Hormone levels change throughout our lives as we grow and age. They play a vital role in our bodies, but a hormonal imbalance can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms including loss of energy, poor sleep, unpredictable moods, and unwanted weight gain. You’ve probably heard that TRT and HRT can be used to treat hormonal imbalance, but how do you know which one is right for you?
We’ve broken down the difference between TRT and HRT to help you find the right treatment and restore your well-being.
What is Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)?
Testosterone replacement therapy, or TRT for short, is used to treat low levels of the “masculinizing” hormone testosterone. Doctors prescribe TRT to help restore the balance of testosterone levels, which can decrease due to natural aging and certain medical conditions.
What Does TRT Treat?
We use TRT to treat the symptoms of testosterone imbalance, which can include:
- Poor sleep
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Depression
- Irritability
- Increased stress
- Low motivation
- Hair loss
- Increased body fat
- Loss of muscle mass
- Decreased bone density
Who Should Get TRT?
TRT is a safe and effective treatment for anyone experiencing low testosterone levels. Low testosterone is most common in men over 45 years old but can impact both men and women at any age. Doctors can also prescribe TRT as a gender-affirming treatment for transgender men.
What Is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)?
Hormone replacement therapy, or HRT for short, is used to relieve the symptoms of certain hormonal imbalances. While the term “HRT” is sometimes used as an umbrella term for the treatment of any hormonal imbalance, it more commonly refers to treatment for an imbalance of the “feminizing” hormones estrogen and progesterone.
What Does HRT Treat?
We use HRT to relieve the symptoms of estrogen and progesterone imbalance, which can include:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Chills
- Vaginal dryness
- Irregular periods
- Weight gain
- Decreased libido
- Dry skin
- Incontinence
Who Should Get HRT?
Doctors often prescribe HRT to women during menopause, and as a gender-affirming therapy. It’s commonly taken as an oral hormone medication but is also available as a patch or gel.
What is the Difference Between TRT and HRT?
TRT and HRT are both treatments used to relieve the symptoms of hormonal imbalance, but they each target different hormones. We use TRT to treat low levels of testosterone, whereas we use HRT to restore an imbalance in estrogen and/or progesterone. We use a routine blood test to find out your testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone levels, and indicate whether TRT or HRT is right for you.
Find Your Tailored Treatment Plan at PeakPerforMax
Everybody is different, which is why at PeakPerforMax we believe in fully personalized treatment plans. Through remote telemedicine, our doctor-directed at-home treatment plans are tailored to your unique needs and goals. So, whether you’re experiencing low levels of testosterone, estrogen, or progesterone, our licensed medical specialists can design a TRT or HRT treatment plan that restores balance and rejuvenation to your life.
