood Work & Screening Assessment (in initial assessment)
If appropriate, individualized blood work and/or additional testing will be ordered.
We also review important screening requirements and risk assessments such as:
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Mammograms
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Pap tests
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Bone health
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Cardiovascular risk factors
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Blood pressure
Hormone therapy should be prescribed safely and responsibly, which means ensuring important screening and monitoring are up to date whenever possible.
Step 3: Risk vs. Benefit Discussion (first + second visit)
At your follow-up appointment (1-3 weeks after your initial) we review your results in detail and discuss:
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Whether you are a candidate for hormone therapy
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The potential benefits for your symptoms and long-term health
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Potential risks and contraindications
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Non-hormonal options
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Different forms of hormone therapy (patches, pills, inserts, etc.)
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What realistic expectations should look like
This is a collaborative discussion. My goal is for you to feel informed, empowered, and confident in your decisions — not pressured.
Step 4: Starting Hormone Therapy (second visit)
If hormone therapy is appropriate for you, treatment is started cautiously and strategically.
This may include:
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Estrogen therapy
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Progesterone therapy
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Vaginal estrogen
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Other menopause-supportive treatments when indicated
Dosing is individualized and based on:
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Symptoms
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Medical history
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Risk factors
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Sensitivity to hormones
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Treatment goals
Starting low and adjusting carefully is often the safest and most effective approach.
Step 5: Follow-Up & Monitoring (every 3-12 months)
Hormone therapy requires ongoing monitoring and adjustments.
Follow-up appointments are important to:
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Assess symptom improvement
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Monitor side effects
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Adjust dosing if needed
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After dosing adjustment we will connect after 3 months and then 6-12 months ongoing unless you experience side effects/updates to your health/need a dose adjustment
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You will require an appointment before receiving a refill to review the above
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Review blood pressure and other health markers
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Ensure treatment remains safe and appropriate over time
Hormone therapy is not a “set it and forget it” prescription. Your body, symptoms, and needs can change over time.
Important Things to Know Before Booking
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Hormone therapy is not prescribed to every patient.
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Prescribing decisions are based on safety, evidence, medical history, and individualized assessment.
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Some patients may need updated screening tests before starting therapy.
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Treatment plans often include nutrition, lifestyle, supplements, sleep support, and exercise strategies in addition to hormone therapy.
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My goal is not just symptom relief — it is helping you feel strong, informed, supported, and healthy long-term.
