I would like a specific listing of tests needed to provide me with a
good assesment needed in order to use bioidentical hormone
replacement.  I am very interested in bioidentical hrt and have some
knowledge about the subject.  I just want a list of specific test I
need to ask for when I see my doctor.  I want to have some knowledge
of these test so that I know if I am getting a complete work-up.

---

Request for Question Clarification by pinkfreud-ga on 18 Apr 2004 14:29 PDT

What are the symptoms for which you seek treatment?

---

Clarification of Question by tnchick-ga on 18 Apr 2004 19:30 PDT

I had a complete hysterectomy in 1999 and am currently on Primarin.  I
would like to try bioidentical HRT instead of syntheic HRT.  I have
gained wieght since my surgery, have NO energy or sex drive, and just
generally feel lousy. A little over a year ago, I went to a holistic
type doctor and he wanted to do a list of blood test on me (totaling
$825).  However, I am a military dependent and my insurance wouldn't
cover the tests from this type doctor.  After that I basically dropped
the issue. I have recently listened to the Suzanne Sommers tape about
bioidentical hormone replacement and thought it might help.

You shouldn't have been asked what your symptoms were. I understand
what you mean re: blood tests for hormone levels. You could have 100
symptoms or none, but at a particular age, and especially after a
hysterectomy and taking Hormone Replacement Therapy, you SHOULD have
blood tests that tell which hormones you are low in. Not everyone
needs the same dosages of the same hormones. Thankfully, the medical
field is begining to realize that different woman need different
levels of hormones. Bioidentical hormones are MUCH better for you than
the mass produced synthetics like Premarin.

You should ask your doctor for a blood test to check your baseline
hormone levels, especially estradiol, progesterone, and
follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).

For additional info. check out Suzanne Somers book The Sexy Years. She
goes into quite a bit of detail re: Bioidentical Hormones.

gina51-ga, thanks for the comment and advice.  I have read the Suzanne
Somers book The Sexy Years, but felt that I needed a list of specific
test to ask my doctor to have done.  I'll take the tests you suggested
and go to talk to my doctor.  Thanks again.