Hormone Management

Our Approach To Hormone Management

We offer comprehensive, personalized hormone care for individuals in the Bay Area navigating perimenopause and menopause, with treatment plans tailored to each person’s symptoms, health history, and goals. Led by Dr. Jessica Kassis, our approach includes both hormone therapy (HT), previously known as hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and alternative strategies to support overall wellbeing during this transition.

HT is the most effective FDA-approved treatment for moderate to severe menopause symptoms including hot flashes and night sweats (vasomotor symptoms) as well as symptoms of the genitourinary syndrome of menopause. In addition it is FDA-approved for osteoporosis prevention. While early studies raised concerns about potential risks, current evidence shows that when hormone therapy is started within 10 years of menopause onset or before age 60, it is safe and highly beneficial for most women.

Our clinical team works closely with each patient to determine the safest and most effective path forward. For some, that may include hormone therapy; for others, we may recommend alternative menopause treatments such as nutritional support, stress reduction, sleep optimization, and non hormonal medication. Our goal is to reduce symptoms and enhance quality of life through an integrated, individualized menopause care model.

Who Should Not Use Hormone Therapy (Previously Known as HRT)

Hormone therapy isn’t the right option for every woman. In some cases, the potential health risks are greater than the benefits, so it’s important to have a thorough discussion with Dr. Kassis before starting treatment.

Typically, hormone therapy should be avoided by women who have a history of certain serious health conditions, including:

• Breast cancer
• Uterine cancer
• Unexplained uterine bleeding
• Liver disease
• History of blood clots
• Cardiovascular disease

What Are Bio Identical Hormones?

The term Bioidentical has become synonymous with compounded hormones and is mostly a marketing term. Bio or body identical hormones are hormones that have the most similar chemical and molecular structure as the body’s natural hormones. They do not need to be custom-compounded or custom mixed. We use well-tested FDA approved hormone therapy products that are commercially available from retail pharmacies in a variety of doses and delivery systems.

What Are Custom-Compounded Hormones?

Custom-compounded hormones are hormone medications that are specifically mixed and prepared by a pharmacist according to a healthcare provider’s prescription. Custom-compounded hormones are not FDA approved and are not safer or more effective than approved bioidentical hormones. They are not tested for safety and effectiveness or to prove that the active ingredients are absorbed appropriately or provide predictable levels in blood and tissue.