What hormone optimisation involves
This covers testing and, where clinically indicated, treatment of hormone levels — including thyroid, testosterone and menopausal hormone therapy (HRT) for women — within a supervised programme.
Evidence and what to consider
The evidence is strongest and most established for treating documented deficiencies and for menopausal symptom relief; for menopausal HRT, long-term follow-up of large trials shows it is broadly mortality-neutral, with individualised risk-benefit. Using hormones for general 'optimisation' in people without a deficiency is far less evidence-based and carries real risks. Choose clinics that test thoroughly, treat documented findings rather than chasing 'optimal' numbers, and monitor over time.
