Our Medical Services
Dr. Elizabeth Lourens
Dr. Lourens established
the first Age Management
clinic in Alberta devoted
to aging well, where
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement, weight-loss and aesthetic medicine has become a passion.
More about Dr. Lourens
Bio Identical Hormones FAQ
What is hormone therapy?
Hormone therapy is supplementing people with the hormones naturally produced by the body. Aging lowers the body's hormonal levels resulting in a gradual deterioration of all organs including the skin. Adding back these hormones can help offset some of the changes associated with aging. Hormone therapy is more effective when embedded in a more comprehensive program of dietary modification and nutrient supplementation.
Is it becoming more popular? If so, why?
It is becoming more popular. People are living longer and demanding treatments that can improve quality of life and appearance as they age, whether it is because they have to work longer or because they want to enjoy retirement. Hormones identical to those produced by our bodies are also more readily available and may have significantly fewer side effects than synthetic or hormone-like drugs.
How does Hormone Therapy work?
Hormone therapy restores and balances hormone levels more comparable to that of a younger person and increases vitality.
What cosmetic problems are treated with Hormone Therapy?
Aging skin and wrinkles. Hormone therapy keeps the skin looking younger and healthier and may have cosmetic benefits such as making wrinkles less severe if started early. Estrogen helps with skin elasiticity and may be beneficial in maintaining collagen. Hormone therapy should not be used solely for cosmetic purposes. The expected benefits must out weigh the risks; the patient must be assessed and the hormones administered by a physician with special training in hormone replacement therapy.
Is everyone a good candidate for hormone therapy?
No. We are all genetically very different and so are our hormone requirements. It is imperative that patients do their own research and talk to a qualified physicianractitioner before making a decision about hormones; in some cases the replacement of certain hormones might be contraindicated.
What are the risks associated with hormone therapy?
Just like any other medication, the use of hormones when not indicated or in excessive doses, can be dangerous. There is a delicate balance between all the hormones that need to be maintained for hormone therapy to be safe. People metabolize hormones differently. We believe in measuring levels and ratios of hormones.
