Hormone Balancing In Freiburg

Anticipating to Avert

Post-menopause constitutes one-third of a woman's life, which is approximately 33 years based on an average menopause age of 51 and a life expectancy of 84 for women in the EU. Additionally, women can experience perimenopausal symptoms for as long as 10 years. This means about half of a woman's expected lifespan is spent managing a range of symptoms that can reduce both quality of life and productivity.

Individuals undergoing HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) often state they “feel like themselves again.” Therefore, identifying the correct treatment rhythm and dosage represents a significant investment in the subsequent 30 to 40 years of one's life.

A simplified guide for self-assessment to help identify which hormone might be deficient:

Low Progesterone: You might experience feelings of anxiety, irritation, and being overstimulated.
Low Estrogen: You might notice dryness, feeling hot, and a tendency to be tearful.
Low Testosterone: You might feel fatigued, physically weak, and lacking in motivation.

It is important to remember that symptoms and their severity vary among different women. Hormones can have overlapping or synergistic effects. Addressing and resolving symptoms is frequently a process of gradual refinement.

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.

Systemic Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalance

Sleep: Deficient Progesterone leads to disrupted sleep and waking during the night (due to a diminished calming GABA effect); low Estrogen is responsible for night sweats and waking up early in the morning.
Mood: Inadequate Progesterone can cause irritability and anxiety; insufficient Estrogen is associated with depression and a loss of pleasure; low Testosterone diminishes motivation and confidence.
Menstrual Cycle: Deficient Progesterone can lead to heavy and irregular menstrual flow (from unopposed estrogen); insufficient Estrogen can cause cycles to become shorter or be missed entirely.
Vasomotor Symptoms: A deficiency in Estrogen is the main cause behind hot flashes and night sweats.
Libido & Sexual Function: Insufficient Estrogen leads to vaginal dryness and discomfort; low Testosterone is the main reason for a decrease in spontaneous desire and less intense orgasms.
Cognitive Symptoms: Inadequate Estrogen can result in "brain fog" and memory issues; deficient Testosterone can impair strategic thought and mental focus.
Metabolism: Insufficient Estrogen encourages the accumulation of abdominal fat and contributes to insulin resistance; low Testosterone results in a reduction of lean muscle, which decelerates the metabolic rate.
Skin & Hair: A deficiency in Estrogen diminishes collagen and skin suppleness; low Testosterone may play a role in thinning hair.
Bone & Muscle: Insufficient Estrogen is a significant factor in the development of osteoporosis and sarcopenia; deficient Testosterone lessens physical endurance and muscular power.
Urogenital Health: A deficiency in Estrogen results in the Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause, which includes atrophy, itching, and recurrent UTIs.

Understanding Your Treatment Plan

HRT is an adaptive, evolving process customized to your individual biology. It differs from a typical prescription, as your physician will modify dosages and schedules according to blood test results and how your symptoms change. Usually, one hormone is brought to a stable level before another is added, with follow-up appointments transitioning to 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, creating hormonal balance, alleviating anxiety, and enhancing sleep. The standard regimen is typically 100mg–200mg taken at bedtime because it can cause sleepiness. It is often prescribed for the latter half of the menstrual cycle (days 14–28) for perimenopausal women, while it's taken without interruption by women with irregular cycles and those who are post-menopausal.
Estradiol (Transdermal): Applying estrogen through the skin using gels or 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 carry this elevated risk because the hormone enters the bloodstream directly via the skin. Gels are often used at the start for simple dose adjustment, with symptom improvement typically observed after 4–8 weeks of regular application.
Transdermal Testosterone: Testosterone can improve libido and energy levels; however, formulations specifically for women are uncommon outside of Australia. The dose is kept very low (approx. 300mcg/day), since higher amounts can lead to side effects like acne or unwanted hair growth.
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA): This is sometimes administered as a hormonal precursor, though its effects when taken orally can be unpredictable. Note: Vaginal DHEA is intended only for treating localized atrophy and does not function as a 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.

What to Expect from HRT: A Timeline

First Few Weeks You may begin to experience slight relief from symptoms, including better sleep, mood, or energy levels. This timing of this depends on which hormone you begin with. Progesterone works more quickly, whereas Estradiol requires a minimum of 2 to 4 weeks before small changes are noticeable. This period is also for establishing your application routine—determining the time, method, and location.
1 to 3 Months During this phase, your dosage is adjusted, as the therapy is personalized to your specific symptoms. The dose is increased if symptoms return. If side effects like breast tenderness or migraines occur, we aim to reduce the estrogen level. Ideally, your mood will begin to even out and your energy will improve. The occurrence of symptoms such as hot flashes or night sweats should lessen.
3 to 6 Months The majority of individuals find considerable relief during this period, as it takes time for transdermal Estradiol and Testosterone to become fully effective. Issues like hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness typically show marked improvement, and mood fluctuations occur far less often.
6 to 12 Months You experience the complete benefits of the therapy and see a notable enhancement in your quality of life. You also recognize 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, such as enhanced bone strength (lowering the risk of osteoporosis) and improved cardiovascular health, which supports your well-being as you get older. It's 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, our emphasis is on detecting risks prior to them developing into health issues by using early and accurate diagnostics. Rather than responding to illness, our approach is to develop straightforward, individualized strategies for sustaining long-term wellness. We aim to provide each patient with profound insight into their own body and actionable steps for immediate implementation. By centering on prevention and clarity, we guide patients in constructing a longer, healthier existence.

Discover if our methodology is a good fit for your needs. Reserve your consultation online and Schedule an appointment

Evidence-based Longevity In Freiburg

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.

Cost Of A Hormone Replacement Therapy Focus Session In Freiburg

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

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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

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Introduction Session

0€

Schedule a quick video call to learn more about The Longevity Practice services and approach.

Duration: 15 minutes

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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.