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Category: Women’s Health

Los Angeles Low Testosterone in Women
22Dec

What are a woman’s symptoms when she has too low a level of testosterone?

When it comes to regulating how the body functions, there are few substances more important than hormones. They are known as “chemical messengers” that travel throughout the body initiating and controlling pretty much everything that goes on. Insulin controls blood sugar levels and stores glucose so that we have sufficient energy levels when we need them. Thyroid is needed by every cell in the body in order to function properly. Everyone’s favorite, serotonin, is what makes us feel good.

Equally important is testosterone, known as the male sex hormone, although women also have testosterone and insufficient levels can lead to problems. For women, both testosterone and estrogen are produced by the ovaries. Testosterone plays an important role in body growth and maintenance, libido enhancement, and blood cell production, as well as supporting repairs in tissues of the reproductive system. How much testosterone is produced differs based on age and by the time women reach 40, the level is half of what it was when she was 20. Sometimes this can be a problem.

Symptoms of Low Testosterone Levels in Women

Symptoms of Low Testosterone Levels in Women Los Angeles

What happens when levels of testosterone in women are too low?

While the decrease in testosterone levels in women is natural and perfectly normal, if they reach too low, this can have a significant effect on the quality of life. This is especially true when the drop is from a reason other than normal aging, like loss of the ovaries due to surgery, chemotherapy, substance abuse, disease, certain medications, and even the use of birth control drugs. There is a wide range of symptoms that may indicate low levels of testosterone in women. Some of these include:

  • Lack of energy and prolonged listlessness and lethargy
  • Overall muscle weakness and loss of muscle tone
  • Continual and consistent fatigue without apparent reason
  • Inability to sleep through the night
  • Low or nonexistent sex drive
  • Lack of pleasure or satisfaction with sexual relations
  • Weight gain
  • Issues with fertility
  • Menstrual cycles that are irregular or disappear altogether
  • Dryness in the vaginal area
  • Loss of bone density
  • Leaky bladder

Not surprisingly, one last symptom that needs to be included on that list is depression. It is certainly easy to understand at least some level of depression when dealing with any of those, let alone several. To make things worse, it is not uncommon for low testosterone levels to be considered just a “normal” part of menopause that must simply be expected.

One of the biggest obstacles to effective treatment for women struggling with proper levels of testosterone is the lack of research. Most physicians have little understanding of just how significantly women are affected by low testosterone and, consequently, are often at a loss as to treatment options. Some suggestions that are often considered are:

  • Therapy, regular and sex therapy
  • Stress management techniques
  • Making sure to get a good night’s sleep
  • A better diet

While these are good recommendations for most people, it is unlikely that they will adequately address levels of testosterone that are too low. A better course may be to find a healthcare professional familiar with this issue and get the most informed advice possible.

The Southern California Center for Anti-Aging focuses on the practice of advanced, preventive and regenerative medicine. We strongly believe correcting imbalances and deficiencies in nutrition, along with improving fitness and balancing and restoring hormones with Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, can help with creating the foundation for a healthier and happier life.

To learn more about our programs or if you have questions about any of our services, take advantage of our Free Consultation by filling out our convenient online form below.

Related Content

Los Angeles Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
Peptide Therapy Main Page
Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Human Growth Hormone (HGH)
Estrogen Replacement Therapy

Postmenopausal Women and Sex Los Angeles
15Nov

Is it true that a woman’s sex drive decreases dramatically after menopause?

Not that long ago, menopause, or, as it was commonly called in voices lowered so as not to be any more offensive than necessary, “the change”, was discussed in much the same way as a terminal illness. Even though everyone knew that it was a state that all women transition into as hormone production slows and menstrual cycles come to an end, menopause had long been treated as something shameful. Something to hide. Definitely not a topic to be openly discussed.

Times have changed! While it is still a struggle for some women to embrace the fact that they are entering a stage in their lives that signals aging and the end of their ability to conceive, many more are looking to this time as a positive change; a time of increased possibilities and freedom.

Menopause is no longer looked at as the beginning of the end for a woman, the loss of her vibrancy, femininity and attractiveness. It is simply a natural transition in which the ovaries no longer produce estrogen and progesterone. The symptoms that go with this hormonal decrease can include temporary periods of irritability, moodiness, hot flashes and depression. The severity of these symptoms differ from one woman to the next and may range from mild to severe. On the flip side, however, there is also a sense of freedom that comes from no longer having to worry about the potential of becoming pregnant, plus anticipation about the new possibilities opening up in this next stage of life.

Is a Woman’s Sex Life Over After Menopause?

Woman’s Sex Life After Menopause Los Angeles

One previously assumed effect of a woman being postmenopausal that is not being accepted by a growing number of women is that they can no longer have a vibrant and satisfying sex life. In the past, most women assumed or were told that they should expect a loss of sexual desire, as well as sex becoming less satisfying, once they became postmenopausal.

But is that true? Statistics do show that sexual activity decreases with age, but is it due to menopause?

The drop in hormonal levels can definitely affect libido. This can also lead to vaginal dryness. This makes intercourse painful, which, by itself, can promote avoidance. Although this is a serious issue, it is also easily overcome with a variety of lubrication products that are readily available.

The truth is, there are many reasons for the decline in the frequency and level of desire for sexual activity in women who have reached the postmenopausal years. Some of the more common causes include:

  • Issues with incontinence or bladder control
  • Difficulty with sleeping through the night which creates ongoing fatigue
  • Anxiety
  • Chronic stress
  • Depression
  • Prescribed medications, especially those for high blood pressure that come with the side effect of lowering sexual desire
  • Health concerns, like cancer, stroke, heart attack or other serious conditions
  • Relationship issues with spouse or partner

The answer to the question of whether a woman has to give up on having a satisfying sex life after menopause is “no”. There may be issues, physical, emotional and situational, that are affecting the desire for and pleasure derived from sexual activity, but these will vary from one woman to another and that is how they need to be addressed. For each factor creating an issue, there may be a variety of ways to overcome or compensate for the problem.

What women really want are answers. Not the ones that were blindly accepted by women in the past but answers for them, personally. They also want to be able to talk openly about all of this with their healthcare professional and get recommendations and solutions based on today’s science.

Woman’s Sex Life After Menopause Los Angeles

The Southern California Center for Anti-Aging focuses on the practice of advanced, preventive and regenerative medicine. We strongly believe correcting imbalances and deficiencies in nutrition, along with improving fitness and balancing and restoring hormones with Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, can help with creating the foundation for a healthier and happier life. To learn more about menopause or if you have questions about any of our services, take advantage of our Free Consultation by clicking here to use our convenient online form.

 

Related Content

Los Angeles Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
Peptide Therapy Main Page
Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Human Growth Hormone (HGH)
Women’s Hormone Replacement Therapy
Menopause Treatment

Los Angeles Low Testosterone in Women
17Oct

What are a woman’s symptoms when she has too low a level of testosterone?

When it comes to regulating how the body functions, there are few substances more important than hormones. They are known as “chemical messengers” that travel throughout the body initiating and controlling pretty much everything that goes on. Insulin controls blood sugar levels and stores glucose so that we have sufficient energy levels when we need them. Thyroid is needed by every cell in the body in order to function properly. Everyone’s favorite, serotonin, is what makes us feel good.

Equally important is testosterone, known as the male sex hormone, although women also have testosterone and insufficient levels can lead to problems. For women, both testosterone and estrogen are produced by the ovaries. Testosterone plays an important role in body growth and maintenance, libido enhancement, and blood cell production, as well as supporting repairs in tissues of the reproductive system. How much testosterone is produced differs based on age and by the time women reach 40, the level is half of what it was when she was 20. Sometimes this can be a problem.

Symptoms of Low Testosterone Levels in Women

Symptoms of Low Testosterone Levels in Women Los Angeles

What happens when levels of testosterone in women are too low?

While the decrease in testosterone levels in women is natural and perfectly normal, if they reach too low, this can have a significant effect on the quality of life. This is especially true when the drop is from a reason other than normal aging, like loss of the ovaries due to surgery, chemotherapy, substance abuse, disease, certain medications, and even the use of birth control drugs. There is a wide range of symptoms that may indicate low levels of testosterone in women. Some of these include:

  • Lack of energy and prolonged listlessness and lethargy
  • Overall muscle weakness and loss of muscle tone
  • Continual and consistent fatigue without apparent reason
  • Inability to sleep through the night
  • Low or nonexistent sex drive
  • Lack of pleasure or satisfaction with sexual relations
  • Weight gain
  • Issues with fertility
  • Menstrual cycles that are irregular or disappear altogether
  • Dryness in the vaginal area
  • Loss of bone density
  • Leaky bladder

Not surprisingly, one last symptom that needs to be included on that list is depression. It is certainly easy to understand at least some level of depression when dealing with any of those, let alone several. To make things worse, it is not uncommon for low testosterone levels to be considered just a “normal” part of menopause that must simply be expected.

One of the biggest obstacles to effective treatment for women struggling with proper levels of testosterone is the lack of research. Most physicians have little understanding of just how significantly women are affected by low testosterone and, consequently, are often at a loss as to treatment options. Some suggestions that are often considered are:

  • Therapy, regular and sex therapy
  • Stress management techniques
  • Making sure to get a good night’s sleep
  • A better diet

While these are good recommendations for most people, it is unlikely that they will adequately address levels of testosterone that are too low. A better course may be to find a healthcare professional familiar with this issue and get the most informed advice possible.

The Southern California Center for Anti-Aging focuses on the practice of advanced, preventive and regenerative medicine. We strongly believe correcting imbalances and deficiencies in nutrition, along with improving fitness and balancing and restoring hormones with Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, can help with creating the foundation for a healthier and happier life.

To learn more about our programs or if you have questions about any of our services, take advantage of our Free Consultation by filling out our convenient online form below.

Related Content

Los Angeles Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
Peptide Therapy Main Page
Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Human Growth Hormone (HGH)
Estrogen Replacement Therapy

pms and pmdd los angeles |
10Oct

How do I know if I have PMS or if it is really premenstrual dysphoric disorder?
Most people are familiar with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Healthcare professionals estimate that roughly 75% of menstruating women experience at least some of the symptoms of PMS, which include cramps, mood swings, tender breasts, food cravings and fatigue. Often fodder for jokes, women who struggle with these issues, month after month, know that they are anything but funny.
Less well-known is the more severe and potentially disabling extension of PMS known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Similar in that both share many of the same physical and emotional symptoms, those associated with PMDD can be so debilitating that they can damage relationships, both personal and work-related. Many factors contribute to PMS, but the main cause is hormonal imbalance, specifically related to changing levels of estrogen and progesterone. What pushes regular PMS symptoms to PMDD levels is currently unknown. It is thought that underlying mood disorders of depression and anxiety are exacerbated by the hormonal changes that kick off the menstrual period.

Symptoms of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

premenstrual dysphoric disorder los angeles

Symptoms of PMDD occur during the week leading up to the menstrual period and go away after it starts. If five or more of the following symptoms are present, your doctor may diagnose PMDD:

  • Extreme sadness or despair, including thoughts of suicide
  • Feelings of tension or anxiety
  • Panic attacks
  • Mood swings
  • Frequent bouts of crying
  • Persistent irritability with other people
  • Irrational anger at others
  • Loss of interest in regular activities and relationships
  • Inability to concentrate or focus
  • Tiredness or lack of energy
  • Food cravings or binge eating
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Feeling out of control
  • Hot flashes
  • Physical symptoms, such as bloating, breast tenderness, headaches and joint or muscle pain

The symptoms of regular PMS can often be reduced or eliminated through a combination of diet and lifestyle changes. Some of these include:

  • Regular exercise, including at least 30 minutes of aerobic activity daily
  • A healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables and whole grains
  • Avoiding excess salt, sugar, caffeine and alcohol, especially while having PMS symptoms
  • 8 hours of sleep each night.
  • Finding healthy ways to cope with stress, for example, journaling, yoga, massage, meditation or relaxation therapy
  • Not smoking

exercise woman los angeles

Like PMS, treating PMDD has the goal of preventing or minimizing symptoms. Many of the same methods that are used for treating PMS are also beneficial with regard to PMDD. Antidepressants, specifically selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), may reduce certain symptoms of PMDD by taking the SSRIs all month or only in the interval between ovulation and the start of the menstrual period. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved three SSRIs for the treatment of PMDD:

  • Sertraline (Zoloft)
  • Fluoxetine (Sarafem)
  • Paroxetine HCI (Paxil CR)

Birth control pills, counseling or therapy and stress management may also be helpful. For those seeking other methods of treating symptoms associated with the menstrual cycle, the Southern California center for Anti-aging offers testing and a program to return hormones to a balanced state using bioidentical (never synthetic) hormones.  In addition, a customized nutritional and lifestyle plan can be designed just for you.
At the Southern California Center for Anti-Aging, we strongly believe correcting imbalances and deficiencies in nutrition, along with improving fitness and balancing and restoring hormones with Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, can offer help with PMS issues, while creating the foundation for a healthier and happier life.
To learn more or to discuss any of our services, take advantage of our Free Consultation by clicking here to use our convenient online form.

happy woman los angeles

premenstrual syndrome los angeles
29Aug

During the Olympics, Chinese swimmer Fu Yuanhui made headlines from Beijing to California when she mentioned that her period threw her off during a race. Her less-than-perfect swim time wasn’t what put her in the spotlight, however. Instead, it was her monthly cycle that drew attention from the media, and all because discussing such matters is generally taboo. But why is that the case? Why do we shy away from discussing something that impacts up to 75 percent of all American women who menstruate?
If you’re a woman, you’ve no doubt experienced issues caused by your menstrual cycle. Indeed, premenstrual syndrome, commonly referred to as PMS, is one of the most common forms of hormonal imbalance affecting women. While each body is different, cramping, bloating, strange food cravings, fatigue, nausea, sore breasts, and acne are all normal and common for women during that “time of the month” — not to mention the tension, anxiety, emotional outbursts, mood swings, and loss of confidence that can come with it. It might come as no surprise then, that a recent article from The Bristol Post cites that women in the UK miss more than six million days of work every year due to period-related symptoms. And I know women who have cancelled or avoided important activities — like first dates, beach outings, and athletic events — to avoid doing them with PMS issues.

premenstrual syndrome los angeles

What causes PMS pains? Ultimately, the main underlying cause is a hormonal balance, specifically in levels of estrogen and progesterone. Furthermore, off levels of serotonin in the brain can lead to premenstrual depression and sleep problems. And don’t think that it’s going to get better as your body adjusts to regular menstrual cycles over time. As women near menopause, hormones decline, causing worsening symptoms with the passage of time.
Thankfully, you don’t have to live with the common symptoms of PMS. In fact, there are
several things that you can do to combat them. For starters, it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, both in general and in the days around your period. While you might feel like munching on greasy fast foods and sweets, caving into the cravings won’t do much for your wellness. To fight the temptation, keep your fridge stocked with fresh fruits and veggies and drink plenty of water to reduce bloating. Supplements like folic acid, vitamin B-6, calcium, and magnesium are also helpful for easing period woes.

los angeles drinking water

Rest and relaxation can also fight off PMS symptoms. Try to get at least eight hours of sleep a night (reducing caffeine and completing 30 minutes of aerobic movement can help you get the most out of your sleep cycle!) and try stress-reduction techniques, like yoga, massage, and deep-breathing exercises.
Of course, all of this is easier said than done. If you’re regularly struggling with PMS, it might be best to come in and discuss customized lifestyle plans and bioidentical hormone options. Together, we can determine what’s missing or off and form a customized plan to treat the cause of your PMS symptoms.

anti aging los angeles
11Jul

The Best Anti-Aging Clinic in Los Angeles

Due to the emergence of Anti-Aging Medicine, it is no longer necessary to accept the mental and physical decline associated with aging. A century ago the average life expectancy was 43 to 47. Today, life expectancy has almost doubled, due mostly to advances in medicine and technology. The rapid rate of these advances may put one in position to take advantage of cutting edge technologies in the pipeline, such as genetic engineering, stem cell transplants, therapeutic cloning, nanotechnology, and artificial organs. However, a longer life span is only desirable if living longer means living stronger, healthier, and without disabilities.

anti-aging clinics los angeles

This is the premise of Anti-Aging Medicine. It is also known as

  • Age Management Medicine
  • Longevity Medicine
  • Preventive-Regenerative Medicine
  • Optimal Aging Medicine

Preventive-Regenerative Medicine is a new specialty of health care based on early detection, prevention, and reversal of the degenerative effects of aging. The primary goal is living healthier for a longer period of time.

The Anti-Aging specialty began in 1993 when twelve forward thinking physicians formed the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine (also known as A4M). Today, the Academy is composed of 20,000 physicians and scientists from over 100 countries. It is the fastest growing scientific society in the world. The Academy is devoted to examining scientific research pertaining to:

  • Cause of illnesses
  • The aging Process
  • And the decline in physical and mental function as aging occurs

What are the Principles of Anti-Aging medicine?

The principals of Preventive-Regenerative Medicine are well documented in medical and scientific journals. In addition, they are based on sound and responsible medical care. While traditional medicine focuses on treating the effects of the aging process, Anti-Aging Medicine focuses on treating or preventing the causes of aging. Stated differently, traditional medicine predominately treats external symptoms that have internal causes. On the contrary, Anti-Aging Medicine addresses the internal causes in order to prevent external symptoms. The different approach may sound subtle. That being said, it can produce substantial differences in a person’s health and well-being.

 

What are The Modalities of Anti-Aging Medicine?

As an Anti-Aging clinic in Los Angeles, CA, you might be wondering what modalities we use. In order to deliver our anti-aging medicine, Dr. Judi Goldstone uses a combination of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, Testosterone Treatment, Peptides and more. In addition, Dr. Goldstone’s weight loss and medical weight loss departments help people with diet needs.

Anti-Aging Clinics in Los Angeles & Holistic Health

You have to understand that the functional medicine and anti-aging models follow a holistic protocol. That means that the body is treated as a whole. On the contrary in traditional medicine, you would have to see a rheumatologist for obscure autoimmune system, a gastrologist for gut issues and so on and so forth. This presents a multitude or problems. For one, each doctor is zero’d in on one part of the body they are trained to be so-called experts in. Thus, they fail to take into account if the gastrointestinal issues are merely a symptom of the main issue or root cause. What you have is a domino effect of failing to follow best practices. If you are suffering from acid-reflux, IBS or any sort of gut ailment, the Gastroenterologists might prescribe something like Prevacid. This medication has the potential to disrupt the balance of digestive juices in your gut. Thus creating the potential that can lead to further, more serious health problems. The protocol when you have a more serious condition calls for either more prescription drugs or even surgery which compromises your system forever.

los angeles anti-aging clinics | Holistic health

Anti-Aging & Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy

When it comes to being an anti-aging clinic in Los Angeles, Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is the meat and potatoes of what we do. Depending on your goals, needs and ailments, a proper bioidentical hormone program can change your life. By optimizing your hormone levels, you can treat energy, fatigue, chronic pain and more.

los angeles anti-aging clinics and bioidentical hormones

If you desire to live a longer, healthier and more productive lifestyle, call the Southern California Center For Anti-Aging today at 424.247.4962.

The Southern California Center For Anti-Aging Medicine serves patients throughout

  • Los Angeles County
  • Torrance
  • San Pedro
  • LA
  • LA Metro
  • Hermosa, Beach
  • Carson
  • Lomida
  • Marina Del Rey
  • Rancho
  • Palos Verdes
  • Manhattan Beach
  • Redondo Beach

Related Content

Los Angeles Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
Peptide Therapy Main Page
Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Human Growth Hormone (HGH)
Estrogen Replacement Therapy