Medication & Pharmacy

Hormone therapies

Hormone therapy helps manage symptoms and correct hormonal imbalances. Treatment is personalized and can include options for menopause, gender-affirming care or hormone deficiencies.

Hormone therapy is a medically supervised treatment used to manage symptoms, correct hormonal imbalances and support long-term health. At TidalHealth, hormone therapy may be used for menopausal symptom management, gender-affirming hormone care or to replace essential hormones when the body is not producing enough, such as thyroid or adrenal hormones.

Before starting therapy, our team takes time to understand your symptoms, medical history and overall health. This usually includes a focused discussion, physical exam and lab testing to assess hormone levels and general health.

Your treatment is personalized based on your goals, age, risk factors and other medical conditions. Certain therapies depend on whether specific organs, such as the uterus, are present, helping guide the safest and most effective options.

Types of Hormone Therapies
• Oral pills
• Transdermal patches or gels
• Topical creams
• Injections
• Long-acting implants

Each option works differently in the body. Your clinician will recommend an approach that fits your lifestyle and health needs.

When you begin hormone therapy, your plan will outline the medication, dose, expected timeline for benefits, monitoring schedule and possible side effects. Some people notice improvement within weeks to months, though full effects may take longer depending on the therapy and reason for treatment.

Follow-up visits and routine lab tests are important to ensure safety and effectiveness. Adjustments can be made as your needs change.

Like all medical treatments, hormone therapy has benefits and risks. Common side effects may include fluid retention, mood changes, changes in libido or mild injection-site soreness. More serious risks depend on the hormones used and your individual health profile. Our team will review these details with you and answer all questions.

If concerns arise at any point, TidalHealth is here to support you. We are committed to ongoing communication, personalized adjustments and care that respects your goals and comfort.

What is hormone therapy and who might need it?
Hormone therapy helps manage symptoms or correct hormone imbalances. People may need hormone therapy for menopausal symptoms, gender-affirming care or hormone deficiencies. Your TidalHealth team will help determine if it is right for you.

How long does it take to see results?
The timeline varies based on the therapy and reason for treatment. Some symptoms, such as menopausal hot flashes, may improve within days or weeks. Other changes, including those related to gender-affirming care, may take months. Your clinician will review expectations with you.

What are the common ways to receive hormone therapy?
Hormones may be taken in several forms, including:
• Pills
• Patches
• Gels
• Creams
• Injections
• Implants

Your healthcare practitioner will help you choose the option that is safest and most convenient.

What side effects and risks should I expect?
Side effects depend on the hormone and dose and may include mood changes, fluid retention, acne or injection-site irritation. Some therapies carry risks such as blood clots, stroke or certain cancers. Your provider will discuss risks and benefits in detail.

Will hormone therapy affect fertility?
Some hormone treatments can affect fertility temporarily or permanently. If future pregnancy is a goal, talk with your TidalHealth clinician before starting therapy.

How is safety monitored?
Your care includes regular follow-ups and lab tests to monitor hormone levels and overall health. Imaging or cancer screening may be recommended based on age and risk factors.

Can hormone therapy cause cancer?
Cancer risks vary depending on the hormone type, dose and personal health history. Your provider will help you understand these risks and choose the safest option.

How do I stop or change hormone therapy?
Do not stop therapy without speaking to your provider. Some treatments require gradual adjustments. Your care team will guide any changes.

What if I have other medical conditions?
Conditions such as a history of blood clots, high blood pressure or certain cancers may affect which therapies are safe. Sharing your full medical history helps ensure appropriate care.

How much does hormone therapy cost, and is it covered by insurance?
Costs vary by medication and insurance plan. Many hormone therapies are partly covered. Your healthcare team can help review benefits and discuss cost options.