Pellet therapy involves a minor office surgery during which pellets that contain bioidentical hormones are surgically implanted under the skin. A numbing shot is used, making the procedure relatively painless. A scalpel is then used to make a small incision, and a trocar (large needle) is used to place the pellets under the skin. These pellets last between 3-5 months, and the procedure needs to be repeated for as long as therapy is desired.

Benefits of pellet therapy: You don't have to remember to take a medication daily; the procedure uses bioidentical hormones; and this method avoids “first pass metabolism,” so it's gentler on the liver and better for lipid profile.

Disadvantages of pellet therapy: It's a surgical procedure, so it comes with the typical risks of bleeding, bruising, and infection. You need to go to the doctor's office every 3-5 months for the procedure to be done 3-4 times per year. If you have side effects, you have to wait until the hormones wear off to get relief.

Winona provides bioidentical hormone therapy via pills, patches, or specially compounded creams. These therapies are highly effective without requiring a surgical procedure. In fact, Winona offers telehealth with an experienced physician and delivers your prescription directly to your home. You never need to go to a doctor's office or pharmacy. The dose can be adjusted at any time depending on your symptoms, and if you have a rare side effect, you can stop taking the medication immediately - no waiting months for the hormone to get absorbed.

The creams and patches avoid first pass metabolism just like the pellets. Winona bioidentical hormone replacement provides excellent, non-invasive symptom relief from the comfort of your home.