How to Get Tested for Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy

By Jill Stansbury

Overview

With growing concern that synthetic hormones can cause vascular damage and contribute to hormonal related cancers, more and more women are opting for natural hormones. Getting tested for natural hormone therapy is a simple matter. Simple blood tests can identify the levels of hormones in your body. The hardest part may be finding a doctor who is familiar with natural hormone therapies. All naturopathic physicians are highly trained in this arena.

Step 1

The first step is to simply make an appointment with a physician for lab tests to determine the levels of hormones in your own body. The tests are the same, whether your intention is to use natural or synthetic hormones. Any physician can obtain your hormonal levels for you. However, if you want the physician to prescribe natural hormones, then it is best to seek out a physician knowledgeable about natural hormones. Consider contacting the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians for referral to a qualified practitioner. (See "Additional Resources," below.)
Step 2

There are two methods of assessing hormone levels in your body: with blood, or with salivary testing. Blood tests are by far most common, and every lab in the country can run these. The test itself involves either obtaining a vial of blood or a vial of saliva, and sending it off to the lab to assess the quantities of various hormones in your body. The results typically take just a few days. ZRT Laboratory in Oregon specializes in salivary hormone testing and has physicians available for phone consultations (see "Additional Resources," below, for more information).

Step 3

With results in hand, sit down with your doctor to discuss possible options for natural hormone replacement options. Not every menopausal women requires hormonal therapy. Your doctor will want to know your entire health history, and if there are any reasons why you should not take hormones. He will also want to consider any predisposition to osteoporosis or any uncomfortable menopausal symptoms, and can tailor any possible prescription for natural hormones to you. For example, some women may only require natural hormones for a limited time to alleviate hot flashes. In other cases, women may have no immediate symptoms to treat, but have a family history of osteoporosis that might be prevented by long-term supplementation with low doses of natural hormones.
Step 4

To fill your prescription, you will have to seek out a pharmacy that stocks natural hormones. Natural hormones are still rather new, and not all pharmacies carry them. One possible resource is www.shoprxtoday.com.

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