Hormone Replacement Therapy FAQs

Hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, uses hormones to ease symptoms and health issues that come with hormonal shifts. For menopause, treatment might include estrogen and progesterone. In some cases, other therapies may be explored. Ultimately, the best approach is unique to each individual. 

Bioidentical hormones mirror the chemical and molecular makeup of the hormones your body naturally creates. While some of these products carry FDA approval, others are specially crafted by compounding pharmacies to suit unique needs. Remember, the term “bioidentical” alone does not guarantee a product is safer or more effective for you. Dr. Frankwick takes a personalized approach, considering your medical history, symptoms, preferences, and clinical needs to find the best treatment path.

Hormone therapy offers both benefits and risks, and its suitability is unique to each person. Your age, medical background, the nature of your symptoms, and your family health history all shape the conversation. Dr. Frankwick takes the time to explore these details with you, guiding you toward a decision that fits your needs.

Not necessarily. Laboratory testing can provide useful information in some situations, but hormone levels are only one part of an evaluation. Dr. Frankwick considers your symptoms, medical history, stage of life, current medications, risk factors, and other relevant health information when deciding whether testing would be useful.

• Women may experience symptoms including:
• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Sleep disruption
• Vaginal dryness
• Pain with intercourse
• Changes in libido 
• Mood changes
• Irritability
• Anxiety 
• Changes in concentration or memory 
• Headaches
• Changes in body composition or weight 
• Urinary symptoms
• Joint or muscle discomfort

Symptoms vary widely. Some women experience only a few, while others notice changes affecting multiple areas of their lives.

No.

Hormone therapy is not the right choice for everyone. Your unique medical history, risk factors, symptoms, current medications, and personal preferences all matter. That is why an individualized evaluation is essential before starting any treatment.

Many women find real relief from menopause symptoms with the right treatment, though each person’s journey is unique. Rather than guaranteeing a specific result, our focus is on truly listening to your experience, exploring options together, and creating a plan that fits your personal health needs and aspirations. 

At Ginkgo Functional Medicine, both men and women can access comprehensive laboratory evaluations and hormone replacement therapy. The practice is especially passionate about guiding women through the unique hormonal shifts of perimenopause and menopause. When women are feeling like themselves once again, they frequently bring in their partners to help optimize their hormonal health.

Currently, consultations are offered via telehealth. Ginkgo Functional Medicine hopes to establish a physical office location in the future.

No. Ginkgo Functional Medicine does not currently provide pelvic exams or Pap smears. We encourage you to stay on top of your routine and preventive care with your primary care provider or gynecologist.

No, Dr. Dawn Frankwick will not serve as your primary care provider at Ginkgo Functional Medicine. Instead, our services enhance and support your existing primary, preventative, emergency, or specialty medical care.

Ginkgo Functional Medicine does not bill insurance or Medicare. Please reach out for details about appointments, services, and our current fees.

We know that life can be unpredictable. If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, just let us know at least 24 hours in advance. For cancellations made with less than 24 hours’ notice, a $125 late cancellation fee may apply.

Begin with a friendly chat. In our complimentary 15-minute appointment, you can share your story, ask anything about our approach, and see if taking the next step feels right for you.