Q: Will I need frequent testing if I use localized hormones?

In my practice, I typically ask to see a patient again three months after I've prescribed localized hormones. That's so we can check in to see whether the therapy is addressing the symptoms as we intended. If it's not, I typically look for other underlying causes or try other treatments; I've found these hormone products to be very effective and generally well tolerated.

Once we've found the right therapy, I typically see women annually to update their general health status and see whether treatments are still accomplishing their goals.

If your practitioner is suggesting something more, I'd suggest that you ask for clarification about the kinds of tests and reasons for them.