Achieve Hormonal Balance In Gelsenkirchen

Anticipate and Avert

Post-menopause constitutes one-third of a woman's life (approximately 33 years, considering an average menopause age of 51 and an average female life expectancy of 84 in the EU). Additionally, women can experience perimenopausal symptoms for as long as a decade. This means that about half of a woman's life may be spent managing a range of symptoms that diminish her quality of life and productivity.

Individuals undergoing HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) frequently report a return to “feeling like themselves again”. Consequently, identifying the optimal treatment rhythm and dosage represents a crucial investment in one's well-being for the upcoming 30-40 years.

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

Low Progesterone: Feelings of anxiety, irritation, and being overly stimulated can occur.
Low Estrogen: Sensations of dryness, heat, and tearfulness may be present.
Low Testosterone: You might experience fatigue, weakness, and a lack of motivation.

It is important to remember that each woman experiences symptoms differently and with varying levels of intensity. A synergistic effect or overlap among hormones is common. Resolving and managing these 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.

A Body-Wide Guide to Hormone Symptoms

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

An Overview of the Treatment Approach

Hormone Replacement Therapy is a fluid and adaptive process, customized to your individual biological needs. In contrast to a fixed prescription, your physician will modify doses and schedules according to your blood test results and how your symptoms are progressing. The typical approach is to stabilize a single hormone before 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 involve safeguarding the uterine lining, stabilizing hormones, alleviating anxiety, and enhancing sleep. A standard protocol involves 100mg–200mg taken at night because it can cause sleepiness. It is often prescribed for the latter half of the cycle (days 14–28) for perimenopausal women, while it is taken without interruption by those with irregular cycles or who are post-menopausal.
Estradiol (Transdermal): Applying estrogen through the skin with gels or patches is considered safer than taking it orally. While oral estrogen can increase the risk of blood clots fourfold, 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 generally observed after 4–8 weeks of regular application.
Transdermal Testosterone: While testosterone can improve libido and energy levels, formulations designed for women are not widely available except in Australia. The required dose is minimal (around 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 effectiveness when taken orally can be variable. Important: Vaginal DHEA 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 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 of Hormone Replacement Therapy Effects

First Few Weeks Minor relief from symptoms may become apparent, including better sleep, mood, or energy levels. The timing of this depends on which hormone you begin with. Progesterone tends to work more quickly, whereas Estradiol requires a minimum of 2 to 4 weeks for initial effects to be felt. This period is also for establishing your application routine—determining the best time, method, and location.
1 to 3 Months The dosage is evaluated during this time, as the therapy is customized based on your specific symptoms. The dose is raised if symptoms return. If side effects like breast tenderness or migraines occur, the estrogen dose may be reduced. Ideally, mood fluctuations will begin to level out and energy will improve. The occurrence of symptoms such as hot flashes or night sweats should lessen.
3 to 6 Months The majority of individuals feel substantial relief in this timeframe, as transdermal Estradiol and Testosterone need time to become fully effective. Issues like hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness typically show marked improvement, and mood swings occur far less often.
6 to 12 Months At this stage, you are experiencing the complete benefits of the therapy and observing a positive change in your quality of life. You recognize that adjustments may still be necessary and are able to modify dosages or methods of administration as needed.
Month 13 Onwards Over the long term, further advantages accrue, such as enhanced bone strength (which lowers the risk of osteoporosis) and improved cardiovascular health, contributing to your well-being as you get older. It's important to note that these benefits are maximized when combined with strength training, a nutritious diet, and adequate protein consumption.

Next Steps

At The Longevity Practice, our concentration is on detecting risks before they evolve into health issues by using early and accurate diagnostics. Rather than responding to illness, we develop straightforward, individualized strategies to preserve health over the long term. We aim to provide each patient with profound insight into their own body and actionable measures they can implement immediately. By prioritizing prevention and understanding, we assist our patients in constructing a longer, more healthful life.

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

Evidence-based Longevity In Gelsenkirchen

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 Gelsenkirchen

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.