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Arabic Doctor Nishath Hakim Addresses Unique Healthcare Concerns of Muslim Women

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Our Doctors Respect the Religious & Cultural Needs of Muslim Women

Muslim women face unique healthcare challenges that extend far beyond medical symptoms to include cultural considerations, religious practices, and deeply held values that must be respected and understood. But this intersection of faith, culture, and healthcare often creates complex situations that require not only medical expertise but also cultural sensitivity and genuine understanding of Islamic principles and traditions.

While the Detroit area is home to thousands of Arabic individuals, many Muslim women struggle to find healthcare providers who truly comprehend their needs. And this can lead to delayed care, inadequate treatment, or avoidance of necessary medical attention due to concerns about cultural misunderstanding or insensitive care.

The importance of finding a healthcare provider who shares similar cultural background and religious understanding cannot be overstated, as this connection enables open communication, builds trust, and ensures that medical care aligns with personal values and religious requirements. Muslim women often face additional barriers to healthcare access, including language barriers, modesty concerns, dietary restrictions, prayer obligations, and family dynamics that can significantly impact their healthcare experience and outcomes. These challenges are particularly pronounced in communities where Muslim women may feel misunderstood or marginalized within the broader healthcare system.

At Prosperity Health in the Troy, MI area, Arabic woman doctor Nishath Hakim brings both exceptional medical expertise and deep cultural understanding to address the unique healthcare needs of Muslim women. Dr. Hakim’s Arabic heritage provides her with invaluable insight into the cultural, religious, and social factors that influence Muslim women’s health and healthcare decisions. This combination of medical excellence and cultural competency creates a safe, understanding environment where Muslim women can receive comprehensive healthcare that honors their values while addressing their medical needs with compassion and respect.

The Importance of Cultural Competency for Muslim Woman Doctor Care

Cultural competency in healthcare extends beyond simple awareness of different customs to include deep understanding of how religious beliefs, cultural practices, and social expectations influence health behaviors, treatment compliance, and healthcare decision-making processes. For Muslim women, cultural competency means having a healthcare provider who understands the significance of modesty requirements, the importance of family involvement in healthcare decisions, and the need to consider religious obligations when planning treatment schedules and recommendations.

The impact of cultural misunderstanding in healthcare settings can be profound, leading to misdiagnosis, inappropriate treatment recommendations, poor patient compliance, and overall dissatisfaction with healthcare experiences. Muslim women may face challenges such as male healthcare providers who don’t understand modesty requirements, scheduling conflicts with prayer times or religious observances, dietary recommendations that conflict with halal requirements, or treatment plans that don’t consider family dynamics and decision-making processes that are important within Islamic culture.

Having a healthcare provider who shares cultural background and religious understanding eliminates many of these barriers and creates an environment where Muslim women feel comfortable discussing sensitive health issues, asking questions about how treatments might affect their religious practices, and receiving care that aligns with their values and beliefs. Troy, MI area female doctor Nishath Hakim provides culturally sensitive healthcare that acknowledges and respects the unique needs of Muslim women while delivering the highest quality medical care available.

Addressing Modesty and Privacy Concerns with a Muslim Woman Doctor

Modesty requirements represent one of the most significant healthcare concerns for many Muslim women, as Islamic principles emphasize the importance of maintaining privacy and dignity during medical examinations and procedures. These requirements can create anxiety and barriers to healthcare access when Muslim women are unsure whether their modesty needs will be understood and respected by healthcare providers. The presence of male healthcare providers, inadequate privacy measures, or insensitive handling of modesty concerns can lead to delayed or avoided medical care. But you can visit Prosperity Health in the Troy, MI area with confidence, knowing that there are no male doctors at our practice.

The concept of hijab extends beyond head covering to include broader principles of modesty that affect how Muslim women interact with healthcare providers, particularly regarding physical examinations, discussions of reproductive health, and treatment of conditions that require exposure of the body. Understanding these principles and implementing appropriate measures to maintain modesty while providing thorough medical care requires specialized knowledge and sensitivity that not all healthcare providers possess.

Our female healthcare providers understand Islamic modesty requirements and offer Muslim women the comfort and security needed to receive comprehensive medical care without compromising their religious values. This includes ensuring adequate privacy, providing appropriate draping during examinations, understanding when mahram accompaniment may be preferred, and creating an environment where Muslim women feel their modesty is protected and respected. Troy, MI area female doctor Nishath Hakim provides healthcare in a setting that fully respects and accommodates modesty requirements while ensuring that medical care is thorough and comprehensive.

Reproductive Health Care from a Female Muslim Doctor

Reproductive health represents a particularly sensitive area of healthcare for Muslim women, involving topics that require cultural sensitivity, religious understanding, and careful navigation of personal values and medical needs. Issues such as contraception, fertility treatments, prenatal care, and gynecological health must be discussed within the context of Islamic principles and individual circumstances, requiring healthcare providers who understand both the medical and religious aspects of these concerns.

Family planning decisions within Islamic culture often involve consideration of religious teachings, family dynamics, and cultural expectations that may differ significantly from mainstream approaches to reproductive health. Muslim women may have questions about which contraceptive methods are permissible according to Islamic law, how fertility treatments align with religious principles, or how to balance personal health needs with religious and cultural obligations regarding childbearing and family size.

Prenatal care for Muslim women may involve special considerations regarding dietary requirements during pregnancy, fasting during Ramadan while pregnant or breastfeeding, prayer accommodations during labor and delivery, and postpartum practices that align with Islamic traditions. Understanding these needs and providing appropriate guidance requires healthcare providers who are knowledgeable about Islamic practices. Troy, MI area female Arabic doctor Nishath Hakim offers comprehensive reproductive healthcare support that honors Islamic principles while providing evidence-based medical care that supports optimal health outcomes.

Mental Health Support from a Muslim Woman Doctor

Mental health concerns among Muslim women often involve complex interactions between personal struggles, cultural expectations, religious beliefs, and social pressures that require specialized understanding and culturally appropriate treatment approaches. Many Muslim women face unique stressors related to cultural adaptation, discrimination, family dynamics, and the challenge of balancing traditional values with modern life demands, all of which can impact mental and emotional wellbeing.

The stigma surrounding mental health issues within some Muslim communities can create additional barriers to seeking help, as women may worry about bringing shame to their families or being perceived as lacking in faith if they struggle with depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions. Having a healthcare provider who understands these cultural dynamics and can address mental health concerns within an Islamic framework can be crucial for encouraging women to seek the help they need.

Islamic principles of healing and wellness can be integrated with evidence-based mental health treatments to create comprehensive approaches that address both psychological and spiritual aspects of wellbeing. This may include discussing how Islamic practices such as prayer, meditation, community support, and reliance on Allah can complement medical treatments for mental health conditions. Troy, MI area female doctor Nishath Hakim provides compassionate mental health support that incorporates understanding of Islamic values while utilizing effective therapeutic interventions to help Muslim women achieve optimal emotional and psychological wellness.

Nutritional Guidance and Halal Considerations from a Female Muslim Doctor

Nutritional counseling for Muslim women must take into account halal dietary requirements, cultural food preferences, and religious observances such as Ramadan fasting that can significantly impact dietary patterns and nutritional status. Many healthcare providers lack understanding of Islamic dietary laws and may provide nutritional recommendations that conflict with religious requirements, creating confusion and compliance challenges for Muslim patients.

Ramadan fasting also presents unique nutritional considerations that require specialized knowledge to provide appropriate guidance for maintaining health while observing religious obligations. This is particularly important for Muslim women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, diabetic, or managing other health conditions that may be affected by changes in eating patterns during the holy month. Understanding both the religious significance of fasting and the medical implications requires cultural and religious knowledge combined with nutritional expertise.

Traditional Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisines that are common among Muslim communities have unique nutritional profiles and health benefits that should be considered when providing dietary guidance. Rather than dismissing cultural foods in favor of generic nutritional recommendations, Arabic doctor Nishath Hakim will work within traditional Muslim dietary patterns to promote optimal health while respecting cultural preferences and religious requirements. Troy, MI area female  doctor Nishath Hakim provides nutritional guidance that respects halal requirements and cultural food traditions while promoting optimal health through evidence-based dietary recommendations.

Managing Chronic Conditions with Muslim Woman Doctor Expertise

Chronic disease management for Muslim women requires consideration of how religious practices, cultural factors, and family dynamics may impact treatment compliance, lifestyle modifications, and long-term health outcomes. Conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, and autoimmune diseases require ongoing management strategies that must be adapted to accommodate prayer schedules, fasting obligations, dietary restrictions, and cultural approaches to health and illness.

Medication management may involve special considerations for Muslim women, including ensuring that medications are halal, adjusting dosing schedules around prayer times and fasting periods, and understanding how cultural attitudes toward illness and treatment may affect compliance with medical recommendations. Some medications may contain ingredients derived from non-halal sources, requiring healthcare providers to work with patients to find appropriate alternatives when necessary.

The role of family in healthcare decision-making within Muslim communities can significantly impact chronic disease management, as treatment plans may need to consider family input, support systems, and cultural expectations regarding caregiving and illness management. Understanding these dynamics and working collaboratively with patients and their families can improve treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction. Troy, MI area woman doctor Nishath Hakim provides comprehensive chronic disease management that takes into account religious, cultural, and family factors while ensuring optimal medical care and health outcomes.

Preventive Care and Health Screening for Muslim Women

Preventive healthcare for Muslim women must address potential barriers to screening and early detection services while providing education about the importance of regular health maintenance within an Islamic framework. Many Muslim women may delay or avoid certain screening procedures due to modesty concerns, lack of female healthcare providers, or cultural misconceptions about preventive care.

Cancer screening programs, including mammography, cervical cancer screening, and colonoscopy, may require special accommodations to ensure that Muslim women feel comfortable participating in these important preventive measures. This includes ensuring female technicians when possible, providing adequate privacy and modesty protection, and educating women about the Islamic perspective on preventive healthcare and early detection of disease.

Health education for Muslim women should incorporate Islamic principles of taking care of one’s body as a trust from Allah, emphasizing the religious obligation to maintain health and seek medical treatment when needed. This approach can help overcome cultural barriers to preventive care while encouraging Muslim women to take an active role in maintaining their health. Troy, MI area female doctor Nishath Hakim provides comprehensive preventive care services that are culturally appropriate and respectful of Islamic values while ensuring that Muslim women receive all necessary screening and preventive interventions for optimal health maintenance.

Building Trust and Communication with a Muslim Woman Doctor

Effective communication between healthcare providers and Muslim women requires understanding of cultural communication styles, family dynamics, and the importance of building trust through demonstrated respect for religious and cultural values. Many Muslim women may feel more comfortable discussing sensitive health issues with female healthcare providers who share their cultural background and understand their unique concerns and perspectives.

The development of trust in healthcare relationships is particularly important for Muslim women who may have experienced cultural insensitivity or discrimination in previous healthcare encounters. Building this trust requires consistent demonstration of cultural respect, religious sensitivity, and genuine care for patients’ overall wellbeing, not just their medical conditions. Troy, MI area female  Arabic doctor Nishath Hakim builds strong therapeutic relationships with her patients through cultural understanding, effective communication, and deep respect for Islamic values and traditions.

Arabic Female Doctor for Muslim Women | Troy, MI Area

Finding healthcare that truly understands and respects your cultural and religious values while providing exceptional medical care should not be a challenge that Muslim women have to face in their pursuit of optimal health and wellbeing. The unique healthcare needs of Muslim women require providers who combine medical expertise with genuine cultural competency and Islamic understanding to create healthcare experiences that honor your values while addressing your health concerns comprehensively.

At Prosperity Health in the Troy, MI area, female doctor Nishath Hakim offers the cultural sensitivity, religious understanding, and medical excellence that Muslim women deserve, creating a healthcare environment where you can feel comfortable, respected, and confident in the care you receive. Don’t compromise your values or delay necessary healthcare due to concerns about cultural sensitivity – schedule an appointment today with an Arabic, female doctor who understands your unique needs and is committed to providing exceptional healthcare that honors your faith, respects your culture, and supports your journey toward optimal health and wellness.

Troy, MI Area Arabic Female Doctor:  248-997-4242

perimenopause doctor detroit area

What Perimenopause Is and How to Navigate It

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Perimenopause Comes With New Challenges – Functional Medicine Can Help

If you are a woman in your late thirties or forties, you may have started to notice puzzling changes in various aspects of your life – from sleep, to energy, to mental clarity, sexual enjoyment, and more. It’s easy to just dismiss or ignore these conditions as the normal signs of getting older. But with the help of a functional medicine doctor who takes a “whole person” approach, you do NOT have to live with these frustrating side effects of perimenopause.

Perimenopause remains one of the most misunderstood and under-discussed phases of women’s health, despite affecting virtually every woman who lives long enough to experience this natural transition. The complexity of perimenopause stems from its highly individualized presentation, unpredictable timeline, and wide-ranging effects on physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being that can profoundly impact a woman’s quality of life. during perimenopause many women find themselves struggling with symptoms they don’t understand, receiving inadequate information from healthcare providers who may lack specialized knowledge about this transition, and feeling isolated in their experience of changes that can be both subtle and overwhelming.

The medical community’s understanding of perimenopause has advanced significantly in recent years, with research revealing the intricate hormonal changes and their far-reaching effects on women’s health during this transitional period. However, this knowledge has not yet filtered down to all healthcare providers, leaving many women without access to comprehensive, knowledgeable care during this crucial time. The importance of working with healthcare providers who specialize in perimenopause cannot be overstated, as this expertise can mean the difference between suffering through symptoms and thriving during this life transition.

Dr. Nishath Hakim, MD at Prosperity Health in the Detroit area specializes in helping women understand and successfully manage perimenopause through a comprehensive functional medicine approach. She addresses the underlying causes of perimenopause symptoms while supporting overall health and well-being during this transition. In this article she addresses the key aspects of perimenopause that every woman should understand.

What Perimenopause Is According to Perimenopause Doctors

Perimenopause represents the transitional phase when a woman’s reproductive system begins the gradual process of shutting down, characterized by fluctuating hormone levels that create a wide array of physical and emotional changes before menstruation ceases completely. This biological transition involves complex changes in ovarian function, with declining estrogen and progesterone production occurring in an irregular, unpredictable pattern rather than a steady decline. The term perimenopause literally means “around menopause,” reflecting the fact that this transition surrounds the final cessation of menstrual periods and can extend for several years before and after the last menstrual cycle.

During perimenopause, the ovaries produce decreasing amounts of sex hormones while the brain attempts to maintain reproductive function through increased production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). This hormonal tug-of-war creates the characteristic fluctuations in hormone levels that lead to irregular periods and the various symptoms associated with perimenopause. The unpredictable nature of these hormonal changes explains why symptoms can vary dramatically from month to month and why some women experience severe symptoms while others have relatively mild transitions.

Perimenopause doctor Nishath Hakim, MD at Prosperity Health in the Detroit area understands that this transition affects far more than just reproductive function, as estrogen and progesterone receptors are found throughout the body, including the brain, cardiovascular system, bones, skin, and other tissues. This widespread hormonal influence explains why perimenopause can affect virtually every aspect of a woman’s health and well-being, from sleep and mood to cognitive function and metabolic health.

When Perimenopause Starts According to Perimenopause Doctors

The timing of perimenopause onset varies considerably among women, with most beginning to experience symptoms sometime during their 40s, though some women may notice changes as early as their late 30s while others may not experience significant symptoms until their early 50s. The average age for perimenopause to begin is approximately 47 years, but individual variation is substantial and influenced by genetic factors, lifestyle choices, medical history, and environmental exposures. Perimenopause doctors emphasize that there is no “normal” age for this transition to begin, as each woman’s experience is unique and determined by multiple individual factors.

Several factors can influence when perimenopause begins, including family history of early or late menopause, smoking status, body weight, stress levels, and previous pregnancies or breastfeeding experiences. Women who smoke typically enter perimenopause earlier than non-smokers, while those with higher body weight may experience later onset. Chronic stress, certain autoimmune conditions, and previous chemotherapy or radiation treatments can also affect the timing of perimenopause onset, making it important for perimenopause doctors to consider these factors when evaluating patients.

Early recognition of perimenopause can be challenging because initial symptoms may be subtle and easily attributed to other causes such as stress, aging, or lifestyle changes. Many women don’t realize they are entering perimenopause until symptoms become more pronounced or menstrual irregularities become obvious. Perimenopause doctor Nishath Hakim, MD at Prosperity Health in the Detroit area emphasizes the importance of paying attention to subtle changes in energy levels, sleep patterns, mood stability, and menstrual cycles that may signal the beginning of this transition, even when these changes seem minor or intermittent initially.

How Long Perimenopause Lasts

The duration of perimenopause varies dramatically between women, with most experiencing this transition for approximately four to six years, though some women may have symptoms for as little as one year while others may experience perimenopausal changes for eight to ten years or even longer. The length of perimenopause appears to be influenced by similar factors that affect its onset, including genetics, lifestyle, health status, and environmental factors. Perimenopause doctors note that predicting the exact duration for any individual woman is challenging because the transition doesn’t follow a standard timeline or pattern.

The perimenopause transition typically progresses through distinct phases, beginning with subtle hormonal fluctuations that may not cause noticeable symptoms, progressing to more obvious changes including menstrual irregularities and classic symptoms like hot flashes, and eventually culminating in the cessation of menstruation. The final phase, when periods become very irregular or stop completely, tends to be when symptoms are most severe for many women. Understanding these phases helps perimenopause doctors develop appropriate treatment strategies for each stage of the transition.

Perimenopause officially ends when a woman has gone twelve consecutive months without a menstrual period, at which point she is considered to be in menopause. However, some symptoms may continue into the early post-menopausal years as the body adjusts to permanently low hormone levels. Perimenopause doctors emphasize that while the duration cannot be precisely predicted, effective treatment strategies can significantly improve quality of life throughout the entire transition period, regardless of how long it lasts. Dr. Nishath Hakim, MD at Prosperity Health in the Detroit area helps women understand that the focus should be on managing symptoms and optimizing health rather than simply waiting for perimenopause to end.

The Most Common Symptoms of Perimenopause

The most frequently reported symptoms of perimenopause include menstrual irregularities, vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats, sleep disturbances, mood fluctuations, and changes in energy levels that can significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life. Menstrual changes often represent the first noticeable sign of perimenopause, with periods becoming shorter or longer, heavier or lighter, or occurring more or less frequently than previously established patterns. These changes reflect the hormonal fluctuations that characterize this transition and can be particularly concerning for women who have previously had regular cycles.

Hot flashes and night sweats affect approximately 75-80% of women during perimenopause and can range from mild warmth to intense heat episodes that disrupt sleep and daily activities. These vasomotor symptoms result from hormonal changes affecting the body’s temperature regulation mechanisms in the hypothalamus and can occur at any time of day or night. Sleep disturbances during perimenopause extend beyond those caused by night sweats to include difficulty falling asleep, frequent awakening, and non-restorative sleep that can contribute to fatigue and other symptoms.

Mood changes during perimenopause can include increased irritability, anxiety, depression, or emotional volatility that may be uncharacteristic for the individual woman. These psychological symptoms occur due to hormonal fluctuations affecting neurotransmitter function in the brain and can be particularly challenging because they may impact personal relationships and work performance. Perimenopause doctors Dr. Nishath Hakim, MD at Prosperity Health in the Detroit area understands that these mood changes are physiologically based rather than simply psychological reactions to aging, making them real medical symptoms that deserve appropriate treatment and support.

Rarer Symptoms of Perimenopause According to Perimenopause Doctors

Less commonly discussed symptoms of perimenopause include cognitive changes such as memory problems and difficulty concentrating, physical symptoms like joint stiffness and muscle aches, changes in skin elasticity and hair texture, and alterations in sensory perception including taste and smell changes. These lesser-known symptoms are often overlooked or attributed to other causes, leaving many women feeling confused or concerned about changes they don’t understand. Cognitive symptoms, frequently referred to as “brain fog,” can include word-finding difficulties, forgetfulness, or decreased mental clarity that can be particularly distressing for professionally active women.

Physical symptoms beyond the classic hot flashes can include increased headaches, dizziness, tingling sensations, changes in body odor, and increased sensitivity to temperature changes that may not be immediately recognized as perimenopause-related. Joint stiffness and muscle aches often develop during perimenopause due to declining estrogen levels that affect joint health and inflammation processes throughout the body. Many women notice increased morning stiffness or general achiness that may be mistaken for arthritis or other conditions.

Sensory changes during perimenopause can include alterations in taste and smell perception, increased sensitivity to light or sound, and changes in tactile sensation that reflect the widespread effects of hormonal changes on nervous system function. Digestive changes may also occur, including bloating, changes in appetite, altered food tolerances, or changes in bowel habits that result from hormonal effects on gastrointestinal function. Perimenopause doctor Nishath Hakim, MD at Prosperity Health in the Detroit area understands how these comprehensive effects can help women identify and address these less obvious symptoms that may significantly impact quality of life during the transition.

How to Know if You’re in Perimenopause

Determining whether you are in perimenopause requires careful evaluation by experienced perimenopause doctors who understand that diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on age, symptoms, and menstrual pattern changes rather than relying solely on hormone testing. The fluctuating nature of hormone levels during perimenopause makes blood tests unreliable for diagnosis, as hormone levels can vary dramatically from day to day and cycle to cycle during this transition. Experienced perimenopause doctors understand that normal hormone levels on a single test do not rule out perimenopause, making clinical assessment more important than laboratory values for accurate diagnosis.

The diagnostic process used by perimenopause doctor Dr. Nishath Hakim, MD at Prosperity Health in the Detroit area involves comprehensive evaluation of symptom patterns, menstrual history, family history, and overall health status to determine whether changes are consistent with perimenopause. Key indicators include changes in menstrual cycle length or flow, onset of vasomotor symptoms, sleep disturbances, mood changes, and other symptoms that commonly occur during this transition. The timing and pattern of these symptoms, combined with the woman’s age and reproductive history, provide more reliable diagnostic information than hormone testing alone.

When hormone testing is performed by Dr. Nishath Hakim, MD at Prosperity Health in the Detroit area, it may include multiple hormones such as estradiol, progesterone, FSH, and LH, often requiring serial measurements over time to identify patterns rather than relying on single values. However, many women in early perimenopause will have normal or only slightly abnormal hormone levels on testing, making symptom assessment and clinical judgment more valuable for diagnosis. Dr. Nishath Hakim’s approach to perimenopause diagnosis includes comprehensive clinical evaluation that considers the complete picture of a woman’s health and symptoms rather than relying primarily on laboratory testing, ensuring accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment planning.

How Perimenopause Doctors Treat Symptoms

Comprehensive symptom management by perimenopause doctor Nishath Hakim, MD at Prosperity Health in the Detroit area involves multi-modal approaches that may include bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), targeted nutritional interventions, strategic supplementation, sleep optimization protocols, and stress management techniques customized to address each woman’s specific symptom profile and health needs. BHRT represents one of the most effective treatments for managing perimenopausal symptoms, using hormones that are molecularly identical to those produced by the human body to restore hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms such as hot flashes, mood changes, and sleep disruptions while supporting long-term health.

Nutritional approaches utilized by perimenopause doctor Nishath Hakim, MD focuses on supporting hormonal balance through dietary strategies that emphasize whole foods, adequate protein intake, healthy fats, and specific nutrients that support hormone production and metabolism. Anti-inflammatory foods, phytoestrogens from plant sources, and nutrients that support adrenal function can help manage symptoms while promoting overall health during this transition. Targeted supplementation may include vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other compounds that have been shown to support hormonal balance and reduce perimenopausal symptoms when used appropriately.

Sleep optimization strategies can also address the multiple factors that can disrupt sleep during this transition, including hormonal changes, night sweats, stress, and other symptoms that interfere with restorative rest. This may involve sleep hygiene education, treatment of sleep disorders, environmental modifications, and sometimes targeted therapies to address specific sleep disruptors. Stress management represents another crucial component of perimenopause treatment, as chronic stress can worsen symptoms and interfere with hormonal balance during this already challenging transition. Effective stress reduction techniques can significantly improve symptom severity and overall well-being during perimenopause.

Why Functional Medicine is the Best Approach to Perimenopause Doctors

Functional medicine represents the optimal approach for perimenopause treatment because it employs a “whole person” methodology that identifies and treats the root causes of symptoms rather than simply managing individual complaints in isolation. This comprehensive philosophy recognizes that perimenopausal symptoms arise from complex interactions between hormonal changes, stress, nutrition, sleep, digestive health, and other lifestyle factors that must be addressed holistically to achieve optimal results. Functional medicine perimenopause doctors understand that each woman’s experience is unique and requires personalized treatment approaches that address her specific underlying imbalances and contributing factors.

The whole person approach characteristic of functional medicine involves thorough evaluation of all body systems and their interconnections, recognizing that hormonal changes during perimenopause can affect virtually every aspect of health and well-being. This comprehensive assessment often reveals underlying issues such as adrenal dysfunction, thyroid imbalances, digestive problems, or nutritional deficiencies that may be contributing to perimenopausal symptoms and must be addressed for optimal treatment effectiveness. Traditional medical approaches that focus only on hormone replacement may miss these important contributing factors that can significantly impact treatment success.

Functional medicine’s emphasis on treating root causes rather than simply suppressing symptoms leads to more sustainable and comprehensive improvements in health and well-being during perimenopause. This approach also empowers women to take active roles in their health management through education about lifestyle factors that influence their symptoms and overall health. Dr. Nishath Hakim’s functional medicine approach to perimenopause care exemplifies this comprehensive philosophy, helping women achieve optimal health and symptom relief through personalized treatment plans that address all aspects of their health and well-being during this important transition.

Weight Gain Due to Perimenopause According to Perimenopause Doctors

Weight gain during perimenopause is extremely common and directly related to the hormonal changes that occur during this transition, affecting metabolism, fat distribution, appetite regulation, and insulin sensitivity in ways that make weight management significantly more challenging than in previous decades. Declining estrogen levels during perimenopause lead to changes in how the body stores and burns fat, with many women experiencing increased abdominal weight gain even when their overall weight remains stable. These hormonal changes also affect muscle mass, which naturally declines with age but may accelerate during perimenopause, further slowing metabolism and making weight management more difficult.

The relationship between perimenopause and weight gain involves multiple interconnected factors beyond simple hormonal changes, including alterations in sleep quality, increased stress levels, changes in physical activity, and metabolic adaptations that affect how the body processes food and stores energy. Insulin resistance tends to increase during perimenopause, making it easier to gain weight and harder to lose it, particularly around the midsection where visceral fat accumulation poses additional health risks. Changes in cortisol patterns, thyroid function, and appetite-regulating hormones during perimenopause can also contribute to weight gain and make traditional diet and exercise approaches less effective.

Perimenopause doctor Nishath Hakim, MD at Prosperity Health in the Detroit area understand that weight gain during this transition is not simply a matter of eating too much or exercising too little, but rather reflects real physiological changes that require targeted medical intervention and lifestyle modification. Many women become frustrated and self-critical when their previous weight management strategies no longer work, not realizing that their changing hormones require different approaches to maintain healthy weight. Understanding the hormonal and metabolic basis of perimenopausal weight gain helps women avoid self-blame while seeking appropriate medical support for this challenging aspect of the transition.

How Perimenopause Doctors Treat Weight Gain

Treatment of perimenopausal weight gain by experienced perimenopause doctors may involve a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying hormonal and metabolic changes responsible for weight gain during this transition, rather than simply recommending generic diet and exercise programs that may not be effective for hormonally-driven weight changes. Hormone optimization through bioidentical hormone replacement therapy can help restore metabolic function, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce the tendency toward abdominal fat accumulation that characterizes perimenopausal weight gain. However, successful treatment typically requires addressing multiple factors simultaneously through integrated approaches.

Nutritional strategies for perimenopausal weight management focus on supporting metabolic health through approaches that stabilize blood sugar levels, optimize protein intake to preserve muscle mass, and include foods that support healthy hormone metabolism. Many women benefit from reducing refined carbohydrates and processed foods while increasing fiber, healthy fats, and high-quality proteins that support satiety and metabolic function. Meal timing strategies, including intermittent fasting protocols when appropriate, may also be beneficial for some women, though these approaches should be implemented under medical supervision to ensure they are suitable for individual circumstances.

Exercise recommendations from perimenopause doctor Nishath Hakim, MD at Prosperity Health typically emphasize resistance training to preserve and build muscle mass, which is crucial for maintaining metabolic rate during this transition when muscle mass naturally declines. While cardiovascular exercise remains important for overall health, strength training becomes particularly critical during perimenopause to combat the muscle loss that contributes to metabolic slowdown and weight gain. Stress management and sleep optimization are also essential components of weight management during perimenopause, as chronic stress and poor sleep can significantly interfere with weight loss efforts and metabolic health. Dr. Nishath Hakim’s comprehensive approach to perimenopausal weight management in the Detroit area addresses all these factors to help women achieve and maintain healthy weight throughout this transition and beyond, recognizing that successful weight management during perimenopause requires addressing the underlying hormonal and metabolic changes that make traditional approaches less effective.

Best Perimenopause Doctor | Detroit Area

Understanding perimenopause and how to successfully manage this transition requires comprehensive knowledge of the complex hormonal, physical, and emotional changes that occur during this important phase of women’s health. The individual nature of perimenopause makes it essential to work with experienced healthcare providers who understand the wide range of symptoms and treatment options available for this transition. Effective perimenopause management requires approaches that address the whole person rather than simply treating individual symptoms in isolation, making functional medicine particularly well-suited for this complex health transition.

If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to perimenopause or want to learn more about how to optimize your health during this transition, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Nishath Hakim, at Prosperity Health in the Detroit area – where comprehensive functional medicine approaches and personalized care combine to help women thrive during this important phase of their lives.

Detroit Area Best Perimenopause Doctor: 248-997-4242

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35 Signs & Symptoms of Menopause Doctors Can Treat

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Symptoms of Menopause Doctors Can Treat with Hormone Therapy

Between the ages of 40 and 60, most women encounter a variety of sudden and unfamiliar physical, mental, sexual, or emotional symptoms. While these strange symptoms may remain unexplained, or may be attributed to various illnesses, there’s a good chance that they may signify the onset of menopause or perimenopause (“pre-menopause”).

While menopause typically commences around the age of 51, the onset can vary widely among women, with some experiencing symptoms earlier and others later in life. And because of the wide range of symptoms that effect every woman differently, navigating the complex landscape of menopause can often feel like you’re in uncharted territory. Between the ages of 40 and 60, women may find themselves grappling with sudden and bewildering physical, mental, sexual, or emotional symptoms that seem to emerge out of nowhere. However, what many may not realize is that these symptoms could be the telltale signs of menopause or perimenopause. It’s not uncommon for women to mistake these symptoms for signs of pregnancy, hormonal imbalances, or even mental health disorders.

This is why it’s so important for women to consult with a qualified and specialized menopause doctor, like Dr. Nishath Hakim, MD at Prosperity Health in the Troy, MI area. Dr. Hakim can conduct comprehensive evaluations and diagnostic tests to determine whether your symptoms are due to menopause or the result of other underlying health issues. Then she can put together a customized treatment plan to restore balance to your body, so you can eliminate troublesome symptoms and live life with health and vitality at every age.

In this article, specialized menopause doctor Nishath Hakim, MD at Prosperity Health in the Troy, MI area shares 35 symptoms of menopause.

Early Symptoms of Menopause: Age 40 to 45

Although only one percent of women undergo premature menopause before age 40, experiencing a missed period in your early 40s might prompt you to believe you’re pregnant when it could actually indicate the onset of menopause.

Symptoms of perimenopause during this phase include the following.

  1. Missing three or more periods in a row could be an early sign of menopause.
  2. Periods that become heavier or lighter than usual might signify hormonal changes.
  3. Sleep problems, such as insomnia or difficulty staying asleep, can be linked to hormonal fluctuations.
  4. Unexplained weight gain, especially around the abdomen, can be a symptom of shifting hormone levels.
  5. Hot flashes (sometimes called “hot flushes”) are sudden sensations of heat that can cause sweating and discomfort.
  6. Vaginal dryness and itching may occur due to decreased estrogen levels.

Symptoms of Menopause Age 45 to 50

During this phase of perimenopause or menopause, production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone slows down significantly. These are some of the symptoms.

  1. Mood swings, characterized by abrupt changes in mood and emotional stability.
  2. Night sweats, which are episodes of intense sweating during sleep that can disrupt rest.
  3. Decrease in sex drive, also known as libido, can occur due to hormonal changes.
  4. Trouble concentrating, or “brain fog,” may result from hormonal fluctuations affecting cognitive function.
  5. Hair loss/thinning, particularly on the scalp, may be observed due to changes in hormone levels.
  6. Increased or irregular heart rate may occur as a result of hormonal imbalance.
  7. Urinary infections (UTIs) can become more frequent due to changes in the urinary tract and vaginal flora.
  8. Difficulty getting pregnant may be experienced as fertility declines with age and hormonal changes occur.
  9. Irritability, characterized by feelings of agitation and annoyance, can be a symptom of hormonal fluctuations.
  10. Fatigue, or feelings of tiredness and exhaustion, may be more prevalent due to disrupted sleep patterns and hormonal changes.

The Final Transition: Symptoms of Menopause Age 50 to 60

Typically, by age 50, a woman’s ovaries are no longer releasing eggs or producing much estrogen. In addition to symptoms #1 through #16 above, the following problems also become more common.

  1. Urinary incontinence, characterized by the loss of bladder control, may occur more frequently as pelvic muscles weaken.
  2. Anxiety, manifested as feelings of worry or nervousness, can be exacerbated by hormonal changes during menopause.
  3. Decreased bone density (osteoporosis) may occur due to declining estrogen levels, increasing the risk of fractures and bone-related problems.
  4. Breast pain, also known as mastalgia, can occur due to hormonal fluctuations affecting breast tissue.
  5. Changes in breast tissue, including lumpiness or texture changes, may be observed as estrogen levels decrease.
  6. Sagging or wrinkling skin may become more pronounced due to decreased collagen production and loss of skin elasticity.
  7. Decreased orgasms, or difficulty reaching orgasm, may occur as a result of changes in hormone levels affecting sexual function.

Less Common Symptoms of Menopause

While symptoms #1 through #23 are the most common signs of hormone decline, there are a number of less frequently experienced symptoms of menopause.

  1. Bloating, characterized by feelings of fullness or swelling in the abdomen, may occur due to hormonal fluctuations.
  2. Brittle nails, which may become weak or easily breakable, can be a result of hormonal changes affecting nail health.
  3. Dizzy spells, or episodes of lightheadedness or vertigo, may occur as a result of hormonal fluctuations affecting blood pressure regulation.
  4. Panic disorder, characterized by sudden feelings of intense fear or anxiety, may be triggered or exacerbated by hormonal changes during menopause.
  5. Depression, marked by persistent feelings of sadness or loss of interest, can be linked to hormonal fluctuations and changes in brain chemistry.
  6. Allergies, such as hay fever or skin reactions, may worsen or become more frequent during menopause due to changes in immune function.
  7. Frequent headaches, including tension headaches or migraines, may be more common during menopause due to hormonal fluctuations affecting blood vessels.
  8. Digestive issues, such as indigestion or changes in bowel habits, may occur as a result of hormonal changes affecting the gastrointestinal tract.
  9. Muscle tightness, or muscle stiffness and tension, may occur as a result of hormonal fluctuations affecting muscle function and relaxation.
  10. Joint pain, characterized by discomfort or stiffness in the joints, may be exacerbated by hormonal changes during menopause.
  11. Changes in body odor, such as increased sweating or changes in scent, may occur due to hormonal fluctuations affecting sweat production and composition.
  12. Tingling or pins & needles sensations, known as paresthesia, may occur in the extremities due to changes in nerve function associated with menopause.

How Menopause Doctors Treat Symptoms with Hormone Therapy

Once a diagnosis of menopause has been confirmed, specialized menopause doctors like Dr. Nishath Hakim, MD employ a variety of treatment strategies to alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being. One of the most effective approaches is hormone therapy, which involves supplementing the body with missing hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, to restore hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms.

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) at Prosperity Health in the Troy, MI area replaces the body’s missing hormones, helping to alleviate most of the symptoms above, including hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.

Furthermore, hormone therapy can also help reduce the risk of certain health conditions associated with menopause, such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease, by maintaining bone density and supporting heart health.

Menopause Doctor | Troy, MI, Area

Experienced menopause doctor Nishath Hakim, MD works closely with each patient to develop a personalized hormone therapy regimen tailored to their test results, unique needs, individual symptoms, and medical history. Regular monitoring and adjustments are made as needed to ensure optimal effectiveness and safety. By addressing the root cause of menopausal symptoms and restoring hormonal balance, hormone therapy can significantly improve quality of life and empower women to navigate the challenges of menopause with confidence and vitality.

If you’re experiencing any of these thirty-five symptoms and they’re affecting your quality of life, consulting with menopause doctor Dr. Nishath Hakim, MD at Prosperity Health in the Troy, MI area, can help you with the treatment options, including hormone therapy, that will alleviate your symptoms and improve overall health, well-being, and quality of life.

Troy, MI Area Menopause Doctor: 248-997-4242

 

 

Natural Estrogen Therapy Treats & Prevents Osteoporosis

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Stronger Bones with Natural Estrogen Therapy for Osteoporosis

The decline in estrogen production that results from menopause causes many frustrating side-effects – including hot flashes, mood swings, increased belly fat, insomnia, and more. But perhaps the most dangerous effect of menopausal hormone decline is the loss of calcium that results in the thinning of a woman’s bones or “osteoporosis”.

As women get older, maintaining strong and healthy bones becomes increasingly important. Studies show that fifty percent of women over the age 50 will suffer a bone fracture due to osteoporosis.

And, sadly, because osteoporosis has no visible external symptoms, many women do not even realize that they have lost bone density until they experience a fracture.

The good news is that osteoporosis can be prevented in women as they age, with 100% natural, convenient, and safe bioidentical estrogen replacement treatment.

In this article, functional medicine doctor Nishath Hakim, MD explores how natural estrogen therapy can be a powerful tool in preventing and treating osteoporosis by maintaining bone density and improving overall skeletal health.

Preventing Osteoporosis with Natural Estrogen Therapy:

Estrogen, a hormone primarily associated with reproductive health, plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density. Declining estrogen levels, especially during menopause, contribute to bone loss. Natural estrogen therapy addresses this hormonal decline by replacing the body’s missing estrogen, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

Esteemed medical organizations, including the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, The North American Menopause Society, and The Endocrine Society, have all come out in support the use of estrogen therapy in preventing osteoporosis. Their endorsement is grounded in comprehensive research and clinical evidence that highlights the positive impact of estrogen on bone health.

Clinical Studies on Estrogen Therapy & Osteoporosis:

Numerous clinical studies have investigated the relationship between estrogen therapy and osteoporosis prevention. These studies consistently suggest that estrogen supplementation can slow down bone loss and, in some cases, even stimulate bone formation, providing compelling evidence for its efficacy in managing osteoporosis.

A recent study published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research in 2021 investigated the long-term effects of estrogen therapy on bone density. The researchers found that women who received estrogen therapy for an extended duration demonstrated significantly higher bone mineral density, emphasizing the potential long-term benefits of this intervention.

Another recent clinical review entitled Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy and Quality of Life in Postmenopausal Women was published last year (Maturitas; April 2023). That report found that estrogen replacement using bioidentical hormone replacement therapy significantly improved bone density in postmenopausal women – concluding that BHRT is an effective treatment for osteoporosis prevention.

The Two Types of Estrogen Therapy for Osteoporosis

Estrogen therapy comes in two main forms: synthetic and bioidentical. While both can be used for osteoporosis, bioidentical estrogen is structurally identical to the body’s natural estrogen, making it a more favorable option for many patients due to its greater safety and effectiveness.

Bioidentical estrogen therapy which is derived from plant sources is often considered safer than synthetic (lab created) alternatives. Bioidentical hormones have the same structure as the body’s natural hormone. This result in fewer side effects and a more harmonious integration with the body’s existing hormonal system, enhancing its efficacy in preventing osteoporosis.

The distinction between synthetic and bioidentical estrogen lies in their molecular structure. Synthetic estrogen used in conventional hormone replacement therapies has a structure that is similar but not identical to human estrogen. Bioidentical estrogen, on the other hand, is chemically identical to the estrogen produced by the human body. Studies, including one recently published in the journal Climacteric, indicate that bioidentical hormones offer a safer and more effective option for hormone replacement therapy, potentially leading to fewer adverse effects.

Different Estrogen Therapy Delivery Methods

Various delivery methods exist for estrogen therapy, including pills, patches, creams, and pellets. However, pellets – under-the-skin insertions –  are typically the best estrogen delivery method for their consistent and sustained release of hormones, offering a convenient and effective option for those seeking osteoporosis prevention.

Estrogen pills are less convenient because they must be remembered every day at the same time. Additionally, hormone pills result in fluctuating hormone levels that peak when taken and wear off throughout the day – while pellets release estrogen 24/7 as the body needs it. And hormone patches and creams are also both messy, unsightly, and may cause skin irritation.

Estrogen pellet therapy, small subcutaneous implants, offer a unique advantage. A study published in the Journal Menopause found that pellets provided a consistent and sustained release of hormones, maintaining stable levels over an extended period. This consistency in hormone levels contributes to better symptom control and overall efficacy, making BHRT pellets the superior option for those seeking optimal results from estrogen therapy.

Natural Osteoporosis Prevention | Southfield, MI Area

At Prosperity Health in the Southfield, MI area Dr. Hakim offers natural estrogen pellet therapy as the most convenient and effective treatment for preventing and treating osteoporosis. After thoroughly researching the recommendations of reputable medical organizations and the robust body of clinical evidence, Dr. Hakim has determined that BHRT pellet therapy is the premium treatment for women seeking to maintain strong and resilient bones.

Additionally, bioidentical estrogen therapy pellets treat and prevent osteoporosis by restoring the body’s natural hormone balance – rather than introducing harsh lab-created medications that come with unpleasant and even dangerous side effects.

It’s never too late to ensure that you are NOT one of the 50% of women who will suffer a broken bone due to osteoporosis. If you live in the greater Southfield, MI area, schedule an appointment with Dr. Hakim at Prosperity Health to see if estrogen replacement therapy is the right treatment to help you maintain strong, healthy bones now  … and for the rest of your life!

Osteoporosis Doctor | Southfield, MI Area: 248-997-4242

 

natural anti aging royal oak troy, mi

Anti-Aging Doctor’s Tips to Prevent & Reverse Wrinkles

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Look & Feel Younger with Anti Aging Doctor Nishath Hakim, MD

You’ve probably heard the old adage that “beauty is only skin deep.” But wanting to banish wrinkles in order to look more youthful is much more than a superficial concern! Studies have shown that looking younger can have a positive impact on various aspects of life, including self-confidence, social interactions, and professional opportunities.

That is why anti-aging doctor Nishath Hakim at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak offers patients an array of tools to match the vibrancy they feel on the inside with their outward appearance. In this article, we explore the science behind wrinkles, and Doctor Hakim shares expert’s tips for preventing and reversing the wrinkles and other telltale signs of aging.

Why Bother Fighting Wrinkles?

Studies have shown that individuals perceived as younger tend to be viewed as more attractive, trustworthy, and competent. This can lead to increased self-esteem, enhanced social interactions, and greater success in the workplace.

A 2018 study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that individuals perceived as more attractive reported higher levels of self-esteem. This suggests that looking younger can contribute to a more positive self-image and increased confidence.

Additionally, looking younger can enhance social interactions. A 2019 study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology found that individuals perceived as younger were rated as more approachable and friendly. This can lead to improved social interactions, stronger relationships, and a greater sense of belonging.

And while you can’t put a price tag on looking youthful, in the professional sphere, looking younger can also play a role in career advancement. A 2021 study published in the journal Personnel Review found that individuals perceived as younger were rated as more competent and promotable.

What Causes Wrinkles

The natural aging process – including the decline in hormone production and exposure to sun – results in a reduction in collagen and elastin production, which are the proteins crucial for maintaining skin structure and elasticity. As these components decline, skin loses its firmness, tone, and resilience, and wrinkles form.

Facial expressions, such as smiling or frowning, lead to what are called ‘dynamic wrinkles’. Examples of dynamic wrinkles include furrow between the eyebrows when scowling, or the ‘puppet lines’ next to the mouth when you smile. However, over time, the skin’s ability to bounce back diminishes, resulting in these lines and creases becoming permanently etched into the face as ‘static wrinkles.”

As collagen diminishes, static wrinkles emerge, appearing even at rest. These are often more pronounced and may require targeted interventions for effective reduction.

Anti Aging Doctor’s Tips to Prevent Wrinkles

#1. Use Sunscreen & Avoid Sun Exposure

Sun exposure is a leading cause of premature aging. Regular use of sunscreen shields the skin from harmful UV rays, preventing collagen breakdown and the formation of fine lines. Anti aging doctors universally emphasize the paramount importance of sunscreen in wrinkle prevention.

#2. Moisturize & Hydrate:

Adequate hydration and moisturization are essential for maintaining skin health. Well-hydrated skin is plump and supple, this prevents the development of dynamic lines that can lead to permanent static wrinkles and creases. Sufficient hydration also helps flush skin-damaging toxins and free radicals from the body to protect the skin from harm.

Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day to stay hydrated from the inside. And visit Dr. Hakim’s Fullscript online store for a curated collection of safe, natural, affordable, and effective skin care products that moisturize from the outside in.

#3. BHRT Hormone Balancing to Prevent Wrinkles for Skin Health

Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) isn’t just for addressing internal health concerns. The protein building blocks of healthy skin – including collagen and elastin – rely on balanced hormone levels for synthesis.

More specifically, a decline in estrogen levels directly correlates to decreased production of collagen and elastin. According to clinical study published Dermatology Online Journal (2019), this leads to deeper and more prominent wrinkles.

Dr. Hakim incorporates BHRT into anti aging strategies and treatment plans, recognizing its role in overall health as well as improving skin health.

#4. Nutrition and Supplements to Prevent Skin Health

You are what you eat, as they say! But with busy lifestyles it is often difficult to get a balanced diet rich in the antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that supports overall skin health.

Dr. Hakim at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak can provide personalized nutritional guidance for skin health. And she and can recommend the best supplements to enhance skin vitality, available from her online FullScript store.

#5. Botox & Xeomin Can Actually Prevent Wrinkles!

Contrary to popular belief, Botox and Xeomin aren’t solely for addressing existing wrinkles. When strategically administered, both Botox and Xeomin treatments can prevent the formation of wrinkles! By relaxing facial muscles, Botox and Xeomin stop dynamic wrinkles and ‘expression lines” from occurring – which prevents permanent, static wrinkles from becoming etched in the face.

Dr. Hakim utilizes his expertise to customize treatments that preserve natural facial expressions while proactively preventing lines and wrinkles.

Anti Aging Doctor’s Tips to Reverse Wrinkles

It’s never to late to take these preventative steps. But if wrinkles and lines have already added some years to your appearance, it’s not to late to reverse them!

#1. Botox & Xeomin Erase Wrinkles & Creases

Botox and Xeomin stand as powerful tools in the arsenal against wrinkles. Dr. Hakim skillfully utilizes these neurotoxins to target and relax specific muscles responsible for wrinkles. By temporarily paralyzing these muscles, these treatments smooth out existing lines – especially in the forehead, between the eyes, and on the outside corners of the eyes (aka ‘crows’ feet’).

Dr. Hakim’s skilled and meticulous approach to Botox ensures a natural, youthful look while still preserving facial expressions – so you always look younger but never look ‘frozen’.

#2. Dermal Fillers Reduce Wrinkles & Lines

Dermal fillers are a cornerstone in Dr. Hakim’s anti-aging toolkit, offering a non-surgical solution to restore volume, plump sagging contours, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, lines, and folds. Dr. Hakim specializes in the Juvéderm and Restylane families of dermal fillers, tailoring each patient’s treatments to address their specific, unique concerns.

Both the Juvéderm and Restylane Family of Fillers are made of hyaluronic acid (“HA”) – a sugar molecule that occurs naturally in the body. HA has the capacity to hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. This remarkable water-binding ability contributes to the hydrating and plumping effects of hyaluronic acid when injected into the skin – adding volume and structure to the skin, while reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

And because hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body, it is well-tolerated by most people, and allergic reactions or other side effects are exceedingly rare. HA fillers also provide long-lasting wrinkle reduction results, with some formulas lasting up to 2 years or longer.

#3. PRP Microneedling to Reduce Wrinkles

Cellular Rejuvenation is the newest technology available at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak to help unveiling radiant, wrinkle-free skin.  Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), derived from the patient’s own blood, is rich in growth factors that stimulate collagen and elastin production.

When combined with microneedling, this treatment enhances skin texture, reduces fine lines, and promotes a natural glow. Dr. Hakim’s meticulous approach ensures the rejuvenation of skin at a cellular level, unveiling a refreshed and radiant complexion.

Anti Aging Doctor Nishath Hakim, MD in Royal Oak

Dr. Nishath Hakim at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak offers an array of cutting-edge treatments to both prevent new wrinkles from forming – and reverse wrinkles you already have – to reveal timeless beauty. By addressing the root causes of aging and employing a combination of medical expertise and advanced treatments, Dr. Hakim tailors anti-aging plans to meet the unique needs of each patient.

Dr. Hakim’s commitment to natural health and vitality ensures that every patient not only feels their best – but also looks their most radiant and youthful. Schedule an appointment with anti aging doctor Nishath Hakim, MD at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak and she will help you find the solution for wrinkles and other signs of aging – so you can live with confidence and vigor at every age.

Anti Aging | Royal Oak: 248-997-4242

hormone imbalance oak park

12 Signs You Have a Hormone Imbalance & How BHRT Can Help!

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Weight Gain? Low Sex Drive? No Energy? Natural Hormone Therapy May Help!

Women’s healthcare has indeed made significant strides since the 1800s when female patients were often subjected to dismissive diagnoses like “hysteria” or “the vapors.” Thankfully, recent advancements in medicine, coupled with societal progress, have brought about substantial improvements in how women’s health issues are addressed today.

However, unfortunately, many traditional doctors still continue to dismiss, misdiagnose, and mistreat various health concerns in female patients – particularly in older women. As a result, many women who suffer from low energy, weight gain, joint pain, and more are not properly diagnosed and treated.

But functional medicine doctors – like Dr. Nishath Hakim at Prosperity Health in the Oak Park, MI area – look at each patient as a whole person. This enables them to address the root causes of health concerns – rather than just treat the symptoms. And hormone imbalances are one of the top underlying causes of a wide variety of health issues and physical symptoms.

The good news is that by bringing the body’s hormone levels back into balance, a functional medicine doctor can alleviate a wide array of problems – from weight gain to low libido, and much more. In this article Dr. Nishath Hakim at Prosperity Health in the Oak Park, MI area explores 12 of the most common signs that may indicate you are suffering from a hormone imbalance.  

Top 12 Signs of Hormone Imbalance

Hormones are the body’s chemical messengers, responsible for almost every one of the body’s essential functions, from sex drive to metabolism, and from weight gain to mood regulation, and much more. So, when hormones fall out of balance, it can lead to a wide range of health issues.

  1. Unexplained Weight Gain

Sudden weight gain or difficulty losing weight, especially around the midsection, can be indicative of hormone imbalances, particularly involving estrogen, testosterone, insulin, and thyroid hormones. Rebalancing hormones can both improve metabolism and reverse insulin resistance – assisting patients in losing weight and building muscle in place of fat.

  1. Fatigue and Low Energy

Persistent fatigue and low energy levels are not a “natural” result of aging. Instead, lack of energy may result from disruptions in adrenal hormones like cortisol, thyroid hormones, and others. Many patients at Prosperity Health in the Oak Park, MI area have regained youthful vitality and stamina with bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT).

  1. Mood Swings and Irritability

Hormonal fluctuations can also impact mood regulation. Balancing hormones through hormone replacement therapy can help stabilize emotions.

  1. Insomnia and Sleep Disturbances

Sleep disruptions can be linked to imbalances in estrogen, as well as melatonin, cortisol, and other sleep-regulating hormones. Dr. Hakim at Prosperity Health in the Oak Park, MI area offers a holistic approach that can improve rest by addressing underlying hormonal issues.

  1. Hair Loss

Perhaps no sign of hormone imbalance is more frustrating for a woman than hair loss. Thinning hair can be associated with imbalances in thyroid hormones, sex hormones (estrogen and testosterone), or even stress hormones.

But hair loss is NOT something you have to live with! A holistic evaluation and hormone therapy can help reverse hair loss – along with PRP scalp treatments and supplements available at Dr. Hakim’s online Wellevate Store.

  1. Digestive Issues

Many people do not realize that gastrointestinal problems like bloating, constipation, or diarrhea may be influenced by hormone imbalances. Holistic interventions at Prosperity Health in the Oak Park, MI area focuses on both gut health, including microbiome and intolerance testing, as well as hormonal balance.

  1. Loss of Sex Drive

Decline in sexual desire does not come just from “getting older” but actually results from the decline in sex hormone production, including testosterone and estrogen, that occurs with age. By restoring and optimizing declining hormonal levels patients with hormone therapy, patients can enjoy a satisfying sex life at any age.

  1. Irregular Menstrual Cycles

In women of childbearing age, hormone imbalances can also lead to irregular periods, heavy bleeding, or painful menstruation. Holistic management of menstrual problems may include hormonal optimization.

  1. Brain Fog and Memory Issues

Cognitive symptoms like brain fog and memory problems can result from hormonal imbalances. But recent research has revealed that hormone replacement therapy can help restore cognitive function. In fact, several clinical studies have even shown that restoring hormone balance can help reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s Disease.   

  1. Skin Issues; From Breakouts to Wrinkles

Acne, dry skin, or other skin problems may be influenced by imbalances in sex hormone (estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone). This is why adolescents, pregnant woman, and women going through menopause often experience breakouts – because their hormones are out of balance.

Similarly, menopausal women may start to experience aging skin that is wrinkling and sagging, due to hormone decline.  Hormone therapy to restore missing hormones can help the body produce the proteins it needs to build and repair skin – both reducing breakouts and keeping it hydrated and supple to ward of premature signs of again.

  1. Muscle Weakness and Joint Pain

Muscle weakness and joint pain can have many causes. But if arthritis, injury, and other culprits are ruled out, it may simply be a hormone imbalance that is the root cause of your discomfort.  Hormones are necessary to both fight inflammation and produce the lubrication that joints need to move without friction.

  1. Hot Flashes and Night Sweats

Hot flashes are the quintessential symptom of menopause. Fluctuations in sex hormones, especially estrogen, can lead to hot flashes and night sweats.  

Addressing the Root Cause of Hormone Imbalance with BHRT

Understanding the root cause of these and many other common signs and symptoms requires a comprehensive approach to wellness. And recognizing the signs of hormone imbalance is crucial to overall health and vitality.

Diagnosing hormone imbalance is a pivotal step in Dr. Hakim’s holistic approach to wellness. Instead of merely treating the symptoms presented, she conducts thorough evaluations, which may include comprehensive blood tests to assess your unique, individual hormone levels, deficiencies, or imbalances.

Diagnosing and identifying hormonal imbalances allows her to create a personalized treatment plan that replaces and rebalances specific hormones with customized Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT).

 Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)

Unlike synthetic hormones, bioidentical hormones precisely mimic the structure of hormones naturally produced by the body. This similarity enables them to integrate seamlessly with the body’s existing hormone pathways, effectively restoring balance – more effectively and with fewer side effects.

Bioidentical hormone therapy can play a transformative role in alleviating the symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances, including those mentioned earlier and many, many others. However, the benefits of BHRT also extend beyond symptom relief.

By addressing the root causes of hormone decline, bioidentical hormone therapy can help protect against various diseases and conditions. For women, this includes reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s Disease, and osteoporosis, among others. This holistic approach not only seeks to improve immediate well-being but also aims for long-term health and vitality.

Hormone Therapy (BHRT) | Oak Park, MI Area

At Prosperity Health in the Oak Park, MI area, Dr. Hakim understands that true healing involves addressing the root causes of health issues, and she is committed to helping her patients achieve optimal balance, both in their bodies and in their lives.

Through a personalized approach that encompasses nutrition, lifestyle adjustments, and, when necessary, Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, she can help you achieve hormonal harmony and improved health. If you are suffering from any of the symptoms listed above, schedule an appointment at Prosperity Health in the Oak Park, MI area, and take the first step to getting your quality of life back – so you can enjoy life at any age.

Hormone Therapy (BHRT) | Oak Park, MI Area: 248-997-4242

perimenopause doctor detroit area

How Holistic Doctors Approach Treating Menopause

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Holistic Doctors Offer a Natural, Integrative Approach to Menopause

Ah, menopause – the time in a woman’s life when hot flashes make you feel like you’re sunbathing on the surface of the sun, mood swings leave you feeling like you’re on a never-ending roller coaster, and the dreaded night sweats turn your bed into a kiddie pool.

And let’s not forget the vaginal dryness, urinary incontinence, and decreased libido that can make intimacy feel like an Olympic sport you never wanted to compete in. But fortunately for menopausal women, there are natural, holistic approaches to managing menopause symptoms, that can make this transition not only bearable, but restore your quality of life!

Royal Oak integrative medicine doctor Nishath Hakim, MD offers evidence-based, scientifically proven, natural treatments that can be effective in reducing the symptoms of menopause. She takes a holistic approach treating menopause symptoms by taking into account the whole person, including the woman’s physical, emotional, and spiritual health. And rather than simply treating symptoms, she focuses on addressing the underlying imbalances that contribute to menopause symptoms.

Why Menopause Causes So Many Crazy Symptoms

Perimenopause and menopause are characterized by a gradual decline in the production of the female hormones estrogen and progesterone, which are produced by the ovaries. And since these two female hormones regulate or affect nearly every function of a woman’s body, this decline can lead to a variety of truly crazy physical and emotional symptoms.

Perimenopause typically begins in a woman’s 40s, although it can start earlier or later. During perimenopause, hormone levels can fluctuate widely, causing irregular periods, hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, insomnia, joint pain, brain fog, painful sex, and other frustrating symptoms. The average length of perimenopause is four years, although it can last anywhere from a few months to ten years.

As perimenopause progresses, the ovaries produce less and less estrogen, eventually leading to menopause, which is defined as the absence of menstrual periods for twelve consecutive months. The average age of menopause in the United States is 51, although it can occur anywhere from the late 30s to the early 60s.

The symptoms of menopause can last for several years afterwards, although they typically subside within a few years of a woman’s periods stopping. However, some women may experience symptoms for up to ten years or more. And some conditions caused by hormone decline – like painful intercourse or urinary incontinence – can last the rest of a woman’s life if not addressed and treated.

Natural, Holistic Menopause Treatments

Integrative medicine doctors like Dr. Hakim in Royal Oak take a holistic approach to treating menopause symptoms, which involves addressing the underlying imbalances that contribute to these many side effects. They recognize that menopause is a natural transition and view symptoms as a manifestation of the body’s attempts to adapt to changing hormone levels. Rather than simply treating symptoms, they focus on addressing the root causes of menopause side effects, which can include hormonal imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, stress, and other factors.

One approach that integrative and holistic doctors may use to address painful sex, hot flashes, hair loss, weight gain, sleep problems and other menopause symptoms is lifestyle modifications. This may involve dietary changes, regular exercise, and stress reduction techniques. These lifestyle changes can help to address the underlying imbalances that contribute to menopause symptoms, such as inflammation, insulin resistance, and cortisol dysregulation.

Another approach that integrative and holistic doctors may use is natural supplements. These may include herbal remedies that have been traditionally used to address menopause symptoms, as well as vitamin and mineral supplements to restore essential missing nutrients. Other natural therapies for menopause symptoms may include mindfulness-based therapies – such as meditation, massage, or yoga – which can help to promote relaxation, reduce stress levels, and help quell inflammation in the body.

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy for Menopause

Integrative medicine doctor Nishath Hakim, MD in Royal Oak may also recommend bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) to address the hormonal imbalances that contribute to menopause symptoms. BHRT involves the use of 100% natural, plant-derived hormones that are identical in structure to those produced naturally by the female body.

Traditional synthetic hormones prescribed by conventional doctors are not structurally identical to human hormones – and are typically one-size-fits all, with every patient receiving the same dose. Bioidentical hormones provide a more natural, physiological approach to hormone replacement therapy by exactly mimicking the body’s hormones – making them more effective with fewer side effects than lab created hormones.

Additionally, BHRT involves the use of hormones that are custom formulated for each patient’s unique needs. Rather than a one-size-fits-all pill, BHRT pellets are formulated for each woman based on the hormone deficiencies that Dr. Hakim identifies through thorough testing.

Before prescribing BHRT, Dr. Hakim will conduct a thorough evaluation to assess hormone levels and other bodily functions such as ‘gut health’ and nutrient deficiencies. She may use various testing methods, including saliva, blood, and urine tests, to evaluate hormone levels and identify any imbalances. Based on this evaluation, she may recommend BHRT as one part of a broader treatment plan that also includes the lifestyle modifications, nutritional support, and other natural therapies mentioned in this article.

Natural, Holistic Menopause Doctor | Royal Oak

Royal Oak integrative medicine doctor Nishath Hakim, MD takes a holistic approach to menopause, recognizing that symptoms can be caused by a variety of imbalances and can be exacerbated by other factors, such as stress, poor nutrition, lack of exercise, and even environmental toxins.

She will take a comprehensive, personalized approach to treating your menopause symptoms, which may include the use of BHRT as part of a broader treatment plan that may also include lubricants, supplements, and lifestyle modifications, such as stress reduction and relaxation techniques, dietary changes, weight loss, gut health, and exercise programs.

If you are a woman in the Royal Oak area who is suffering from the up-ending symptoms of menopause – including hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, vaginal dryness, painful sex, brain fog, joint pain, insomnia, or urinary incontinence – Dr. Hakim can help you get your life back. With lifestyle modifications, natural therapies, and medical interventions like BHRT when necessary, menopause doesn’t have to be a nightmare!

Schedule an appointment at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak today to work with Dr. Hakim who can develop a natural, personalized menopause treatment plan just for you – safely and effectively restoring your body to health, wellness, and happiness through menopause and beyond.

Holistic Menopause Doctor | Royal Oak:  248-997-4242

 

Painful Sex? 100% Natural BHRT May Help!

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BHRT & Other Natural Treatments that Can Help Painful Sex

If you are suffering from pain during intercourse, you are not alone. According to a survey conducted by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), approximately 75% of women in the United States report experiencing pain during intercourse at some point in their lives, and around 30% report experiencing it in the past 12 months.

Pain during sex – medically called dyspareunia – has multiple causes. However, it is especially prevalent in women during and after menopause. Sadly, many women are too embarrassed to seek medical treatment for painful sex, and just ‘learn to live with it’ or forgo sexual activity altogether.

The good news is that women’s health integrative medicine doctor Nishath Hakim, MD in Royal Oak can identify the underlying cause of pain during intimacy – and can offer natural treatments that eliminate painful sex and restore sexual pleasure and satisfaction.

Causes of Painful Sex in Women

Painful sex is not a disease itself – but rather a very common symptom of something that is out of balance in a woman’s body. It can be caused by a variety of underlying medical conditions, including the hormone decline of menopause. During menopause, the decline in estrogen levels can cause changes in the vaginal tissues, including thinning and dryness. This can result in decreased lubrication and elasticity, making intercourse uncomfortable or painful.

Other medical conditions that can cause painful sex include vaginal infections, such as yeast or bacterial vaginosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), endometriosis, and vulvodynia. These conditions can cause inflammation, irritation, and even scarring in the genital area, leading to pain during intercourse.

Certain medications, such as antidepressants and hormonal contraceptives, can also cause vaginal dryness and decrease libido, contributing to painful sex. Additionally, psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and a history of sexual abuse can also play a role in painful sex.

Natural Treatments for Painful Sex

Integrative medicine doctors like Dr. Nishath Hakim in Royal Oak take a holistic approach to treating painful sex, which involves addressing the underlying imbalances that contribute to these symptoms.

For example, integrative medicine recognizes that menopause is a natural transition and so the symptoms are viewed as a manifestation of the body’s attempts to adapt to changing hormone levels. Rather than simply treating symptoms, they focus on addressing the root causes of menopause symptoms, which can include hormonal imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, stress, and other factors.

Treatment for painful sex depends on the underlying cause. For menopausal women, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) to increase estrogen levels can improve vaginal lubrication, as well as stimulate renewed production of collagen and elastin for thicker, healthier, more elastic vaginal walls. Natural lubricants and moisturizers can also be prescribed to help reduce discomfort during intercourse.

Lifestyle adjustments such as dietary changes, regular exercise, stress reduction, meditation, yoga, and sleep hygiene can also help to address the hormone imbalances that contribute to menopause symptoms, such as inflammation, insulin resistance, and cortisol dysregulation.

For other medical conditions causing painful sex, treatment may involve antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medication, or physical therapy. Psychotherapy or counseling may be recommended for psychological causes of painful sex.

In addition, integrative medicine doctors may recommend supplements to address nutrient deficiencies that can contribute to hormone imbalance, painful sex, and other menopause symptoms. For example, they may recommend collagen supplements to address thinning skin and tissue, or omega-3 supplements to address inflammation.

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) for Painful Sex

100% natural bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can also be an effective tool in helping reduce or eliminate pain during intercourse.

Integrative medicine doctor Nishath Hakim, MD in Royal Oak may recommend bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) to address hormonal imbalances that contribute to menopause symptoms. BHRT involves the use of hormones that are identical in structure to those produced naturally in the body, in contrast to synthetic hormones that are not structurally identical. BHRT provides a more natural, physiological approach to hormone replacement therapy that is both more effective and has fewer side effects than lab-created hormones.

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) may help reduce or eliminate pain during intercourse by increasing estrogen levels. Estrogen plays a key role in maintaining the health of the vaginal tissues, including the production of vaginal secretions and the maintenance of vaginal tissue. Estrogen is necessary for the production of collagen and elastin – the protein building blocks that give vaginal walls thickness and elasticity. Estrogen therapy can also improve vaginal lubrication in menopausal women, as well as improve sex drive, and increase sexual sensitivity.

Clinical Studies on BHRT Treatment for Painful Sex

As an integrative medicine doctor, Nishath Hakim, MD relies on evidence-based, scientifically proven treatments. And numerous clinical studies have shown that BHRT can be effective in reducing pain during intercourse in menopausal women.

A randomized controlled trial published in the journal Menopause found that women who received BHRT experienced significant improvements in vaginal lubrication, pain with intercourse, and overall sexual satisfaction compared to women who received a placebo.

Another study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that women who received BHRT had significant improvements in vaginal dryness, sexual desire, and sexual function compared to women who did not receive hormone therapy.

Holistic, Natural Treatment for Painful Sex | Royal Oak

If you are a women who is experiencing the discomfort and frustration of painful sex, an integrative medicine doctor like Nishath Hakim, MD in Royal Oak can identify the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. In addition to BHRT, other treatments for painful intercourse may include the use of natural vaginal lubricants or moisturizers, pelvic floor physical therapy, counselling or psychotherapy, natural supplements, and lifestyle adjustments.

Using evidenced-based, natural medical treatments – and a holistic approach that takes into consideration the patient’s body, mind, spirit, and lifestyle – Dr. Hakim can help restore your sexual health and eliminate painful sex, so you can enjoy a satisfying sex life now and for years to come.

Natural Treatments for Painful Sex | Royal Oak:  248-997-4242

 

Stop Osteoporosis Naturally with Hormone Replacement Therapy

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How HRT Naturally Prevents & Reverses Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a debilitating condition that affects millions of women worldwide. It’s a disease that weakens bones and makes them more susceptible to fractures. With age, the risk of developing osteoporosis increases, making it crucial to take steps to prevent it from happening. One of the most effective treatments for osteoporosis is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT).

In this article, the women’s health experts at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak, MI explore why HRT is the best treatment and preventative for osteoporosis, including what women’s health organizations have to say about it.

Osteoporosis: The Silent Killer

Osteoporosis is a serious condition that can lead to serious consequences, including broken bones. Every year, millions of people suffer from broken bones due to osteoporosis. These fractures can be debilitating and even life-threatening, especially in older adults. In fact, the injury and mortality rates from broken bones due to osteoporosis are alarmingly high.

According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation, one in three women and one in five men over the age of 50 will suffer from an osteoporotic fracture. This means that millions of people are at risk of suffering from broken bones due to osteoporosis each year. These fractures can result in severe pain, limited mobility, and even death in some cases. In fact, the mortality rate for hip fractures due to osteoporosis is alarmingly high, with as many as 20% of patients dying within one year of their fracture.

Broken bones due to osteoporosis can also have a profound impact on a person’s quality of life. For example, a broken hip can result in limited mobility, making it difficult to perform daily activities such as walking, bathing, and getting dressed. In addition, the recovery period from a broken bone can be long and difficult, with many patients requiring rehabilitation and physical therapy. Furthermore, the emotional impact of broken bones can be devastating, leading to depression, anxiety, and decreased quality of life. These statistics highlight the need for effective treatments and preventatives for osteoporosis, in order to reduce the injury and mortality rates from broken bones.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Prevents Osteoporosis

Several women’s health organizations have recommended the use of Hormone Replacement Therapy to prevent osteoporosis. The North American Menopause Society (NAMS), for example, has stated that HRT is the best treatment for osteoporosis. NAMS recommends HRT for women who are at high risk of osteoporosis and have a low risk of heart disease and breast cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also endorsed HRT as an effective treatment for osteoporosis.

Hormone Replacement Therapy is a treatment that replaces hormones that are lost during the menopause transition. During this time, women experience a decline in the production of hormones such as estrogen, which is responsible for maintaining strong bones. HRT works by replenishing the hormones that are lost, which helps to reduce the risk of osteoporosis. This is because estrogen plays a critical role in maintaining healthy bones. When there is a decline in estrogen levels, bones become brittle and more susceptible to fractures. HRT helps to prevent this from happening by replenishing the hormones that are lost.

Why HRT is Better Than Medications to Prevent Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis medications can be effective in preventing bone loss, but they also come with many serious risks and side effects. It’s important to be aware of these dangers and side effects in order to make an informed decision about your treatment options.

Some of the most commonly prescribed osteoporosis medications include Boniva, Fosamax, and others. One of the potential dangers of osteoporosis medications is the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. These medications can irritate the esophagus and stomach, leading to symptoms such as heartburn, nausea, and vomiting. In severe cases, these side effects can lead to ulcers, esophageal erosions, and other serious complications.

Another potential danger of osteoporosis medications is the risk of atypical femur fractures. These fractures can occur spontaneously and without a known cause, and they can be difficult to treat. In some cases, they may require surgery, which can be painful and lead to a long recovery period.

In addition to these dangers, osteoporosis medications can also cause other side effects, such as muscle, joint, and back pain. Some people may also experience headaches, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping.

However, 100% natural Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) – now available at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak, MI – is not known to come with any of these side effects.

HRT: The Safe Way to Prevent Osteoporosis

In addition to being an effective treatment for osteoporosis, Hormone Replacement Therapy is also extremely safe. In the past, there were concerns about the safety of HRT, but these have been largely addressed. Recent studies have shown that HRT is safe when taken at the right dose and for the right amount of time. Women who are considering HRT should discuss the risks and benefits with their doctor, and make an informed decision based on their own health and medical history.

It’s important to note that HRT is not recommended for all women. Women who have a history of breast cancer, blood clots, or stroke should not use HRT. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should also avoid HRT. Women who have a family history of breast cancer should also discuss the risks and benefits of HRT with their doctor.

Osteoporosis Prevention with HRT | Royal Oak, MI

100% natural Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) – now available at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak, MI – is the best treatment and preventative for osteoporosis. It’s a safe and effective way to reduce the risk of osteoporosis and has been recommended by several women’s health organizations.

If you have had a DEXA scan showing bone loss, or you are a woman who is at high risk of osteoporosis, schedule an appointment with Dr. Fakih at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak, MI to discuss the benefits of HRT for helping to treat, prevent or even reverse osteoporosis.

HRT is a valuable tool for maintaining strong bones and reducing the risk of osteoporosis that can help women take control of their health, to ensure that they remain strong and healthy for years to come.

HRT Osteoporosis Treatment | Royal Oak: 248.997.4242

hormone therapy royal oak | southfield | troy, mi

Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy Safely Treats Menopause Symptoms

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Menopause Symptoms Hormone Replacement Therapy Can Help –

Menopause is the time in a woman’s life when her childbearing years come to an end. While the average age of menopause in the U.S. is age 51, the uncomfortable symptoms of menopause may actually start years before, as the ovaries begin to produce far fewer of the body’s “sex hormones”, including estrogen. This time period leading up to menopause is called perimenopause.

The sex hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, not only enable reproduction but also regulate almost every aspect of a woman’s body – from metabolism and weight gain to bone density and libido. Thus, the hormonal decline caused by perimenopause and menopause can cause widespread changes and unpleasant side effects in a woman’s body.

The symptoms and side effects of hormone decline due to menopause can include: hot flashes, sleep problems, decreased libido (sex drive), vaginal dryness, pain during intercourse, bladder leaks, weight gain, mood swings, fatigue, weakening bones (osteoporosis), and more.

But the good news is that replacing declining hormones with natural, FDA approved, BioTe hormone replacement therapy pellets can provide long-term relief from the painful and often troublesome symptoms of menopause. All without daily pills, messy gels and creams, unsightly patches, or painful shots!

In this article, the hormone replacement therapy specialists at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak, MI discuss the five most common symptoms of menopause and how hormone replacement therapy can help relieve them.

 #1. Hormone Replacement Therapy Reduces Hot Flashes

No symptom is more universally associated with menopause than hot flashes. Medical experts, including those at the Mayo Clinic and Harvard, almost universally agree that the most effective treatment for hot flashes and severe night sweats associated with menopause is hormone replacement therapy.

Hot flashes, also referred to as hot flushes, are estimated to affect up to 75% of perimenopausal women. Hot flashes are a “vasomotor” reaction, meaning they are caused by a sudden dilation of the blood vessels. This increased blood flow can cause feelings of extreme heat and profuse sweating.

In a clinical trial involving 3,329 participants, hormone replacement therapy (estrogen alone or estrogen plus progestin) reduced women’s hot flashes by an amazing 75%!

 #2. Hormone Replacement Therapy Combats Low Energy & Fatigue

Many women think that loss of energy is a natural part of aging – but this does not have to be the case. Testosterone, although thought of as a male hormone, plays an important role in increasing energy in both men and women. Testosterone helps the body produce proteins that help maintain muscle and energy. But low testosterone levels can cause debilitating fatigue and sometimes weakness.

Fatigue can also be attributable to deficiencies of thyroid hormones. The thyroid gland controls many aspects of metabolism and is therefore essential for maintaining energy levels. So, in addition to balancing a woman’s estrogen levels during menopause, it is also extremely important to run a complete hormone panel when doing her blood tests.

Hormone replacement therapy to restore a woman’s testosterone, estrogen, and thyroid levels can dramatically help renew energy and vitality.

 # 3. Hormone Replacement Therapy Treats Vaginal Dryness & Painful Sex

After menopause, more than 50% of women will experience vaginal symptoms such as dryness, itching, and pain during intercourse. The most common underlying cause of vaginal dryness and painful sex is the drop in estrogen levels due to menopause.

Estrogen is the female “sex hormone” responsible for maintaining the thickness and health of the tissues of the vaginal wall, and for producing moisture for vaginal lubrication. However, as estrogen production declines during menopause, the walls of the vagina become thinner, lose their elasticity, and produce less lubricant. And sex starts to become less satisfyingly and even painful.

Hormone replacement therapy can help a woman’s body naturally rebuild thick, strong, elastic, and moist vaginal tissues, making sex enjoyable again!

 #4. Hormone Replacement Therapy Can Help Reverse Weight Gain

Hormonal drops and imbalances during menopause can also lead to weight gain in many ways, especially around the waist or abdomen.

If estrogen levels are low, metabolism slows down, which increases body fat storage. In addition, low estrogen levels can cause a decrease in the body’s ability to break down fat, which can also lead to fat accumulation, weight gain, and an increase in waist circumference or “belly fat”.

And if the levels of a woman’s androgens (male hormones) increase relative to declining female hormones, it increases here risk of obesity. Compounding the problem can be a drop in levels of the hormone leptin, which tells the brain to feel “full” after eating, which also happens during menopause. This means that women are actually hungrier during menopause, which causes them to consume more calories.

Additionally, estrogen deficiency reduces skeletal muscle mass and causes a reduction in muscle force in women. However, restoring hormonal balance with hormone replacement therapy can help perimenopausal and perimenopausal women reverse weight gain, build muscle, and reverse fat stores around the abdomen.

 # 5. Hormone Replacement Therapy Prevents Osteoporosis

One of the many important functions of estrogen is to stimulate the activity of bone-producing cells. Therefore, as estrogen levels decline during menopause, bones lose density and become prone to fracture. In fact, 50% of women will break a bone in their lifetime due to osteoporosis. For women, the incidence of a broken bone due to osteoporosis is greater than that of heart attack, stroke and breast cancer combined!

However, many women do not even realize that they are suffering from osteoporosis until it is too late, and they have broken a bone.

The first FDA treatment approved to prevent osteoporosis was estrogen replacement therapy. And while there are now many new synthetic medications for osteoporosis, these drugs can come with harsh side effects. However, several recent clinical studies have demonstrated that estrogen replacement therapy is still the best, and most natural, method for preventing osteoporotic bone fractures.

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy prevents osteoporosis naturally by restoring the body’s estrogen levels – rather than introducing lab-created chemicals that come with harsh side effects. Hormone replacement therapy at Prosperity Health in Royal, Oak can help ensure that you are NOT in the 50% of women who will suffer a bone fracture due to osteoporosis.

Hormone Replacement Therapy for Menopause | Royal Oak

In addition to treating hot flashes, fatigue, painful intercourse, vaginal pain and dryness, weight gain, muscle loss, and osteoporosis hormone replacement therapy also helps prevent cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, Alzheimer’s’ disease, and many other serious illnesses associated with aging.

Dr. Nishath Hakim at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak offers BioTe bioidentical hormone replacement pellets for the safest, most consistent, 100% natural, and easiest-to-use form of hormone replacement. There are NO daily pills, messy creams or painful shots – and a single, in-office, time-released pellet insertion provides relief from menopause symptoms and protection from disease for 3 to 4 months!

If you are a woman in the Royal Oak area who is navigating the challenges of perimenopause or menopause symptoms, schedule a hormone replacement therapy consultation at Prosperity Health to see if BioTe HRT is right for you!

Menopause Hormone Replacement Therapy | Royal Oak: 248.997.4242