Balance Your Hormones, Transform Your Life
Integrative medicine for perimenopause, menopause, and optimal wellness.
Welcome to Bridger Health & Wellness
As an integrative medicine Physician Assistant, we specialize in helping women navigate the complexities of hormone balance during perimenopause and menopause.
We believe in treating the whole person, not just symptoms. Our approach combines traditional medicine with complementary methods, focusing on:
Comprehensive hormone balancing (women's, men's, thyroid, and adrenal)
Lifestyle medicine - nutrition, physical activity, quality sleep
Stress reduction and mental health support
Personalized treatment plans using prescription medicines, compounded formulations, and premium supplements
Multiple hormone delivery methods - whatever works best for you
Your journey to hormonal harmony starts with understanding your unique needs and creating a personalized path to wellness.
Comprehensive Wellness Services
Personalized care tailored to your unique hormonal needs
Women's Hormone Balance
Expert care for perimenopause and menopause, addressing hot flashes, mood changes, sleep issues, and more.
Thyroid Optimization
Comprehensive thyroid testing and treatment to restore energy, metabolism, and overall well-being.
Adrenal Support
Address fatigue and stress-related symptoms with targeted adrenal hormone assessment and treatment.
Men's Hormone Health
Testosterone optimization and comprehensive men's health services for vitality and well-being.
Lifestyle Medicine
Nutrition guidance, exercise planning, sleep optimization, and stress management for holistic wellness.
Personalized Treatment
Develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific symptoms and lifestyle
Choose Your Plan
Comprehensive Consultation
Review of symptoms, medical history, habits, physical exam
Follow-up lab review with a working plan for your goals
90 minutes
175 (labs not included)
Hormone Harmony Plan (3 months)
Includes one phone check-in
One follow-up visit
Follow-up labs
(treatments not included)
Lighten Up Metabolic Plan (3 months)
Includes one phone check-in
One follow-up visit
Follow-up labs
45 minutes
(treatments not included)
Thyroid Strong Plan (3 months)
Includes one phone check-in
One follow-up visit
Follow-up labs
45 minutes
(treatments not included)
Adrenal Calm Plan (3 months)
Includes one phone check-in
One follow-up visit
Follow-up labs
45 minutes
(treatments not included)
Pellet Insertion Procedure
Review of procedure, risks and benefits, aftercare instructions
30 minutes
Females – every 3–4 months (follow-up labs included)
Males – every 4–5 months (follow-up labs included)
Understanding Hormone Health
Click on any topic below to learn more
Hormone Delivery Methods
Finding Your Perfect Fit
Different hormone delivery methods work better for different people. Options include:
Oral Capsules: Convenient daily dosing, easy to adjust
Topical Creams: Steady absorption, bypass digestive system
Lozenges: Rapid absorption through oral mucosa
Patches: Consistent delivery, convenient application
Pellets: Long-lasting, steady hormone levels for 3-6 months
We'll work together to find the method that best suits your lifestyle and provides optimal results.
Testing Techniques
Comprehensive Hormone Assessment
Accurate testing is crucial for effective treatment. We utilize:
Blood Testing: Gold standard for most hormones
Saliva Testing: Excellent for cortisol patterns and free hormone levels
Urine Testing: Comprehensive metabolite analysis
DUTCH Testing: Dried urine test for complete hormone picture
Testing frequency and type are personalized based on your symptoms and treatment goals.
Why Monitor Hormones
The Importance of Regular Monitoring
Hormone levels fluctuate naturally and with treatment. Regular monitoring helps:
Ensure optimal dosing for symptom relief
Prevent under or over-treatment
Track progress and adjust as needed
Identify interactions between different hormones
Maintain safety and effectiveness long-term
Think of it like maintaining your car - regular check-ups keep everything running smoothly!
Diet & Hormone Balance
Nutrition's Role in Hormonal Health
Your diet significantly impacts hormone production and balance:
Supporting Foods: Healthy fats, fiber-rich vegetables, quality proteins
Cruciferous Vegetables: Support healthy estrogen metabolism
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Reduce inflammation and support hormone production
Limiting: Sugar, processed foods, excessive alcohol, and caffeine
We'll create a personalized nutrition plan that supports your hormone therapy.
Hormone Interactions
The Hormone Symphony
Your hormones work together like an orchestra. Key interactions include:
Estrogen & Thyroid: Low thyroid can worsen menopause symptoms
Cortisol & Sex Hormones: Stress hormones can suppress reproductive hormones
Insulin & All Hormones: Blood sugar affects entire endocrine system
Progesterone & GABA: Work together for calm and better sleep
Testosterone & Estrogen: Balance is key for libido and energy
This is why we take a comprehensive approach to hormone balance.
Estrogen & Cancer Facts
Understanding the Real Risks
Let's separate fact from fiction about estrogen and cancer risk:
Bioidentical vs Synthetic: Bioidentical hormones may have different risk profiles
Timing Matters: Starting HRT closer to menopause may be safer
Individual Risk: Family history and genetics play important roles
Balanced Approach: Progesterone with estrogen reduces endometrial cancer risk
Quality of Life: Benefits often outweigh risks for many women
Form of administration: Certain forms of treatment carry lower risk.
We'll discuss your personal risk factors and create a safe, effective treatment plan.
Symptom Assessment
Take this quick assessment to help us understand your symptoms
Research & Resources
Evidence-based information to support your hormone health journey
Hormone Therapy Research
📚 North American Menopause Society - HRT Guidelines
📚 Bioidentical Hormone Therapy: A Review
📚 Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline
Lifestyle & Nutrition
📚 Diet and Menopause: A Systematic Review
📚 Harvard Health - Perimenopause Guide
📚 Exercise and Menopausal Symptoms
Professional Organizations
📚 The North American Menopause Society
📚 Endocrine Society
📚 American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Title Here
Bioidentical hormones are compounds that have the exact same molecular structure as the hormones your body naturally produces. Unlike synthetic hormones, bioidentical hormones are derived from plant sources and are customized to match your body's specific needs. This personalized approach often results in better symptom relief with fewer side effects.
How long does it take to see results from hormone therapy?
Every person responds differently to hormone therapy. Some patients notice improvements in energy and mood within 2-3 weeks, while other symptoms like hot flashes may take 4-6 weeks to improve. Full optimization typically occurs within 3-6 months as we fine-tune your treatment based on your response and follow-up testing.
Is hormone therapy safe?
When properly prescribed and monitored, hormone therapy can be a safe and effective treatment. We carefully evaluate your personal and family medical history, conduct appropriate testing, and monitor your progress regularly. The key is individualized treatment - what's right for one person may not be right for another. We'll discuss all risks and benefits specific to your situation.
What's the difference between compounded and standard hormone therapy?
Compounded hormones are custom-made by specialized pharmacies to meet your specific needs. They can be formulated in exact doses and in various forms (creams, capsules, lozenges, etc.) that may not be commercially available. Standard hormone therapy uses pre-made, FDA-approved medications in set doses. Both have their place, and we'll determine which is best for you.
Do you accept insurance?
We are a cash-based practice, which allows us to spend more time with each patient and provide truly personalized care. We provide detailed receipts that you can submit to your insurance for potential reimbursement. Many patients find that their HSA or FSA accounts can be used for our services. We'll be happy to discuss payment options during your consultation.
How often will I need follow-up appointments?
Initially, we typically see patients every 3-4 months to monitor progress and adjust treatment. Once your hormones are optimized and you're feeling well, visits may be reduced to every 6-12 months. We also offer convenient telehealth appointments for established patients when appropriate.
Can hormone therapy help with weight loss?
Balanced hormones can certainly make weight management easier. When hormones like thyroid, cortisol, insulin, and sex hormones are optimized, your metabolism functions better, energy improves, and cravings often decrease. However, hormone therapy works best when combined with proper nutrition, regular exercise, and other lifestyle modifications. We'll create a comprehensive plan to help you achieve your weight goals.
What age should I start thinking about hormone therapy?
There's no one-size-fits-all answer. Some women begin experiencing perimenopause symptoms in their late 30s or early 40s, while others don't notice changes until their 50s. Men may experience declining testosterone as early as their 30s. The key is to pay attention to your body and seek help when symptoms affect your quality of life. Earlier intervention often leads to better long-term outcomes.
What is bioidentical hormone therapy?
Bioidentical hormones are compounds that have the exact same molecular structure as the hormones your body naturally produces. Unlike synthetic hormones, bioidentical hormones are derived from plant sources and are customized to match your body's specific needs. This personalized approach often results in better symptom relief with fewer side effects.
How long does it take to see results from hormone therapy?
Every person responds differently to hormone therapy. Some patients notice improvements in energy and mood within 2-3 weeks, while other symptoms like hot flashes may take 4-6 weeks to improve. Full optimization typically occurs within 3-6 months as we fine-tune your treatment based on your response and follow-up testing.
Is hormone therapy safe?
When properly prescribed and monitored, hormone therapy can be a safe and effective treatment. We carefully evaluate your personal and family medical history, conduct appropriate testing, and monitor your progress regularly. The key is individualized treatment - what's right for one person may not be right for another. We'll discuss all risks and benefits specific to your situation.
What's the difference between compounded and standard hormone therapy?
Compounded hormones are custom-made by specialized pharmacies to meet your specific needs. They can be formulated in exact doses and in various forms (creams, capsules, lozenges, etc.) that may not be commercially available. Standard hormone therapy uses pre-made, FDA-approved medications in set doses. Both have their place, and we'll determine which is best for you.
Do you accept insurance?
We are a cash-based practice, which allows us to spend more time with each patient and provide truly personalized care. We provide detailed receipts that you can submit to your insurance for potential reimbursement. Many patients find that their HSA or FSA accounts can be used for our services. We'll be happy to discuss payment options during your consultation.
How often will I need follow-up appointments?
Initially, we typically see patients every 3-4 months to monitor progress and adjust treatment. Once your hormones are optimized and you're feeling well, visits may be reduced to every 6-12 months. We also offer convenient telehealth appointments for established patients when appropriate.
Can hormone therapy help with weight loss?
Balanced hormones can certainly make weight management easier. When hormones like thyroid, cortisol, insulin, and sex hormones are optimized, your metabolism functions better, energy improves, and cravings often decrease. However, hormone therapy works best when combined with proper nutrition, regular exercise, and other lifestyle modifications. We'll create a comprehensive plan to help you achieve your weight goals.
What age should I start thinking about hormone therapy?
There's no one-size-fits-all answer. Some women begin experiencing perimenopause symptoms in their late 30s or early 40s, while others don't notice changes until their 50s. Men may experience declining testosterone as early as their 30s. The key is to pay attention to your body and seek help when symptoms affect your quality of life. Earlier intervention often leads to better long-term outcomes.
Get In Touch
Ready to start your journey to hormonal balance?
Business Office
15 Brakas Ln
Garner, NC 27529
Phone: 919-576-0716
Fax: 919-964-3122
Clinic Location
c/o Wellness Compounding
Pharmacy Cary, NC
Phone: 919-694-5357
Fax: 919-694-5404
Schedule Your Consultation
Bridger Health & Wellness, PLLC
Empowering your journey to hormonal harmony and optimal wellness
Copyright 2025. Bridger Health & Wellness. All Rights Reserved.