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

Hormone Balance Therapy in Dortmund

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.

Prevention Through Foresight

Women spend one-third of their lives in the post-menopausal phase (approximately 33 years, considering an average menopause onset at age 51 and an EU female life expectancy of 84). Additionally, women can face up to a decade of perimenopausal symptoms. This means nearly half of a woman's life can be affected by various symptoms that diminish both quality of life and personal productivity.

Individuals undergoing HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) often describe the experience as “feeling like themselves again”. Therefore, identifying the correct treatment frequency and dosage represents a crucial investment in the subsequent 30-40 years of one's life.

Here is a simplified guide to help identify which hormone might be deficient:

  • Low Progesterone: Feelings of anxiety, irritability, and being overstimulated may be present.
  • Low Estrogen: You might experience sensations of dryness, heat, and tearfulness.
  • Low Testosterone: You could feel fatigued, lacking in strength, and without motivation.

It is important to remember that each woman's experience with symptoms and their intensity levels will vary. Hormones can have overlapping or synergistic effects. Addressing and resolving these symptoms is typically a gradual, step-by-step process.

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.

Identifying Hormonal Imbalance: Symptoms Across the Body

  • Sleep: Deficient Progesterone results in disrupted sleep and waking during the night (due to the loss of GABA's calming influence); low Estrogen leads to nocturnal sweating and waking up early in the morning.
  • Mood: A Progesterone deficiency contributes to irritability and anxiety; insufficient Estrogen is associated with depression and anhedonia; low Testosterone diminishes motivation and assertiveness.
  • Menstrual Cycle: Insufficient Progesterone leads to heavy and erratic bleeding (from unopposed estrogen); a deficiency in Estrogen causes shorter or missed periods.
  • Vasomotor Symptoms: A lack of Estrogen is the main cause of hot flashes and night sweats.
  • Libido & Sexual Function: Insufficient Estrogen leads to vaginal dryness and discomfort; low Testosterone is the principal reason for diminished spontaneous desire and less intense orgasms.
  • Cognitive Symptoms: An Estrogen deficiency can cause "brain fog" and memory issues; inadequate Testosterone impairs strategic thought and mental focus.
  • Metabolism: A lack of Estrogen encourages the accumulation of abdominal fat (belly fat) and contributes to insulin resistance; deficient Testosterone leads to a decrease in lean muscle, which slows the metabolic rate.
  • Skin & Hair: Insufficient Estrogen diminishes collagen levels and the skin's elasticity; low Testosterone may be a factor in thinning hair.
  • Bone & Muscle: An Estrogen deficiency is a significant factor in the development of osteoporosis and sarcopenia; inadequate Testosterone decreases physical endurance and muscular strength.
  • Urogenital Health: Insufficient Estrogen causes Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause, characterized by atrophy, itching, and recurrent UTIs.

Understanding Your Potential Treatment Plan

Hormone Replacement Therapy is a fluid, step-by-step process customized to your individual biology. In contrast to a fixed prescription, your physician will modify doses and schedules according to blood work and your tracked symptoms. The common approach is to stabilize a single hormone prior to adding another, 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 quality. A typical protocol involves 100mg–200mg taken at bedtime, as it can cause sleepiness. Women in perimenopause generally use it in the latter half of their menstrual cycle (days 14–28), whereas those with irregular periods and post-menopausal women use it without interruption.
  • Estradiol (Transdermal): Applying estradiol through the skin (via gels or patches) is a safer alternative to taking it orally. Although oral estrogen may increase the risk of blood clots fourfold, studies (e.g., BMJ 2019) indicate that transdermal application does not present this elevated risk because the hormone enters the bloodstream directly via the skin. Gels are often the initial choice for straightforward dose adjustment, and consistent application for 4–8 weeks is usually needed before symptoms improve.
  • Transdermal Testosterone: While testosterone can improve libido and energy levels, formulations designed specifically for women are uncommon, except in Australia. The dose is kept very minimal (approx. 300mcg/day), because too much can lead to acne or unwanted hair growth.
  • Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA): It is occasionally administered as a precursor hormone, though its effectiveness when taken orally can be unpredictable. Note: DHEA administered vaginally is intended only for treating localized atrophy and does not function as a systemic hormone replacement.
  • Medical Supervision: Every form of HRT must be prescribed and managed under the care of a 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.

What Is the Timeline for Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Efficacy?

  • First Few Weeks It's possible to see some minor alleviation of symptoms, like enhancements in sleep, mood, or energy levels. The specific improvements depend on which hormone you begin with. Progesterone works more quickly, whereas Estradiol requires a minimum of 2 to 4 weeks for initial effects to become noticeable. During this time, you establish your personal routine for application, including the timing, method, and location.
  • 1 to 3 Months The dosage is adjusted during this period, as the therapy is customized based on your specific symptoms. Should symptoms reappear, the dose is increased. If breast tenderness or migraines occur, we work to reduce the estrogen level. In an ideal scenario, mood fluctuations begin to even out, and you will feel more energetic. The occurrence of symptoms such as hot flashes or night sweats ought to become less frequent.
  • 3 to 6 Months The majority of individuals report substantial relief during this timeframe, as transdermal Estradiol and Testosterone require some time to become effective. Hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness often improve dramatically, and mood swings become much less frequent.
  • 6 to 12 Months At this stage, you experience the complete benefits of the therapy and observe a significant enhancement in your quality of life. You become aware that adjustments may still be necessary and can modify the dosage or method of administration accordingly.
  • Month 13 Onwards Over the long term, further advantages build up, including stronger bones (which lowers osteoporosis risk) and improved cardiovascular health, contributing to your well-being as you get older. It is important to note that these benefits are most effective when combined with strength training, a nutritious diet, and adequate protein consumption.

Next Steps

At The Longevity Practice, we focus on identifying risks before they become health problems through early, precise diagnostics. Instead of reacting to disease, we create clear, personalized plans to maintain long-term health. Our goal is to give every patient a deep understanding of their body along with practical steps they can take today. With prevention and clarity at the core, we help patients build a longer, healthier life.

See if our approach is right for you. Book your consultation online and Schedule an appointment

Evidence-based Longevity In Dortmund

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.

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Cost Of A Hormone Replacement Therapy Focus Session In Dortmund

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.