The Basics - Let’s understand hormones

Hormones control nearly every system in the body. They regulate energy, mood, sleep, metabolism, sexual health, and so much more. But as we age, hormone levels decline or shift — often leaving us with symptoms that can feel confusing, frustrating, or even overwhelming. At oneSIXONE Medical Aesthetics in San Juan Capistrano, we help men and women restore balance and vitality through Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT), a safe and effective way to bring your body back into harmony.

This guide will walk you through what BHRT is, how it works, who it helps, and why patients across Orange County choose Monica Alvarez, MPAP, PA-C, and the team at oneSIXONE for their hormone therapy care.

What Is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) uses hormones derived from natural plant sources that are structurally identical to the ones your body produces. Because they match your body’s natural chemistry, bioidentical hormones are processed more smoothly than synthetic alternatives, leading to more natural results and fewer unwanted side effects.

BHRT is commonly used to treat the symptoms of hormone imbalance in both women and men. Treatments are personalized after comprehensive lab testing, ensuring each patient receives the exact dosage and delivery method that fits their needs.

Common Symptoms of Hormone Imbalance

Hormonal changes are a natural part of aging, but the symptoms don’t have to control your quality of life. If you’ve been experiencing any of the following, hormone replacement therapy may help:

• Fatigue and low energy

• Difficulty sleeping or poor sleep quality

• Mood swings, anxiety, or irritability

• Weight gain, particularly around the midsection

• Hot flashes and night sweats

• Decreased libido and sexual dysfunction

• Brain fog and memory lapses

• Loss of muscle tone and strength

• Thinning hair or skin changes

Hormone Therapy for Women

For women, hormonal shifts often begin years before menopause in a stage called perimenopause. Symptoms can include irregular periods, sleep disturbances, irritability, and hot flashes. Once menopause sets in, estrogen and progesterone levels drop significantly, leading to more noticeable changes in the body and skin.

Hormone therapy for women with BHRT can:

• Relieve hot flashes and night sweats

• Restore energy and mental clarity

• Improve mood and reduce anxiety

• Support weight management and metabolism

• Improve vaginal dryness and sexual health

• Strengthen bone density and protect long-term health

Hormone Therapy for Men

Men experience age-related hormone decline too, often called andropause. As testosterone levels drop, many men report low energy, reduced motivation, changes in body composition, and decreased sexual performance.

Hormone therapy for men with BHRT can:

• Improve stamina, motivation, and energy

• Restore lean muscle mass and strength

• Support healthy weight and reduce stubborn fat

• Improve sexual performance and libido

• Enhance mental clarity and focus

• Support mood and emotional stability

Hormone Pellet Therapy

One of the most popular delivery methods at oneSIXONE is hormone pellet therapy. Tiny pellets, about the size of a grain of rice, are placed just beneath the skin in a quick, comfortable procedure. These pellets release a steady dose of hormones over several months, eliminating the need for daily pills or weekly injections.

Benefits of pellet therapy include:

• Consistent hormone levels without peaks and crashes

• Long-lasting relief, typically 3–6 months per pellet

• No daily maintenance or compliance issues

• A discreet and convenient option for both men and women

What to Expect with BHRT at oneSIXONE

Your hormone therapy journey is customized from start to finish. Here’s what the process looks like:

1. Consultation – During your first visit, Monica Alvarez, MPAP, PA-C, will listen to your symptoms, review your medical history, and discuss your health goals.

2. Lab Testing – A comprehensive blood panel is ordered to evaluate your hormone levels.

3. Personalized Plan – Monica designs a treatment plan tailored to your unique results. This may include creams, capsules, injections, or pellet therapy.

4. Treatment – Your therapy begins with precise dosing designed for safe, effective balance.

5. Monitoring & Adjustments – Regular follow-ups ensure your hormone levels remain optimal and your symptoms are improving.

Tips for Best Results

• Stay consistent with follow-up appointments and lab work.

• Adopt a healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and stress management.

• Be patient — while some notice changes within weeks, full results often develop over a few months.

• Communicate openly with your provider about any changes in symptoms.

Why People Choose oneSIXONE for BHRT

Patients across Orange County choose oneSIXONE because they want more than cookie-cutter medicine. At oneSIXONE, we combine medical expertise with personalized attention. Under the care of Monica Alvarez, MPAP, PA-C, every treatment plan is customized to your lab results, lifestyle, and health goals.

Our patients trust us because we:

• Use only FDA-regulated, evidence-based bioidentical hormones.

• Provide discreet, compassionate care in a modern, welcoming setting.

• Offer multiple treatment delivery methods, including hormone pellet therapy.

• Focus on whole-person health — from energy and sleep to sexual wellness and emotional balance.

• Prioritize natural results that help you feel like yourself again.

FAQs About BHRT

How soon will I feel better after starting BHRT?
Many patients notice improvements in energy, sleep, and mood within 2–6 weeks. More complete changes, such as body composition and sexual health, may take a few months.

Are bioidentical hormones safe?
Yes. Because bioidentical hormones are chemically identical to those your body makes, they are well-tolerated and safe when prescribed and monitored by a trained provider.

How long will I need BHRT?
The length of therapy depends on your goals, symptoms, and health. Many patients choose to continue long-term for consistent quality-of-life benefits.

Is BHRT just for women?
No. Both men and women benefit from hormone replacement. At oneSIXONE, we treat patients of all genders who are struggling with hormone-related symptoms.

What’s the difference between bioidentical hormones and synthetic hormones?
Synthetic hormones are chemically altered and may not match your body’s natural structure, sometimes causing side effects. Bioidentical hormones match your own hormones exactly, resulting in a more natural balance.

Take the First Step Toward Feeling Like Yourself Again

If fatigue, mood swings, hot flashes, or low energy have been holding you back, it may be time to consider bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. At oneSIXONE Medical Aesthetics, we’ll guide you with expertise, compassion, and a customized plan built around your life.

Call 949-899-0737 or schedule online today to book your BHRT consultation with Monica Alvarez, MPAP, PA-C.