Hormone therapy is a treatment that aims to balance hormones in the body, particularly during the transition into menopause, a time when many women begin to experience negative symptoms related to a decrease in estrogen and testosterone production. These symptoms vary from person to person but can include exhaustion, stress, difficulty concentrating, weight gain, sleep disturbances, mood swings, hot flashes, low sex drive, and more. Dr. Skattum counsels each patient individually on the risk and benefits of hormones, follows labs to trend therapeutic levels, and ensures mammograms stay up to date. Also, Britt Haus provides hormone services in Sioux Falls to patients struggling with hormonal imbalances and their adverse side effects. There are many different treatment methods for hormone replacement therapy. These methods include pills, patches, creams, troches, and pellets. The best treatment option depends on an individual's unique health needs and concerns. Dr. Skattum provides hormone services in Sioux Falls, and she works closely with patients to customize their hormone treatment to best meet their personal healthcare needs and goals.

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is a hormone therapy method that delivers hormones subcutaneously via pellets that replicate the molecular structure of hormones naturally produced in the body. These small, rice-sized pellets are inserted under the skin, allowing them to slowly be absorbed into the bloodstream and relieve unpleasant symptoms of hormonal imbalances.

When you come in for hormone replacement therapy (HRT) with Dr. Skattum, she will work with you to find the treatment method that's right for you. Below are some of the pros and cons of different delivery methods: Pills: Oral estrogen medication is the most common form of HRT and has been studied the longest. The cons include a slightly increased risk of stroke and blood clots, as well as complications for those with liver damage and undiagnosed breast cancer or abnormal bleeding. Skin patches: Wearing a patch is more convenient for some than taking a daily pill. A patch also bypasses the liver and sends medication straight into the bloodstream, making it safer for patients with other health issues. Cons include the potential for a slightly increased risk of stroke and blood clots, similar to oral estrogen. Creams and gels: Similar to patches, creams and gels bypass the liver and are absorbed directly into the bloodstream. Cons include similar risks associated with pills and patches. Also, creams and gels have not been studied extensively, so some risks are still unknown. Creams and gels are considered compounded hormone products; however, they are not FDA-regulated and can vary significantly in dosing concentration, which may lead to potentially dangerous side effects. Pellets: Pellets contain bioidentical hormones that are synthesized from wild yams into the same molecular structure recognized in the body. Pellets are sourced from FDA-regulated labs to ensure quality and consistency in every dose. These pellets are inserted underneath the skin, allowing them to deliver consistent, low dosages of the hormones needed without having to take a pill or apply a patch or cream. Cons include a slightly more delayed onset, taking one to six months for full optimization. Repeat dosing is individualized to each patient's needs, averaging between three to four months between insertions.

If you are experiencing a hormonal imbalance, Dr. Skattum's hormone services in Sioux Falls can help in a number of ways. Proper hormone therapy can result in a reduction of uncomfortable symptoms, including mood imbalances, sleep difficulties, hot flashes, anxiety, weight gain, and more. Hormone therapy can also promote and preserve bone density, improve sexual functioning, and protect against disease.

Male partner hormone consultation is designed to empower individuals and couples with knowledge about the importance of hormonal balance in men. By understanding the signs, assessment process, and potential treatments, you can take proactive steps towards optimizing your partner's health and well-being. Common symptoms of low testosterone include reduced sex drive, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, depression, decreased muscle mass, and difficulty concentrating. Treatment for low testosterone, also known as hypogonadism, is typically recommended for individuals who are experiencing symptoms and have a confirmed diagnosis through blood tests. We consider the individual's overall health, medical history, and the potential benefits and risks of testosterone replacement therapy. The goal is to restore testosterone levels to a healthier range and alleviate symptoms of low testosterone. These benefits may include: 1. Improved Sexual Function: Increasing testosterone levels can lead to enhanced libido, improved erectile function, and increased sexual satisfaction. 2. Increased Muscle Mass: Testosterone plays a vital role in promoting muscle growth and maintaining muscle mass, which can lead to improved strength and physical performance. 3. Enhanced Mood: Adequate testosterone levels are associated with better mood and decreased risk of depression. Treating low testosterone can contribute to improved emotional well-being and reduced feelings of irritability and fatigue. 4. Boosted Energy Levels: Addressing low testosterone levels may lead to increased energy and vitality, helping individuals feel more active and engaged throughout the day. 5. Improved Bone Density: Testosterone is essential for maintaining bone health, and its treatment can help prevent the loss of bone density and reduce the risk of fractures and osteoporosis. 6. Cognitive Benefits: Some studies suggest that optimal testosterone levels are linked to improved cognitive function, including memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities. 7. Cardiovascular Health: Maintaining healthy testosterone levels may contribute to better cardiovascular health by improving factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and insulin sensitivity. 8. Body Composition: Treating low testosterone can lead to a decrease in body fat and an increase in lean body mass, supporting healthier body composition. It's important to note that the benefits of testosterone treatment can vary from person to person, and the decision to pursue treatment should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare provider. During consultation, potential risks and side effects of treatment will be reviewed based on individual risk factors and history. Partner Hormone Consultation (45 min): $239

Direct primary care, or DPC, is a new model of healthcare created to address the growing concerns and pain points associated with traditional healthcare models. Expensive insurance premiums, rushed, impersonal visits with your doctor, and surprise medical bills are all obstacles to receiving the healthcare you need and you deserve. With our direct primary care model, we guarantee price transparency and quality care for one fixed, affordable monthly fee. Smaller practice sizes allow you to form a meaningful, long-term relationship with your doctor, allowing them to learn about you and your unique healthcare needs.

We do not take insurance at Britt Haus. Instead, we rely on our membership model and transparent pricing guarantee. By operating outside of the traditional insurance model, we are no longer beholden to your insurance provider to approve or deny treatments or to determine the cost for your care. For you, this means more control over your healthcare and no more surprise bills, high deductibles, or pricey co-pays.

We do recommend that our patients obtain insurance coverage for medical needs outside the scope of our office including hospitalizations and surgeries. A high-deductible, low-premium plan works well in conjunction with our membership model to keep your healthcare costs low while still protecting you in case of an emergency.

Patients who are fortunate to have a higher quality insurance plan can still benefit from direct primary care. Even “good” insurance plans do not offer price transparency around healthcare services, and patients often have to meet a significant deductible before they receive coverage for care. Our DPC model keeps our practice size small and personal. We are available when you need us. We offer same-day or next-day appointments. When you come into the office, we make it a priority to spend enough time with you and get to the core of your concerns. Say goodbye to endless time spent in the waiting room followed by rushed, impersonal visits.

By prioritizing preventative and routine care, our goal is to keep you healthy and out of urgent care clinics and hospitals. However, life happens, if you need emergency care, Dr. Skattum will be available to collaborate with your healthcare team and advocate for your needs based on her detailed knowledge of your medical history.

Dr. Skattum serves women at all stages of life, outside of pregnancy. She has a special passion and interest in caring for women who are ready to prioritize their health following childbearing. Whether starting a new journey towards wellness or optimizing current health, Dr. Skattum looks forward to learning your story and collaborating with you for a brighter, healthier future.