A woman in black athletic wear exercising, representing physical vitality through hormone replacement therapy

Hormone Balancing In Dessau

Fast appointments (self payers or privately insured patients only)

Online doctor consultations and testing at our office in Berlin Prenzlauer Berg

On-demand coaching from doctors for your current problems, needs and healthspan goals.

Anticipating and Preventing

A third of a woman's life occurs after menopause, which is about 33 years based on an average menopause age of 51 and an EU life expectancy of 84. Furthermore, women can experience perimenopausal symptoms for as long as 10 years. This means approximately half of a woman's life is spent managing various symptoms that can impair both quality of life and productivity.

Individuals undergoing HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) often describe a return to their normal selves. Therefore, identifying the correct treatment frequency and dosage represents a crucial investment in the upcoming 30-40 years of one's life.

Here is a basic guide to self-diagnosing which hormone might be deficient:

  • Low Progesterone: Feelings of anxiety, irritation, and being overstimulated may occur.
  • Low Estrogen: You might experience sensations of dryness, heat, and tearfulness.
  • Low Testosterone: This may lead to feelings of fatigue, weakness, and a lack of motivation.

It is important to remember that each woman's experience with symptoms varies in kind and severity. Hormones can have overlapping or synergistic effects. Addressing and resolving symptoms is typically a gradual, iterative journey.

A medical graph showing fluctuating estrogen and testosterone levels managed by hormone replacement therapy
A woman meditating cross-legged in a bedroom, highlighting the mental wellness focus of hormone replacement therapy.

How Hormonal Imbalances Manifest in the Body

  • Sleep: Deficient Progesterone can result in interrupted sleep and waking during the night (due to a loss of the calming GABA effect), while low Estrogen is associated with night sweats and waking up early in the morning.
  • Mood: A shortage of Progesterone can cause irritability and anxiety; inadequate Estrogen is connected to depression and anhedonia; whereas low Testosterone diminishes motivation and assertiveness.
  • Menstrual Cycle: Insufficient Progesterone leads to heavy, unpredictable bleeding (from unopposed estrogen); a lack of Estrogen can cause menstrual cycles to become shorter or to be missed entirely.
  • Vasomotor Symptoms: Inadequate Estrogen is the main cause behind hot flashes and night sweats.
  • Libido & Sexual Function: Low Estrogen can lead to vaginal dryness and discomfort; a deficiency in Testosterone is the principal reason for diminished spontaneous desire and less intense orgasms.
  • Cognitive Symptoms: Insufficient Estrogen can result in "brain fog" and memory issues; low Testosterone impairs strategic thought and mental focus.
  • Metabolism: A lack of Estrogen encourages the accumulation of central (belly) fat and contributes to insulin resistance; low Testosterone results in a decrease in lean muscle, which in turn slows down the metabolic rate.
  • Skin & Hair: Inadequate Estrogen diminishes collagen levels and skin elasticity; a deficiency in Testosterone may play a role in thinning hair.
  • Bone & Muscle: Low Estrogen is a significant factor in the development of osteoporosis and sarcopenia; insufficient Testosterone leads to decreased physical endurance and muscle power.
  • Urogenital Health: A lack of Estrogen can cause Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause, characterized by atrophy, itching, and recurrent UTIs.

An Overview of the Treatment Approach

HRT is an adaptable and gradual process, customized to your individual biological needs. In contrast to a typical prescription, your physician will modify dosages and schedules according to blood work and your reported symptoms. Generally, one hormone is stabilized before the next is added, with follow-up appointments eventually scheduled every 3–6 months.

  • Progesterone (Oral Micronized): Derived from plants, bioidentical progesterone is readily absorbed by the body. Its advantages include safeguarding the uterine lining, regulating hormones, alleviating anxiety, and enhancing sleep. A typical regimen involves 100mg–200mg taken at bedtime, as it can cause sleepiness. Women in perimenopause usually use it in the latter half of their cycle (days 14–28), while those with irregular cycles or who are post-menopausal use it without interruption.
  • Estradiol (Transdermal): Applying estradiol through the skin via gels/patches is considered safer than taking it orally. While oral estrogen can quadruple the risk of blood clots, studies (e.g., BMJ 2019) indicate that transdermal application does not have this elevated risk because the hormone enters the bloodstream directly through the skin. Gels are often used at the start to allow for simple dosage adjustments, and it generally requires 4–8 weeks of regular application before symptoms improve.
  • Transdermal Testosterone: Testosterone can improve libido and energy levels; however, formulations specifically for women are not widely available except in Australia. The required dose is minimal (approx. 300mcg/day), because too much can lead to acne or unwanted hair growth.
  • Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA): This is occasionally used as a hormonal precursor, although its effectiveness when taken orally can be unpredictable. Note: It's important to know that vaginal DHEA is intended only for treating localized atrophy and not for systemic hormone replacement.
  • Medical Supervision: Any form of HRT must be prescribed and monitored by a qualified medical professional.
A healthcare professional in a white blouse providing expert hormone replacement therapy guidance in a modern office.
Abstract pink and blue swirling textures symbolizing complex biological changes during hormone replacement therapy.

Timeline for HRT Effectiveness

  • First Few Weeks You may observe slight relief from symptoms, including enhancements in sleep, mood, or energy levels. The timing of this relief is contingent on which hormone you begin with. Progesterone tends to work more quickly, whereas Estradiol requires a minimum of 2 to 4 weeks before small changes are noticeable. You establish your personal routine for when, how, and where to apply the treatment.
  • 1 to 3 Months During this period, you will be testing the dosage, as the therapy is customized to your specific symptoms. The dosage is increased if symptoms return. If you experience breast tenderness or migraines, we will attempt to lower the estrogen dose. Ideally, your mood will begin to even out, and you will feel more energetic. The occurrence of symptoms like hot flashes or night sweats should diminish.
  • 3 to 6 Months This is the timeframe in which most individuals feel substantial relief, as transdermal Estradiol and Testosterone require some time to become fully effective. Issues such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness frequently show significant improvement, while mood swings happen much less often.
  • 6 to 12 Months You will experience the complete benefits of the therapy and see a notable enhancement in your overall quality of life. You will also have a better understanding of ongoing changes and be able to adjust the dosage or method of administration as needed.
  • Month 13 Onwards Over the long term, further advantages will accrue, such as increased bone strength (which lowers the risk of osteoporosis) and improved cardiovascular health, contributing to your well-being as you get older. Keep in mind that these benefits are most effective when combined with strength training, a nutritious diet, and adequate protein consumption.

Next Steps

At The Longevity Practice, our focus is on pinpointing risks before they develop into health issues by using early and accurate diagnostics. Rather than responding to illness, we formulate distinct, individualized strategies for preserving long-term wellness. Our objective is to provide each patient with a thorough comprehension of their own body and actionable measures they can implement immediately. By centering on prevention and clarity, we guide patients in constructing a longer, healthier existence.

Discover if our methods are a good fit for you. Reserve your consultation online and Schedule an appointment

Evidence-based Longevity In Dessau

In our practice, we rely exclusively on evidence-based methods and medical diagnostics that have been scientifically proven to make a difference. Our focus is on preventing the “four horsemen” of aging—cardiovascular disease, cancer, metabolic dysfunction, and neurodegeneration—rather than offering trends like epigenetic age tests or wellness drips. Our Prevention strategy addresses tailored exercises, nutrition, sleep, mental health and if necessary support by supplement and medication.

Banner Image

Cost Of A Hormone Replacement Therapy Focus Session In Dessau

The cost for a Hormone Replacement Therapy Focus Session is based on the German healthcare pricing system (GOÄ – Gebührenordnung für Ärzte). We encourage you not to stop at consultation alone, but to begin your full Longevity Journey with us. Here is what our protocol looks like:

Hormone Replacement Therapy Focus Session
199€
Goal: Conduct a comprehensive hormone panel and risk-benefit analysis to develop a personalized HRT protocol and targeted treatment strategy.
Duration: 45 minutes
Full Diagnostic Visit
1,399€
Goal: Establish a data-driven biological baseline to unlock personalized peak performance and long-term health optimization.
Duration: 3 hours
Introduction Session
0€
Schedule a quick video call to learn more about The Longevity Practice services and approach.
Duration: 15 minutes

Testimonials

What our customers say about us

Julia, 46 – HRT & Strength
When I saw how much muscle mass I had lost, I finally understood why I felt weaker. It took longer than I expected to get my hormone levels properly adjusted, but once they were stable, my sleep and daily energy improved dramatically. Combining this with regular strength training has made me noticeably stronger and more resilient in everyday life.
Anna, 44 – HRT & Sleep
I never realized how much my hormones were affecting my sleep until I have taken progesterone. After adjusting my therapy and tracking my sleep for six weeks, I went from waking up four or five times a night to sleeping through almost every night. It’s such a relief to finally wake up feeling rested and ready for the day.
Pia, 45 – Menopause & Brain Fog
I thought I was losing my mind. I’d forget simple words in the middle of sentences. Realizing it was just the estrogen drop was a huge relief.
Anna, 49 – Menopause & Sleep
The night sweats were brutal—I was waking up drenched and exhausted every single night. I was so irritable with my family. Once I balanced my hormones, I finally got my sleep back.
Anita, 54 – Menopause & Anxiety
Nobody told me about the sudden heart palpitations and anxiety. I felt on edge for no reason. Learning it was hormonal made so much sense.