Welcome to the February edition of the Lake Oswego Health Center newsletter. This month, we are moving past the surface-level tropes of Valentine’s Day to explore the deep biological architecture of desire, energy, and aging.
Many patients accept a declining libido, brain fog, and “not feeling like themselves” as an inevitable tax on aging.
However, clinical evidence suggests these are often not “natural” progressions, but rather symptoms of endocrine dysregulation. This month, we look at how you can bridge the gap between where you are and how you deserve to feel.
The Endocrine Web: More Than Just “Sex Hormones”
When we discuss “getting your sexy back,” we are really discussing the harmony of the HPG (Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal) and HPA (Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal) axes. These systems work in a tight feedback loop; when one is stressed, the others often compensate, leading to a cascade of symptoms.
1. The Role of Androgens (Testosterone)
While often labeled a “male” hormone, testosterone is the primary driver of libido in both sexes. It modulates the dopamine pathways in the brain that govern desire and “reward.” In men, it is essential for erectile function and muscle mass; in women, it supports bone density and mental clarity. As we age, testosterone levels naturally dip, but lifestyle factors—like chronic stress and poor sleep—can accelerate this decline significantly.
2. The Estrogen-Progesterone Balance
While often labeled a “male” hormone, testosterone is the primary driver of libido in both sexes. It modulates the dopamine pathways in the brain that govern desire and “reward.” In men, it is essential for erectile function and muscle mass; in women, it supports bone density and mental clarity. As we age, testosterone levels naturally dip, but lifestyle factors—like chronic stress and poor sleep—can accelerate this decline significantly.
3. The “Cortisol Steal”
While often labeled a “male” hormone, testosterone is the primary driver of libido in both sexes. It modulates the dopamine pathways in the brain that govern desire and “reward.” In men, it is essential for erectile function and muscle mass; in women, it supports bone density and mental clarity. As we age, testosterone levels naturally dip, but lifestyle factors—like chronic stress and poor sleep—can accelerate this decline significantly.
The Hidden Connection: Hormones and Body Pain
One of the most overlooked aspects of hormonal health is its impact on the musculoskeletal system. If you feel “stiff,” “achy,” or seem to be getting injured more easily, your hormones may be the culprit.
- Joint Lubrication and Estrogen: Estrogen is a natural anti-inflammatory that helps maintain the collagen in your joints and tendons. When estrogen drops, many women experience a sudden onset of joint pain (arthralgia) and a higher risk of ligament injuries, such as ACL tears.
- Muscle Repair and Testosterone: Testosterone is vital for muscle protein synthesis. Low levels don’t just affect your “drive”—they make it harder for your body to repair micro-tears after a workout, leading to chronic soreness and slower recovery from injuries.
- The “Cortisol Steal”: Under chronic stress, the body diverts “building block” hormones to create more Cortisol. This elevated cortisol breaks down muscle tissue and increases systemic inflammation, making old injuries flare up and new ones more likely.
Data Over Guesswork: Why We Test
At LOHC, we don’t believe in “one size fits all” supplementation. To fix a system, you must first map it.
- Comprehensive Screening Panels: These provide a baseline of your total and free hormones, thyroid function, and metabolic health.
- The DUTCH Test (Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones): This is the gold standard for complex cases. Unlike a standard blood draw, which provides a “snapshot” of a single moment, the DUTCH test tracks hormone metabolites. This tells us how your body is processing hormones. For example, are you breaking down estrogen into “protective” pathways or “pro-inflammatory” pathways? Knowing this allows for precision medicine that targets the root cause.
February Specials: The Path to Feeling “Right Again”
To support your journey back to optimal health, we are offering several clinical and aesthetic specials this month:
- Precision Diagnostics: 10% OFF all hormone blood tests and DUTCH testing.
- Targeted Support: 10% OFF all Hormone supplements to help bridge the nutritional gaps identified in your labs.
- The “Chocolate Revitalizing Facial”: Just $99 on February 12th and 13th only. Cocoa is high in flavanols that boost nitric oxide, improving skin blood flow and giving you a healthy “glow.”
- Spa BOGO: All month long, Buy One, Get One 50% OFF any spa treatment. Whether it’s a therapeutic massage to lower cortisol or a skin treatment, you can treat yourself and a loved one.
Aging doesn’t have to mean a loss of vitality. By balancing the underlying chemistry, we can ensure that your “sexy times” and your general sense of self remain vibrant at any age.
Ready to start? Schedule your consultation this month to take advantage of our testing specials.
Join us at Lake Oswego Health Center as we strive to improve your health. Whether you’re seeking relief from fatigue, protection against infections, or a boost to your overall well-being, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
To book an appointment now, call today at: 503-505-9806
