Why I Chose Hormone Pellets | Empowering Midlife Wellness

Today I’m talking about why I chose hormone pellets as my own form of hormone replacement for estradiol and testosterone, as well as the pros and cons of other delivery options. Pellets, patches, creams, troches or other options are all available, but which one is best for you? I'll be discussing all of those options and sharing some tips about how to find a provider, and what to ask them when you go to your appointment!
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[@deannajohnson7816]

Dr. Susan, I'm so thankful for your videos on pellets. I was first introduced to pellets on Dominique Sachse's channel over a year ago. Since then, I've had testosterone pellets placed, not knowing any real details. Happily, the testosterone lowered my anxiety to almost nothing, and gave all my lady parts new sensations. Wow! After a year on pellets, I've changed locations, so I'm looking into new providers. Now I'm well informed, and can advocate for what I need. Thank you!!

[@sss1st]

Are you still doing well?

[@lolakathol4109]

Dr. Susan, I was introduced to pellets 3 yrs.ago. I liked them for the first year. The 2nd yr. I had a different doctor . She gave me too much estrogen and testosterone. Stared feeling auful! So much estrogen in my uteral lining. I started bleeding! Had 3 procedures done. Including a D&C. Ever test turned out ok. What a worry it was! Not to mention the cost!!! Wow! I am now wearing the patch. I feel more at ease. It’s a personal choice, and I feel comfortable with it. Watch your videos regularly. Thank you for all of your knowledge and helping women feel better!🙂

[@michellebailey4769]

I went this route for my HRT after seeing your videos with Dominique. It has been a game changer!! It’s been wonderful. Only downside has been when I am due for a new batch of estradiol and testosterone pellets after 3 months and my doctor is booked up and I have to wait an extra week!! My hot flashes and insomnia return with a vengeance!!

[@8181Shannon]

Good to hear pellets are doing good for you! I am waiting on my blood work to come in So I can set up my appointment with Dr. Susan. Can you schedule your appointment for next time with your provider before you leave. Then you wouldn’t have to wait it would already be set.

[@michellebailey4769]

@@8181Shannon you will be so happy! I really don’t know why all doctors aren’t up to speed on menopause and HRT. It amazes me that a lot of them are still relying on the Women’s health initiative that was done in the early 2000’s. My pcp scolded me when I told him about the addition of testosterone to my estradiol pellet HRT. If m’en had to go through some sort of “men-opause”, I bet there would be no questions asked when it came to how to treat it effectively!!

[@pattycake178]

@@8181Shannon that’s what I was going to ask, can you make your appointment ahead of time ?

[@peacepocket]

Only one week without it and the symptoms come back? There had to be a better way.

[@lainelynn70]

Yup - that's the worst part of pellets when it's wearing off I noticed my symptoms come back with a vengeance as well! I will say it helped more than I thought now that my symptoms are back thankfully my appointment for a 2nd pellet is tomorrow.

[@eoreed9024]

Thank you for this! As a peri woman, I had my first T pellet inserted last year but stopped since I was still hesitant and then resumed again this year. Just had the 2nd insertion yesterday. There is so much noise out there surrounding pellets and I appreciated your honesty and frankness. I'm also fortunate to be a patient at your practice and your team does practice what they preach. Appreciate the conservative treatment when it comes to T for women as well as the follow-up 6 week lab checks and InBody scans at each visit. The primary con to pellets can, of course, be the cost. But my husband and I made it a priority to use our FSA to cover this. It is very scary to see different pellet therapy providers pop-up now even in Med Spa practices that I can see how they give pellet HRT a bad rap. Now, trying to convince my hubby to go for it!

[@CathyTate-t1y]

Thanks for your video. I was on pellets for 14 years after a total hysterectomy and switched 6 mos ago to self-injections 2 times per week for more consistent weekly levels. So far, I am happy. It's wayyyyyy cheaper than pellets.

[@jonashville]

Really? What is it called? Does insurance cover it? I've been on prempro for years but am starting pellets soon.

[@cathytate4986]

It’s Estradiol Cypionate and testosterone Cypionate. Insurance covers if your PCP is willing to call it in. I started with Evolve telemedicine to get started and transitioned over to my PCP. They just called it in and the estradiol is $20 for a 5ml vial that will last 185 days.

[@beatscatmommy1735]

May I ask what your Testosterone and estrogen levels are now that you are on injections? And how much of each do you inject a week and do you inject subq? Your help is so appreciated​@@cathytate4986

[@Diana-mu9vd]

Are the bio identical?

[@drironmom6815]

Not bioidentical

[@jennieoh8543]

I use a Tagaderm film over my patch and it works well twice per week.

[@gloriab3776]

Because of your informational videos I am now going on my third pellet treatment and I have to say it has been a game changer! Thank you!!

[@MrsCalabresesTeachingChannel]

The menopausal symptoms were ongoing for me; in my last years of teaching, I wore tank tops in school, opened and closed the windows ( the kids even commented, "Again? Opening the window!" ), and on the train commuting home, I met my cousin. We sat together, and he would laugh, "Again, you take your coat off?" We'd laugh! I'd get hot, sweat, then get cold. I sweat so much in bed that I had to change my pajamas, and sometimes I had to wipe myself down with a towel. I wondered if it was because I never had any kids. I thought I'd sail through menopause because I worked out, juiced, and ate right all through my career, but I got struck hard. I was on oral for a while, a few years; I started at age 56 or so, maybe 57. This doctor was well-known in my area for his expertise, so I stayed with him. But it was expensive, and I didn't like him that much, nor did I like to drive to the doctor; it was very congested where he had his office. I did get relief with the oral but found it burdensome to take morning and night. I researched the pellets and decided to give it a try. I have a friend who warned against it, but she scares easily, and I don't. Besides, I had terrible symptoms, and she seemed "fine." I didn't let her fears intrude on my decision. Anyway, I went with the pellets, found a doctor, and started with her. But once, I didn't see her for 5 months, and was clearly in menopausal symptoms again. instead of taking the time to give me a blood test and adjust the usual dose, she just put in the pellet dosage that she had been using. I bled for 4 weeks; during that time, she went on vacation and didn't have a doctor to refer out for help, abandoning her patients for 2 weeks. I searched my area for a good doctor and found one, who guided me through the bleeding, I am blessed because this new doctor is well-informed and enthusiastically follows a protocol with a lot of support. I wanted to go with something that was easily transferable to other doctors. This doctor is schooling himself and schooled in this protocol. So it all worked out. Like many of you, I work out, weight train, walk, jog, hula hoop, stretch, and eat right here. But the menopausal symptoms were extreme, and my husband wanted me to have relief. The pellets are fantastic; I will be on them as long as possible.

[@MrsCalabresesTeachingChannel]

BioTe is what this doctor uses, and I'm glad to have a good company that is educating its practitioners.

[@kjohnsonshelton0923]

Thank you for explaining HRTs in such detail. Now I understand!! I need testosterone pellets but ins won’t cover and I don’t have room in my tight budget, unfortunately. But my estradiol patch and 100mg progesterone at night have greatly improved my daily life, so I’ll keep taking until my Dr says I can’t anymore lol

[@houndherder6982]

Thank you Dr. Hardwick-Smith for the very informative videos regarding HRT. After listening to your videos and doing some additional research I decided to try the BioTe pellets. Fortunately, there was a fantastic provider in my little town. I have had very positive results with them and have never felt better. Had I not listened to your videos I would have never thought I could get any relief from my post-menopausal symptoms that have continued for years. I just can’t tell you how much I appreciate you getting this information out to women via social media. It is a powerful tool.

[@beckyharper6263]

I went this route a year ago and it is a game changer in my life. I will be 57.

[@melodielumley6450]

Amazing video and the timing for me is perfect. I just had my first duo pellet placement Tuesday and I'm hoping for good outcomes. Your video's (with Dominique included) helped me overcome my wavering. Thank you so much from Canada.

[@minamatos2935]

I for one am so happy that my estradiol patches and progesterone work well because 1st I can’t afford the pallets 2nd I’ve heard they are not fda approved. May, or may not be true but either way my HRT works well thank God!!!

[@saylorgirl799]

Are the pellets not covered by insurance? How expensive are they?

[@caracorson2709]

Not covered by ins or fda approved.

[@Lbb789]

FDA approval?? Don't make me laugh. FDA approves all kinds of stuff that isn't healthy like food dyes, additives and chemicals. The FDA doesn't care about you. The Pellets will NEVER be FDA approved because they want YOU to buy their pharmaceuticals like horse estrogen. Wake up please

[@memine3252]

I started pellets 5 yrs ago. Duo, I felt great. I only got my levels checked yearly. BIG mistake, ladies, these pellets long term will make you regret it.. because of high testosterone, my hair started to fall out. I was diagnosed with Female Pattern Baldness, and Telegen Effusium also increased red blood cells. The doctors thought I had cancer. After all the lab work, three doctors, it was due to the pellets doing your research, will help you not have to go what I experienced. If this reaches one individual or more, these pellets are $ maker save.your sanity hair and especially yourself. Look at natural supplements that don't have these horrible side effects for cheaper than 300 to 400 every 4 months. I hope this helps..

[@denisefelipe3581]

What natural alternatives are u suggesting? The pellets had there positive effect on you it seems until you stopped.

[@TheAfiyfah]

@@denisefelipe3581she stopped because of the negative impact on her health.

[@Teresakloeppel]

I just received my pellet a couple weeks ago. My testosterone was nonexistent. I was also placed on Progesterone, several supplements because of low B vitamins, NP Thyroid and when I saw my Neurologist last week she added Thiamine 100 mg tablets daily. I have dry itchy skin, Lavedo Riticulitis, Migraines, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and tired all the time. I am now sleeping much better and starting to feel better. The only problem after starting this hormone therapy for me has been sore nipples. I decided to have my hormones checked due to the chronic migraines. I take Umbrevly, Imgality and Botox injections now

[@Jennifer-jf7nx]

I’m in a couple Facebook hormone groups and most women love their Estridial levels to be in the range of 250 to 400. I like mine higher as well I have no side effects. I had a hysterectomy so I don’t have to worry about bleeding. I know some women on the Wiley protocol and they use a lot of estrogen and some use 0 testosterone. It’s so interesting how we are all so different. Lots of women also love injections for both estrogen and testosterone and say they stay more even and they like the control they have. I did pellets I felt amazing wish I had stayed that route because I listened to the women in my hormone groups about injections so I tried that route and my levels built up without me knowing it. My hair thinned I lost my high notes when I sing.. my total testosterone was 595.. and DHT 129.. I stopped it all went through withdraws for a couple weeks now I’m slowly using a tiny bit of cream and thinking of going back to pellets.. the injections to me felt fake as well I never felt right. Pellets make you feel like your old self. I felt like I was in my 30’s again wish I never switched. Now that my hair thinned I’m scared of getting too much testosterone. My voice is getting better and hair is getting better thank God.. it’s been about 4 months since I stopped the injections

[@olderandwiser127]

are you in fixaflash? this is the mrs, not the drummer. I tried wiley for 15 months and never was successful; in fact got much worse.

[@Teresa-pg7wb]

The pellets are absolutely awesome. Very convenient, was using both estradiol and testosterone. However, and this is a HUGE bummer, I have been experiencing scarring pain from 5 years’ worth of insertions, alternating hips each time. Don’t let this keep you from doing the pellets, tho. This is just what happened to me. I work out a LOT and the lower-body weight work is what started bothering me, along with longer walks or hikes. We are now doing progesterone still by mouth each night, going to try estradiol orally since my blood tests are awesome, and testosterone shots twice a week. Shots don’t bother me. The testosterone is just becoming a bit of a pain to procure, but I think we have that taken care of. Who knows. I may go BACK to pellets if all this other stuff doesn’t work out.

[@JK_O13]

This is amazing!!! Thank God for doctors like you!!! We need education on this! I am working with a doctor who will be administering pellets! I’m excited!

[@kristinaparker5597]

But I've seen several doctors (menopause clinicians) in their videos say the pellets aren't FDA approved and aren't regulated. All this research to get proper relief is exhausting. 🙁

[@jodicraigie5012]

I did pellet therapy both (Estrogen and Testosterone) for almost a year and found that my body does not metabolize the pellets well. I had frequent spotting which resulted in my NP ordering an ultrasound and biopsy to rule out other issues. Now planning to switch to the Estradiol patch to see how I respond to that delivery method. It can be a trial and error approach, but advocating for yourself as Dr. Susan suggests is very important for the best outcome. Do your research and prepare a list of questions so you can have an informed discussion with your medical provider.

[@joannekatzman4514]

I had those same issues, they cut my estradiol in 1/2 and no more break thru bleeding. I've been in over a year and so very well

[@aesherrell]

Super helpful! I am on pellets, and both my estradiol and testosterone are too high! Thanks to you I know what range to be in to get the least amount of side effects. ❤

[@sss1st]

how are you doing now?

[@aesherrell]

@@sss1st I changed my Biote provider and my levels are in the normal range now. I can’t quite go as low as Dr. Susan recommends because my body can’t tolerate it that low. Every woman is different. My 21 menopause symptoms went away and I feel like I’m in my 30s again, pretty great for being 52!

[@sss1st]

@@aesherrell Thank you for sharing, being a 54 your old woman would you think I should target my numbers. First meeting next week. thank you again for sharing.

[@dm2836]

@@aesherrellWhat symptoms were you having on the too-low dose to let you know your body wasn’t tolerating it?

[@aesherrell]

@@dm2836 there are a lot of symptoms, but the most obvious when my estrogen starts to get too low I feel anxiety, irritability, and inability to concentrate or think straight. When my testosterone gets low, I get body aches and my muscles hurt. It took me about a year to figure out what my numbers are and a lot of lab work so I know where my threshold is. Keep in mind every woman is different. I seem to be on the sensitive side and my body feels like it’s slowly dying from the inside out. I don’t just get a few symptoms, I get all of them and it was disabling.

[@snowps1]

I just got done watching a video by another lady saying not to use the pellets because the levels of hormones fluctuate too much. An initial injection you get a huge dose of hormones and then it just wears down. So I don't see how that's any different than the fluctuating levels of the patch.

[@AngelaSenn]

I did troches for testosterone and it did not go well. My breasts were extremely firm and very tender. After several months I started my period, cramps and all. Then, bloodwork showed my levels were too high. I did injections and loved how it made me feel, until they lowered my dose without bloodwork. No one ever told me I needed to have my liver enzymes tested. Wow. I truly appreciate your videos.

[@allisonwhisler4149]

I wish I could send you a side by side picture od when my obgyn put me on estrogen pills vs. when I finally went to a functional hormone doctor and got on pellets. Its crazy. I instantly gained ten pounds within five weeks in the estrogen pills. Estrogen and testosterone Pellets saved me. I went through early menopause at 42 after getting shingles.

[@sss1st]

Are you still doing well from the pellets?

[@GiGistitches]

Thank you for all your informative videos. I’m on the hunt for a Dr in my area that supports HRT. NO easy task. I broached my desire for HRT with my gynecologist and she said I just needed an antidepressant ☹️ she also said she could tell I didn’t need estrogen by looking at my cervix. Didn’t consider a blood draw. Gave me a prescription for an antidepressant and sent me on my way. I tossed the prescription and looked for a new Dr. The next Dr told me “HRT is not the standard of care for menopause” and refused to provide any HRT at all. I won’t give up, but so frustrating to say the least.

[@lainelynn70]

Did you have any success in finding an HRT dr??

[@GiGistitches]

@@lainelynn70 not yet ☹️ Still looking in my area

[@GiGistitches]

If anyone knows of some kind of resource that lists Drs that provide HRT by state that would be so helpful. Googling brings up too many invalid results

[@GiGistitches]

@@lainelynn70 IL

[@lainelynn70]

@@sheryldrobny9703 I think this is a great suggestion and I tried this In my area and I received nothing and they made me feel like an idiot for asking, it was weird. Apparently nobody in a 50+ mile radius of my home offers HRT.

[@pattycake178]

Just had my bloodwork done and hormones are low. I didn’t like the idea of the pellets but you’ve convinced me to try it. I will see what my Dr suggests. She assured me they start out very low. Now I just hope I can find a way to afford it 🥴😏 I have heard the insurance doesn’t cover it. I just retired so I will be finding out what my options are. 🙏

[@clt420]

I have pellets, prefer over cream. Didn’t want to pay out of pocket for it but now two years in not a regret. You are worth it. It is investing in your health and future 😊

[@jenniferhasenstab1406]

@@clt420I'm nervous but thinking about it after all of this. How has it helped you?

[@clt420]

@@jenniferhasenstab1406 in so many ways. Maybe too many too mention but I can try. I feel like my younger self and not like the life has been sucked out of me. My skin and energy is better, I don’t crave alcohol and after getting my pellets and listening to tons of podcasts and you tubers from many different backgrounds I know that I am helping prevent cardiac events, osteoporosis and cognitive decline by giving myself back what my body used to make. I kind of think do the body like a car and as we age some of our parts aren’t working as well and they need help to be optimized and I feel like that is what I am doing. I hope this helps. Oh and if you are healthy you can continue to be there for those you love 😀

[@waitstreetrimming]

Love, love, love my pellets❤

[@gjudd4193]

I did well on pellets for 12 years every 3-4 months, now they only last about 8 weeks and are too expensive for that. I now do at home injections twice a week and keep my levels very stable.

[@MrsCalabresesTeachingChannel]

What was the reason for this drop? Did the doctor tell you? Were you using a brand name for the pellets or a private doctor's prescription?

[@debrabenavidez3382]

We can inject the pellets at home ourselves?

[@gjudd4193]

@@debrabenavidez3382 no, it's not pellets. It's a shot of estradiol and testosterone.

[@04Serena]

@@gjudd4193 What kind of provider prescribes the testosterone injections for you? I can’t afford $350 per pellet, plus I’m an endurance cyclist, so would undoubtedly go through each pellet in less than 12 weeks...

[@gjudd4193]

@@04Serena My obgyn initially prescribed the T injections but wouldn't prescribe E so I went telemedicine and get both.

[@justine9980]

I’m new at trying BHRT and this video was extremely helpful!!

[@Mssilverbelle]

I just had my first Biote pellets inserted yesterday ( I'm 64 )... little nervous. I was a failure years ago at the creams , so was resigned to being surrounded by Jackasses ( JK ! :-) soooo many post menopause symptoms. I'm SO glad I found this because I was able to understand alot more about what I am doing!!! ( and can play this again.) Yes with ADD it's shoot, ready, aim. and add to the allergies I swear yesterday I heard "blah blah blah.. bu blah blah blah. "And the questions to ask moving forward. ( and how to explain it to my husband other than "you may like me better. " Thank you for posting this.

[@leslieadams-mueller9497]

I heard some women are having scar tissue issues, which then lead to absorption problems... Have you heard of that being a problem long term? After years of inserting the pellets? Thanks so much! love your videos.

[@drsusan]

Just like with anything, there are all kinds of problems that can happen when you're treated by an inexperienced provider but we have never had any such issue in our office. Pellets are placed through a 2 mm poke in the skin with a tiny introducer and we use a pellet that has an anti-inflammatory in the palate itself so the chance of getting any scar tissue so to speak is relatively close to zero.

[@Candleflower42-zp3sh]

I’m 71 on a patch (was sublingual before learning of slight risk with that) and am on once a week patch. I can’t tell a bit of difference in how I feel no matter level or even if go off, but seems it’d be better to have more even levels. Seems the twice a week would eliminate a lot of the variation of estrogen. Biggest problem for me with patch is not having testosterone. I’ve heard pellets are quite expensive another on con side for them.

[@kg7227]

This fluctuation in blood levels is happening with my testosterone pellet. High at initial insertion and then drops off at about the 7 week mark. Doctor said next pellet cannot be placed for another 8 weeks. So now what? The pellets do not always provide a stable level. They say they do but I am living proof they do not. I had blood work done to support my theory.

[@dianabouktache5740]

I feel the same. Got my first testosterone pellets. Felt good for a month. At the 6th week had a big panic attack from nowhere and now i feel like its gone.

[@drironmom6815]

Some women need the pellets replaced every 10 weeks. And your dose probably needs to be adjusted

[@kjbrocky]

Pellets are a bad idea. Transdermal is much better.

[@phoenixrising1305]

Can you kindly be more specific as to what you mean when you say “transdermal” ?

[@kjbrocky]

@@phoenixrising1305 Transdermal meaning topical, as applying a cream on the skin.

[@Idk-do4db]

I started hrt with just one pellet placement. Had bleeding bloating weight gain and felt anxious. Decided to stop and try estrogen gel and continue taking progesterone at night. Felt no control with pellet.

[@drsusan]

Yes, that is a great example of how problems can occur when you were given the wrong dose- too high ! I'm sorry that happened but don't give up.!

[@nancy97701]

My doctor took me off of hrt at age 73. The following year I was diagnosed with Sjogrens. After going off, my health went downhill. Could taking away hrt have affected my autoimmune system?

[@ruthannwhite6799]

Dr Susan, would you be willing to share your thoughts around how much progesterone is needed for 0.075 estradiol patch? I take 100mg and that has worked okay with occasional spotting. This last week, however, it has turned into a regular period with mild cramps. I am more active than the average 60year old, maintain a good weight and have a decent diet. I understand you cannot advise me specifically, I’m just wondering if the 100mg progesterone is too low for the estradiol dose I am on coupled with my activity level. Thank you for any thoughts you might be willing to share.

[@reneescott4500]

I just started the cream and I just turned 60 . A good idea for me.

[@almamanzo5889]

I had bad experience with the pallets testosterone was to high I had palpitations I can't sleep, gain weight 😫 so I don't know what to do

[@Diana-mu9vd]

Can you talk about injections and it’s pros and cons, cost, bioidentical?

[@herlindapenagarcia6844]

This excellent information. Truly makes a difference. Thank uou doctor.

[@Kaye._]

Love this broadcast. I was wondering how pellets actually work. I was considering going back to patches because of side effects of the pellets, but turns out my estrogen and testosterone was way to high. I’m hopeful I’m getting the right dosage now. Thank you, love your channel.

[@michellebailey4769]

It can take a while to get the right dosage. At my last visit (which was after a bloodwork check to see where my levels were) we found out that my testosterone was too high, so my Dr lowered my dosage but kept my estrogen the same. I noticed the difference within a week….and not in a good way. I go next week for new pellets as I’m due. I’m going to ask for more bloodwork.

[@Kaye._]

@@michellebailey4769 Thank you for your feedback. Great advice and will ask for bloodwork before next round of pellets.

[@christinat.7264]

Wow. Sounds like a crap shoot. But appreciate your honesty. Really concerned with unregulated estrogen that breast cancer can pop up. HRT still comes across as experimental with a lot of potential health problems (blood clots, stroke, various cancers, etc).

[@michellebailey4769]

@@christinat.7264 you need to read the book Estrogen Matters.

[@connierubio4906]

Best video yet Thank you!

[@marymonk]

If the pellets are stable what is the purpose of waiting six weeks to test? I just found your channel. Thank you for the info.

[@isol]

Excellent video and explanation 🤗

[@JessNicoleSTL]

Great information. Thank you.

[@christinasportiello8940]

Hello dear one. You re amazing. I just wanted to say one thing though as someone on pellets. :) They went too high with the T for me and I was stuck with it for months. I don’t like how invasive and sore it leaves me nor do I like going back over and over once I m healed to create another wound. My first point however is imperative to speak on. Controlling levels on a daily is by far safer than making a possible mistake that can’t be rectified for 4 months. What do you think about my point?

[@elizabethpalumbo6516]

Thank you! This video is soooo helpful!

[@robinmeekins1400]

Thank you for this video!!!! Very helpful!!!! 🙏👍

[@TheJhv37]

Estriol is also important

[@cparker7431]

Now I understand why 7 years ago I had a "period" or bleeding from bio-identical creme prescription for 6 weeks. It was a GP who was prescribing too. I just told him put me back on the pill. I really did feel good with the estrogen thpugh.

[@lindac528]

I came here after watching the video where Dominique Sachse gets the testosterone pellet. In it you say you also get the testosterone only pellet. In this video (recorded some time later,) you talk about your experience with the patch, which I assume you abandoned for the estrogen and testosterone pellet. For those of us considering going from estradiol patch to pellet, it would be most helpful to hear how you came to make that change.

[@mvneighbor4380]

I'd love to see you address the estrogen ring as well. It is still under patent so the price is high (I'm lucky I can afford the copay). From your videos on the patches, cream, and pellets I'm now wondering how stable my estradiol levels might be. I will ask for a level check since my provider didn't discuss dosing options, but I've been happy so far as the ring has definitely solved the vaginal dryness issue and I wake less often from hot flushes. Like the pellet it is only replaced every three months but is self inserted.

[@belleweather]

Why blood levels rather than saliva to monitor levels?

[@doodieevanshenagan3330]

I’m on 0.1 mg Estradiol, am 73 yrs old, been on this patch for several months……I have sensitive nipples‼️. Should I cut patch in half?? Am on testosterone cream & 200mg progesterone.

[@erinbuxton6787]

Thank you so much for this video!

[@charmaineclayton2018]

Thank you, but now I am even more confused, I stopped taking oral medication, now on the creams , I live in a very small town in Italy and I can only get my estriol cream , and progesterone cream and I take DHEA tablets with some 440mg Magnesium. I gained weight for the first time ever in my 61 years young.. I was a fitness teacher for over 20 years and only started all this menopause issue at 58 .. I do not have any access to a Dr to do pallets or doing the patches would be a hopeless for me.. I cycle a lot and sweat alot.. any advice pleae

[@angelaangella24]

What about compounded progesterone for people who are allergic to peanut? And is this form of progesterone effective and protective?

[@jw6180]

I’m using 3 creams (Progesterone, DHEA, and Estriol) on the Lunar cycle. 3 weeks on, 1 week off. How does that work with pellets?

[@kelljA]

Does anyone else think if these hormones were needed by men they would be either HIGHLY subsidised or free...

[@AnaSanchez-dw1xg]

I am starting biodentical estriol, estradiol, progesterone cream and biodentical dhea pills tomorrow. Hope it works.

[@mm669]

You just explained my hot flashes with the patch!!!!

[@delaneyondreams]

Thank you for naming Pellet names you like and trust. I found I liked the BIOTE site less offensively corporate greedy and makeup heavy than the "Eve...) It does list one MD GYN in my town. But one has to go each location to see what sort of person is their one or two practitioners. I am highly skeptical of Sites that seem more interested in everlasting beauty than health. One of my friends, and then Internist, partner of a former MD boyfriend, became the medical advisor of an MD-free "salon/spa" in the San Francisco Bay Area. The inside story did not reassure me at all. Supervision by a doc that does not know the procedures well is just a badge to mop up mistakes made by questionably trained practitioners. Beware.

[@jacquelinefoote8081]

Hi firstly thanks so much for this information,I live in the uk 🇬🇧 and I’ve been taking hrt for 18years now and a year ago I started using estrogen gel bio identical plus the testosterone and some progesterone which is a cyclogest but I’m having terrible insomnia once again which has been the worst symptom for me and I don’t absorb the gel very well as I have to use a lot to get my levels up but I’m wondering if the uk has something different for me as I don’t know how much more I can take of not being able to sleep 😢

[@Diana-mu9vd]

What blood work should you get if mid 30s female? And what day during cycle should hormones be measured? And is Testosterone the only hormone indicated to be given at this age?

[@beatscatmommy1735]

Did i hear you say testosterone levels should be between 100-150. Isnt that high? I thought range was 0-45

[@feelgoodyogautah2662]

0-45 is the range in the post menopausal untreated population. It is not optimal range. Optimal range is 100-150 mg/dl. Make sense?

[@jackiequigley1968]

I live in England do we have pellets here I’m 54 and need a hysterectomy and removal of tubes and ovaries I had trouble with the patches previously I’ve also tried the cream didn’t work well either

[@marinaghazal]

Hello , Susan . I leave in Europe , Romania . There is not a provider here ? Evexias and BioTe don’t have here a provider

[@barbarabindzus2134]

Thank you very much! 🙏 That was great!👍

[@denisewittman975]

I’ve had excellent results with Biote for years

[@springlycustomerservice983]

Thanks so much.

[@NotToday1971]

Just got mine, curious to see if I have any positive results

[@christinekeenan1560]

What are your thoughts on the patch and the progesterone pill ?

[@tammycarlisle5956]

I’m tired I’m hurting all over hot flashes and I feel bad my man don’t get it I need help!

[@minamatos2935]

Honey that’s terrible, that was me too. Go to your gyno and inform them of these issue and get on some HRT you’ll feel so much better. And also keep doing your research and make sure they check your levels first with labs. Wishing you the best. Also they usually try to put you on anti depressants, no! get hormone labs and go from there. ❤❤

[@dslovesau]

So can one pellet have both estrogen and testosterone all in one? Thank you so much

[@beatscatmommy1735]

They can insert both pelletes at same time in same area. So yes

[@rlweidner6656]

Why would I have a horrible reaction to pellet? Horrible muscle cramps and post blood work showed muscle breakdown and kidney function was eGFr of 50. I have a soy allergy could this have caused this reaction? I have since changed to cream

[@AngelaSenn]

I love your videos and wish you were in SC. I am currently doing estradiol cream and my levels are not going up at all. Almost like I am nit taking anything at all. But, if I stop using the cream, I get grumpy. I will definitely look into the pellets. Thank you so much.

[@neatoketo6238]

What is the cost for the pellets?

[@AngelaSenn]

I guess that depends on where you get them. But, I was using testosterone cream that costed $290.00 a month. That is not counting the $80 for progesterone pills and the cost of the estrogen cream. So, all in all, I do think the pellets are no more than that.@@neatoketo6238

[@AngelaSenn]

@@neatoketo6238 it depends on the provider you use. They can cost over $3000 a year. That is less than $300 a month. I was paying $290 a month just for testosterone cream, with a different provider.

[@zzzxxxzzz41823]

You must be on the payroll. I cannot imagine doing pellets considering HRT is so nuanced and not FIXED 24/7. Horrible advice. And I am on HRT and love it. All TOPICAL and I control the dosages daily.

[@mrsmc2612]

Please I am confused. What form of topical progesterone is there? Is it a prescription?

[@meganoneill4801]

What if one is 15 yrs post menopause and doesn’t suffer symptoms such as hot flashes, but is concerned about what is happening inside her body?

[@GabrielaChrapek-r7k]

Dr. Susan Could you please provide some doctors in Chicago area who can assist with this hormone therapy treatment I will appreciate it Thank you Gabriela

[@andreagriffin2485]

Considering BIOTE. What test have to be tan before starting the pellet? How often do I have to have blood tests done? What’s the average annual cost for tests and pellets for a year??? I am 42 had a complete hysterectomy at 27 everything was removed I did estradiol 2 mg for about four years the. I moved and switched providers and they took me off of the estrogen because they wouldn’t prescribe it to me so for the last 10 + years I have been without estrogen. I just recently went to the doc for extreme vag dryness, low libido, insomnia, fatigue, low energy, dry skin, hair thinning , mood swings etc.. I had my estradiol and FSH checked I am showing post menopause on both test my doctor had started me on 1 mg estradiol for 21 days then stop for 7 days and an estradiol cream three times a week but after seeing my results she wants me to consider pellet therapy rather than continuing to try and treat with the oral estradiol can you answer these question please I am 42 and my levels have me in post menopause

[@Teachbakeflip]

Thank you for your podcast. Very informative. I’ve heard from other HRT specialists that taking progesterone orally can raise cholesterol levels and that receiving it via an IUD is preferred. What are your thoughts on this?

[@drsusan]

There is zero evidence that progesterone alters cholesterol . Not true! . An IUD is also great but I like the sleep aspect from oral progesterone. Ask them for one single study that supports that opinion. There isn't one !

[@drsusan]

So sorry ! You can get more help !

[@janetr194]

@@drsusan I’m wondering how much swimming, using a hot tub and sauna affect the absorption rate of patches and pellets since I do all three almost daily. I’m concerned about how waterproof patches are and how high temperature affects the absorption rate of both patches and pellets. I’ve seen non authoritative info on estrogen dumping or patch dumping when estradiol patches are exposed to high temperatures. Is this a real thing and does it happen with both patches and pellets? Thx.

[@nikkigillan7483]

I have the same question @janet194. Did you ever find an answer?

[@LucyOfTheSeas]

I have read the same about cholesterol, Menopause Taylor has that in her videos stating it raises bad cholesterol

[@olderandwiser127]

What is your opinion of the Wiley protocol? This is the mrs, btw, not the drummer. 😉

[@michellejacquesvenable6068]

So my doctor said that with the testosterone pellet, my levels would be between 150 and 250. How can we get them lower than that? At least now I know that it is possible to have them lower. I didn’t think it was such a thing.

[@betha59]

I have been getting testosterone in my pellets for about a year now. I feel as though my entire genital area has become enlarged. Is that normal?

[@beachbreath2504]

That happened to me as well, it was too weird for me, so I choose to quit.

[@deborahc7113]

i posted a comment, can u enlighyened as to what drives my estrone level high, and is that not good?

[@Bomberfuel]

How do you transition from the patch to the pellet? What is the oral progesterone?

[@patriciacoughlin1654]

So then how do you get this pellet. Does both come in the same pellet or are they separate pellets, and how do you get them implanted? One one week and the other another week? O don't see this mentioned here.

[@laurieattaway43]

Hi. Thank you for the information. What are your thoughts on testosterone injections for women?

[@marinasolt6232]

Please tell me if Biote providers are OK with giving former breast cancer patients testosterone pellets? As you have pointed out, there’s no evidence that testosterone causes breast cancer, in fact there’s evidence that it is protective, but, of course, the misinformation is rampant. I am getting really frustrated with all the roadblocks I’ve encountered while trying to get what I need to feel like myself and have a decent quality of life.

[@drsusan]

Most educated providers would be happy to give you testosterone. Keep in mind not everyone is educated!

[@wendydasilva9503]

My hair is falling out.. Could it not be my testosterone tablets? I used to take 1 tablet every 3rd day but I gave stopped due to haiross.

[@markcavandish1295]

“Are you wearing your patch?” “No, but you’re still a jackass”. 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@claudinearce9109]

Can. HRT cause cancer in the thyroid? A friend of a friend got it after using HRT according to my friend.

[@lainelynn70]

Do you no longer have a website?

[@essentialadvantages6790]

Do any of the pellets contain preservatives, dyes, or anything harmful?

[@aprilkelly477]

How do you know that your hormones will be stable when taking the pellets? How can you tell how your body will absorb them and metabolize them?

[@drsusan]

Most importantly, you need to go to someone who understands the dosing very well and then you need to have your blood checked six weeks after the pellet and that way you confirm that everything was correct. Experience is critical with a pellet provider.

[@PsychoKittiesMovie]

Can HRT pellets improve bone density for post menopausal women with osteoarthritis?

[@manuelilla5949]

Pellets can improve it just like estradiol patches do. I still consider the patch much more advantageous...The pellet is a commercial advantage for those who sell it. The patch is accessible to everyone, you take it off when you want and they don't make little holes to put it on

[@drsusan]

Osteoarthritis is not improved with HRT- osteoporosis is improved. Those are different conditions so make sure you understand what's being treated !

[@PsychoKittiesMovie]

@@drsusan I must have typed my question when I was tired. I typed osteoarthritis, but I meant to type osteoporosis! 🤦🏻‍♀️ Can Biote pellets improve bone density for post menopausal women (conjunction with Evenity)?

[@melaniestell5383]

i have used pellets for 8 yrs & love them. But some providers don't like them cuz they say they r unregulated & u dont know how much ur getting---thoughts????

[@drsusan]

They are absolutely not unregulated. That is a myth and compounding pharmacies are very tightly regulated, and the levels are much more reliable than with the patch or other "FDA approved" medications like a pill which is flat out dangerous - so that is just misinformation that is widely spread. Many doctors are just not up-to-date on the literature and that is unfortunate but true.

[@deelicious1610]

Can you cut the patch in half and apply the halves separately a couple of days apart?

[@isabelsalzmann7932]

First pellet, after 4 weeks all levels good,estrogen a bit high..and 4 weeks later suddenly no estrogen left in body and alot of bleeding..anyone?