Shannon M. Crowe, MD, FACOG, NCMP
BioTE® Certified Practitioner
Dr. Crowe has been a board-certified OB/GYN in the Sugar Land area since 2000. She and Dr. Blonder co-founded Sweetwater OB/Gyn Associates in 2009.
She grew up in Northern Kentucky and graduated as Valedictorian at Villa Madonna Academy in Villa Hills, Kentucky. Dr. Crowe then attended Marquette University in Milwaukee, WI, on an academic scholarship and graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in English in 1992.
Hormone Pellet Therapy Purpose
The primary purpose of hormone pellet therapy is to restore hormonal balance within an individual’s body. This can be achieved by introducing bioidentical hormones via pellets placed just beneath the skin. By doing this, hormone levels can remain relatively constant throughout treatment, effectively addressing any symptoms present due to hormonal imbalances.
Your Hormone Imbalance Symptoms
When your body is unable to produce testosterone, progesterone, and estrogen, whether from menopause, aging, surgery, or a traumatic injury, you may notice a shift in how you feel.
Many people with a hormone imbalance may complain of these symptoms:
- RExhaustion and fatigue*
- RBrain fog and memory issues*
- RWeight gain*
- RMuscle and joint discomfort*
- RReduced sexual desire and performance*
- RAnd many more
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, talk to us, we can help!
What Is Biote Pellet Therapy?
The Biote Method of hormone optimization uses bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) pellets, which contain testosterone or estrogen that the body sees as identical to what it produces naturally.
BHRT pellets are:
- RAbout the size of a grain of rice
- RInserted subcutaneously
- RAbsorbed as the body needs them, helping optimize hormone levels
- RDosed precisely for each individual patient’s needs
When Will You See Results?
Most BHRT pellet therapy patients report relief as early as four weeks or less, while some see the most benefits after their second insertion.
Why Biote Hormone Therapy?
Whether you have low testosterone (Low T) or low estrogen, Biote hormone optimization can change your life.
People who have used pellet therapy say they experience:
Renewed Energy*
Better Sleep, Focus, & Clarity*
Improved Mood*
Restored Libido & Closer Relationships*
Improved Strength & Weight Loss*
Hormone Pellet Therapy Procedure
The procedure for hormone pellet therapy involves preparing the patient’s skin with an antiseptic solution before the insertion of the pellets. A local anesthetic is applied using a small needle to place the hormone pellets beneath the skin. These are usually placed on the buttocks or the flank. You or your partner cannot feel hormone pellets. After insertion, the pellets slowly release controlled amounts of hormones according to your cardiac output until they are ultimately used up after about three months for women and six months for men depending on the type and dosage your doctor prescribes.
Preparing for Hormone Pellet Treatment
Before beginning hormone pellet therapy, discussing your needs with a qualified medical professional at Sugar Land Hormones and Wellness Center is essential. During your initial consultation, you’ll be able to discuss your symptoms and goals of treatment and determine if there are any potential risks or side effects associated with treatment. Testing involves detailed lab and hormone testing, an up-to-date mammogram, and pelvic ultrasound for women. Additionally, patients should be prepared for periodic follow-up appointments throughout their hormone pellet therapy regimen so that their doctor can assess how they respond to the treatments. We also recommend holding baby aspirin and certain supplements three days before insertion.
Benefits of Hormone Pellet Treatment
Hormone pellet therapies provide many benefits due to their ability to deliver a consistent level of hormones over an extended period without frequent adjustments or invasive injections. The pellets are inserted under the skin, releasing small doses of hormones over several months, helping regulate various bodily functions while decreasing symptoms like fatigue, hot flashes, mood swings, insomnia, anxiety, low libido, loss of muscle mass, brain fog, and more. Other benefits include increased energy levels and improved skin tone.
Risks of Hormone Pellet Treatment
Although hormone pellet therapies have many benefits for restoring health and balance in individuals suffering from age-related hormonal decline, some risks are associated with this form of hormone replacement therapy. These include short-term soreness at the site where the pellets were inserted and potential allergic reactions to surgical tape. Your provider will go over any additional risks prior to the initiation of therapy.
Maintaining Your Health After Hormone Pellet Treatment
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle during and after hormone pellet therapy treatments is essential to ensure optimal results and avoid any additional risks associated with using hormones on an ongoing basis. Eating nutritious meals regularly while avoiding processed foods and sugary snacks is essential for maintaining good health throughout treatment cycles. Poor nutrition can cause hormonal imbalances, leading to undesirable treatment session results. Exercise is also beneficial for regulating your body’s response systems, including sleep patterns which can be affected by changing levels of hormones throughout treatment courses. Your provider will recommend a core of supplements that may help with hormone metabolism, especially DIM (diindolylmethane).
History of Hormone Pellet Therapy
Hormone Pellet Therapy (HPT) is a hormone replacement therapy involving small pellets containing hormones inserted under the skin. The use of hormones for medical treatment has a long history dating back to the early 1930s when scientists discovered that estrogen could treat menopausal symptoms. Since then, hormone therapy has evolved in many ways, and HPT is one of the newer developments.
The idea of using hormone pellets can be traced back to the 1970s when animal studies were done. The research showed that hormone pellets effectively treat specific hormone-related issues, especially for women suffering from menopausal symptoms. In the 1980s, the first clinical studies were conducted in humans, and the results were positive. Since then, HPT has grown in popularity and is one of the preferred hormone replacement therapies.
One of the main advantages of HPT is that it provides a steady and consistent release of hormones, making it more effective and predictable than other forms of hormone replacement therapy. Moreover, the pellets can be tailored to meet each patient’s needs, ensuring they receive the correct dosage based on their specific hormonal requirements.
The development of men’s hormone pellet therapy is not limited to women. HPT has also been used to treat men suffering from low testosterone levels, and many men have found it to be an effective treatment option. In addition, technological advancements have made HPT safer, more efficient, and easier to administer. For example, new techniques have been developed for inserting the pellets, and the pellets themselves are now made from biocompatible and biodegradable materials, reducing the risk of side effects.
Today, hormone pellet therapy for women is widely used in medicine, especially for women suffering from menopausal symptoms. It has become a popular alternative to traditional hormone therapy. However, several studies have shown that HPT is safe and effective, with few side effects, and it is likely to continue to be a popular treatment option.
In conclusion, Hormone Pellet Therapy has a rich and varied history, dating back to the early 1930s. The development of HPT represents an exciting advancement in medical technology, providing a safer and more effective alternative to other forms of hormone replacement therapy. Today, HPT is widely used by both men and women, and its continued success is a testament to its effectiveness and ease of use.
About Estrogen and Testosterone Pellets
Estrogen and testosterone pellets provide an effective, safe alternative to hormone replacement therapy. They are quickly gaining popularity nationwide, offering a convenient and long-lasting solution for patients needing regular hormone therapy and benefits that haven’t been recognized in other hormone replacement methods.
Hormone pellet therapy is quickly becoming a revolutionary approach to restoring balance in both men and women. It offers convenience and long-term effects compared with other forms of hormone therapy, such as pills or injections that need frequent follow-up visits. With proper treatment guidance from your doctor or health care practitioner, you can regain your vitality and enjoy life again!
Women’s Hormone Pellet Therapy
Hormone pellet therapy is becoming increasingly popular among women as a way to restore their hormone balance naturally. It works by inserting small pellets into the tissue under the skin, gradually releasing hormones into the body. The benefits of this method include improved energy levels, better sleep cycles, increased libido, increased muscle mass, elimination of hot flashes and night sweats, decreased vaginal dryness and pain, clearer thinking, improved sleep, and better overall moods due to the increased estrogen levels.
Women’s Hormone Pellet Therapy FAQs
What are the benefits of testosterone pellets in females?
What are the side effects of hormone pellets in females?
How much does hormone pellet therapy cost?
Do pellets help with weight loss?
Do hormone pellets cause weight gain?
What are the risks of hormone pellets?
What happens when you stop hormone pellets?
Men’s Hormone Pellet Therapy
Men can also benefit from hormone pellet therapy for various reasons. In addition to restoring hormone balance, it can improve muscle mass, reduce fatigue, enhance physical and sexual performance, and even increase stamina to help with daily activities. Pellets can also treat erectile dysfunction when prescribed by a doctor.
Men’s Hormone Pellet Therapy FAQ
What does hormone therapy do to a man?
Hormone therapy for men, specifically testosterone replacement therapy, can improve energy levels, muscle mass, bone density, sex drive, and overall quality of life. It can also help alleviate symptoms of low testosterone, such as hot flashes, mood swings, and fatigue.
When should men start hormone therapy?
Is hormone therapy good for men?
Yes, hormone therapy can be beneficial for men who are experiencing symptoms of low testosterone. It can improve energy levels, mood, and overall quality of life. However, weighing the risks and benefits with a medical professional before beginning treatment is important.
How much does male hormone therapy cost?
The cost of male hormone therapy varies depending on the specific treatment and the provider. It is essential to check with your insurance provider to see if hormone therapy is covered and to discuss pricing options with the provider. The current cost at SLH is $675-775
What are the risks of testosterone pellet therapy?
The risks of testosterone pellet therapy will be discussed in detail at the time of insertion. There is a small risk of tenderness at the site, bruising, infection or expulsion of the pellet.
Why would a man need hormone pellets?
What are the signs that you need hormone pellet therapy for men?
The signs that you may need hormone replacement therapy for men include fatigue, decreased sex drive, difficulty concentrating, mood swings, hot flashes, and muscle loss. However, talking to a medical professional is essential to determine if hormone therapy is necessary for each case.