The Hidden Role Hormones Play in Everyday Health

Hormones act as the body’s internal communication system, directing how organs and tissues respond to daily demands. Even small disruptions can affect how you feel physically and emotionally. Factors such as chronic stress, aging, medical conditions, medications, and lifestyle habits can all influence hormone levels over time, making imbalances more common—and easier to overlook—than many people realize.

Because symptoms often overlap with everyday stress or aging, hormone imbalance is frequently overlooked. That’s why working with an experienced physician like Dr. Leveno, an OBGYN at Medical City Plano, Texas is essential for proper evaluation and personalized care.

Common Signs of Hormonal Imbalance in Women

Hormonal changes can occur at many stages of life—not just during menopause. Women may experience symptoms related to estrogen, progesterone, thyroid hormones, or cortisol imbalances.

Some common signs include:

• Irregular, heavy, or painful periods
• Mood swings, anxiety, or irritability
• Persistent fatigue or low energy
• Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Low libido or changes in sexual health
• Sleep disturbances or insomnia
• Hot flashes or night sweats

These symptoms can impact daily life, work performance, and relationships. Dr. Leveno helps women understand what their symptoms may be signaling and works to identify underlying hormonal patterns rather than simply treating surface-level complaints.

Hormonal Imbalance Isn’t Just a Women’s Issue

While hormone health is often discussed in the context of women’s health, men are equally affected by hormonal shifts—particularly involving testosterone, thyroid hormones, and cortisol.

Men may notice:

• Low energy or persistent fatigue
• Decreased libido or sexual performance changes
• Mood changes, irritability, or low motivation
• Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
• Loss of muscle mass or increased body fat
• Poor sleep quality

These symptoms are often dismissed as stress or aging, but they can be signs of hormone-related concerns. Evaluation with a physician, such as Dr. Leveno, who understands the full picture of hormone health allows for targeted solutions and improved quality of life.

The Importance of Personalized Hormone Evaluation

Hormone health is not one-size-fits-all. Symptoms, lab results, lifestyle, and health history all matter. Dr. Leveno and his team take a comprehensive approach to hormone evaluation, looking beyond isolated numbers to understand how hormones are affecting the body as a whole.

Testing may include hormone panels, medical history review, and discussion of symptoms and lifestyle factors. From there, a personalized plan can be created to help restore balance safely and effectively.

This individualized approach is especially important because hormone imbalance can contribute to long-term health concerns if left unaddressed, including metabolic issues, bone health changes, cardiovascular risk, and reduced overall wellbeing.

Supporting Hormone Balance Through Whole-Body Care

Restoring hormone balance often involves more than a single treatment. Depending on individual needs, care may include medical therapies, lifestyle adjustments, nutritional support, and ongoing monitoring.

Dr. Leveno focuses on helping patients understand their bodies and the role hormones play in their overall health. By addressing hormone concerns proactively, many patients report improvements in energy, mood, sleep, focus, and confidence—benefits that extend far beyond symptom relief.

When to Seek Help

If symptoms such as fatigue, mood changes, low libido, sleep issues, or unexplained weight changes have become part of daily life, it may be time to explore hormone health. Waiting for symptoms to resolve on their own can delay effective treatment and prolong discomfort.

Working with an experienced OBGYN like Dr. Leveno at Medical City Plano ensures hormone concerns are evaluated thoroughly and managed with medical expertise and personalized care.

Take the Next Step Toward Balance

Hormone imbalance doesn’t have to be something you simply live with. With proper evaluation and a tailored plan, it’s possible to feel more like yourself again. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Leveno to evaluate your hormone health and discuss personalized treatment options.

Menopause is not the end of feeling like yourself—it’s the start of a new chapter that deserves support, understanding, and care. Every woman experiences menopause differently, and the physical and emotional changes it brings can affect daily life in ways that aren’t always easy to manage. With personalized guidance, symptoms can be addressed, and quality of life can improve at every stage.

Understanding Menopause: Your Body, Your Journey

Menopause brings both physical and emotional changes, from shifts in hormones to changes in energy, mood, and sleep. Hot flashes and night sweats are common symptoms that can disrupt daily life—but relief is possible with the right approach.

Dr. Joseph Leveno, an experienced OBGYN at Medical City Plano, Texas, provides personalized plans to support wellness, vitality, and long-term health, helping patients feel informed, supported, and empowered throughout menopause.

Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: Finding Relief

Hot flashes—sudden feelings of heat that can leave you sweating—and night sweats are among the most common and disruptive symptoms of menopause. They can affect:

• Sleep quality, leading to fatigue and irritability
• Energy levels throughout the day
• Mood and focus
• Daily routines and overall comfort

Dr. Leveno works with patients to reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms using a personalized approach that may include:

• Hormone therapy tailored to individual needs

• Non-hormonal treatment options for those who prefer alternatives

• Lifestyle adjustments such as keeping a cool sleeping environment, dressing in layers to manage sudden heat, practicing stress reduction techniques

Even small daily changes can make a meaningful difference in comfort and quality of life.

Mood, Focus, and Sleep: Supporting Mental Clarity

Menopause can also bring changes in mood, focus, and sleep patterns. Hormonal fluctuations may lead to irritability, anxiety, brain fog, or difficulty concentrating. Poor sleep due to night sweats or insomnia can further compound these issues.

Dr. Leveno emphasizes a holistic approach to care, helping women address both the physical and mental aspects of menopause. By combining personalized medical treatment with lifestyle strategies such as mindfulness, regular exercise, and sleep hygiene, patients can regain a sense of balance, mental clarity, and emotional well-being.

Energy, Metabolism, and Strength: Maintaining Vitality

Hormonal changes during menopause can lead to shifts in metabolism, energy, and body composition. Common concerns include:

• Fatigue and reduced endurance
• Weight gain or difficulty maintaining a healthy weight
• Loss of muscle mass and decreased strength

Targeted care during this stage can help support overall vitality. Dr. Leveno helps patients create individualized plans that may involve:

• Nutrition guidance designed for midlife health
• Exercise recommendations focused on strength, endurance, and flexibility
• Medical interventions when needed to support energy and metabolism

By combining medical expertise with lifestyle strategies, women can maintain an active lifestyle, support metabolism, and feel empowered during this transition.

Long-Term Health: Protecting Bone, Heart, and Hormonal Balance

Menopause is also a critical time for long-term health. Declining estrogen levels can increase the risk of osteoporosis, heart disease, and other health concerns. Regular monitoring and preventive care are essential for maintaining wellness in midlife and beyond.

Dr. Leveno helps women understand the importance of bone density screenings, heart health assessments, and hormone evaluations. Through personalized care plans, he addresses both immediate menopausal symptoms and long-term health goals, ensuring patients are supported physically and emotionally during this stage of life.

Menopause Isn’t Something to “Push Through”

Too often, women feel pressure to “tough it out” during menopause, dismissing symptoms as an inevitable part of aging. In reality, menopause is a natural transition that deserves attention, guidance, and support. With proper care, symptoms can be managed, quality of life can improve, and women can embrace this new chapter with confidence.

Dr. Leveno combines medical expertise with individualized attention. He takes the time to listen to each patient’s concerns, educate them about available options, and create a plan that fits their unique needs. This personalized care ensures that women feel informed, empowered, and cared for throughout their menopausal journey.

Take the Next Step: Personalized Menopause Care

Support is available for women experiencing hot flashes, mood changes, sleep disturbances, low energy, or concerns about long-term health—menopause doesn’t have to be navigated alone. Personalized care from an experienced OBGYN can help you manage symptoms, protect your wellness, and maintain confidence during this stage of life.

Dr. Joseph Leveno at Medical City Plano works with patients to create individualized plans that address both immediate symptoms and long-term health goals. Schedule your menopause consultation today. By exploring treatment options and tailoring care to your needs, you can approach menopause feeling informed, supported, and empowered.

Every stage of life comes with its own unique priorities, goals, and health needs—and your birth control should evolve along with you. From the teenage years to family planning, postpartum recovery, and perimenopause, the right contraceptive option can support your health, lifestyle, and peace of mind. Making informed choices ensures that your birth control fits your current needs while adapting to the changes life brings.

Personalized Guidance with Dr. Leveno

Navigating these choices can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. Dr. Joseph Leveno, an experienced OBGYN at Medical City Plano, Texas, provides personalized guidance to help patients explore birth control options that align with their age, lifestyle, and reproductive goals. His approach ensures that contraception not only prevents pregnancy but also supports overall health and well-being. With expert advice, you can confidently choose the method that fits your life today—and adapts as your needs change.

Teens and Young Adults: Supporting Growth and Lifestyle

For many young adults, birth control serves multiple purposes beyond pregnancy prevention. Hormonal methods such as the pill, patch, or vaginal ring can help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce heavy bleeding, and even improve acne. Non-hormonal options like copper IUDs provide highly effective contraception without altering hormone levels.

Dr. Leveno works closely with teens and young adults to balance efficacy, convenience, and side effect management. Lifestyle factors—like sports, school schedules, or busy work hours—are all considered when selecting the most suitable method. Open conversations about your goals and concerns ensure that your contraceptive choice supports both your health and your active life.

Family Planning Years: Flexibility and Control

Once you enter the family planning years, your contraceptive needs may shift. Some people want to delay pregnancy while pursuing personal or professional goals, while others may focus on spacing children.

Options like hormonal IUDs, implants, pills, and barrier methods offer flexibility and can be tailored to your long-term plans. Dr. Leveno emphasizes personalized counseling, helping you weigh factors such as effectiveness, ease of use, and potential side effects. For couples considering pregnancy in the future, he provides guidance on when and how to transition off contraception safely.

Birth control during this phase isn’t just about preventing pregnancy—it’s also about maintaining hormonal balance, supporting menstrual health, and aligning with your lifestyle. With the right plan in place, you can approach family planning with confidence and control.

Postpartum: Safety for You and Your Baby

After giving birth, contraceptive decisions take on an added layer of complexity. Breastfeeding, hormonal shifts, and recovery all influence which options are safe and effective.

Dr. Leveno helps new mothers navigate this transition, offering guidance on breastfeeding-compatible methods, including progestin-only pills, implants, and IUDs. He also considers your personal health history, timing of ovulation return, and long-term reproductive goals. With the right plan, postpartum contraception can provide reassurance and help you focus on both your recovery and your growing family.

Perimenopause: Adapting to Changing Hormones

As women approach perimenopause, cycles can become irregular, and hormone levels fluctuate. Birth control remains important not only for pregnancy prevention but also for managing symptoms like heavy bleeding, hot flashes, or mood changes.

Hormonal and non-hormonal options continue to play a role during this stage. Some women benefit from low-dose combination pills, while others find IUDs or barrier methods preferable. Dr. Leveno works with patients to tailor a plan that addresses changing cycles while maintaining contraceptive effectiveness. Personalized guidance ensures that perimenopausal birth control is both safe and supportive of overall wellness.

Why Personalized Guidance Matters

No two individuals are the same, and birth control is not one-size-fits-all. Factors like age, medical history, lifestyle, reproductive goals, and even mental health play a crucial role in determining the best method.

Dr. Leveno’s approach at Medical City Plano emphasizes education and shared decision-making. He takes the time to explain each option, including benefits, risks, and how each method may fit different life stages. This personalized approach empowers patients to make confident choices and adjust plans as their lives evolve.

Take the Next Step

Finding the right birth control can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re a teen exploring your first options, planning your family, adjusting postpartum, or managing perimenopause, a tailored plan makes all the difference.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Leveno at Medical City Plano to explore your options and find a method that aligns with your lifestyle and long-term goals. Your reproductive health deserves attention, personalization, and professional guidance every step of the way.

As we age, our bodies undergo natural hormonal changes that can affect energy, mood, metabolism, and overall well-being. For many, these shifts—whether during menopause, perimenopause, or andropause—can lead to symptoms that impact daily life. Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) offers a personalized approach to hormone support, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.

What Is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) uses hormones that are chemically identical to those your body naturally produces. Unlike traditional hormone therapies, BHRT is tailored to each patient’s hormone levels, lifestyle, and health goals. This personalized approach allows for precise dosing, improving effectiveness while reducing side effects.

Dr. Joseph Leveno, OBGYN at Medical City Plano, Texas works with both women and men to determine if BHRT is right for them, helping restore hormonal balance and support overall quality of life.

BHRT is not a “one-size-fits-all” solution. Every treatment plan begins with a careful evaluation of hormone levels, medical history, and wellness goals to ensure safe, effective care.

How BHRT Differs for Women and Men

Hormonal needs differ between women and men, and BHRT is designed to address these unique requirements.

For Women

Women often turn to BHRT to manage symptoms associated with menopause or perimenopause. These can include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Mood changes or irritability
• Low libido or sexual discomfort
• Fatigue or difficulty sleeping

BHRT focuses on balancing estrogen and progesterone, helping alleviate these common symptoms. By restoring hormonal balance, women often experience improved energy, mood stability, and enhanced quality of life.

Dr. Leveno works closely with each female patient to determine the right hormone combination and delivery method—whether creams, patches, gels, or oral formulations—ensuring treatment aligns with individual needs.

For Men

Men also experience hormonal changes with age, most notably declining testosterone levels. Low testosterone can contribute to:

• Decreased energy and motivation
• Mood swings or irritability
• Reduced muscle mass and strength
• Changes in libido and sexual function

BHRT for men targets testosterone support, helping improve energy, mental clarity, and physical performance. Dr. Leveno customizes therapy based on lab results, lifestyle goals, and overall health, providing men with a safe and effective path to restore vitality.

Personalized Approach: Age, Lifestyle, and Goals

One of the most important aspects of BHRT is its personalized nature. Dosages and formulations are customized based on hormone levels, age, lifestyle, and specific health goals. For example, an active individual looking to maintain muscle mass may require a different approach than someone focused on alleviating mood swings or sleep disturbances.

Dr. Leveno evaluates:

• Current hormone levels measured through lab testing
• Overall health and medical history
• Lifestyle habits including exercise, diet, and stress levels
• Personal wellness goals

This individualized approach helps maximize benefits while reducing the risk of side effects, allowing patients to experience noticeable improvements in energy, mood, and overall well-being.

Benefits of BHRT

Patients who undergo BHRT often experience meaningful improvements across multiple areas of life, helping them feel more balanced, energized, and resilient.

• Enhanced Energy and Vitality: Feeling more alert and active throughout the day
• Mood Stability: Reduced irritability, anxiety, or depressive symptoms
• Improved Sleep: Falling asleep more easily and experiencing deeper rest
• Sexual Health: Improved libido and sexual satisfaction for both men and women
• Physical Wellness: Better muscle mass maintenance, bone health, and metabolic support

By addressing hormonal imbalances, BHRT not only provides relief from daily symptoms but also supports long-term wellness. Patients often report feeling more confident, resilient, and able to embrace aging with vitality and improved quality of life.

Is BHRT Right for You?

BHRT is not appropriate for everyone, and it’s important to undergo a comprehensive evaluation before beginning therapy. Dr. Leveno reviews medical history, conducts lab testing, and discusses personal goals to determine if BHRT is a safe and effective option.

Patients considering therapy should ask questions about:

• Potential benefits and risks
• Appropriate dosing and delivery methods
• Expected timelines for symptom improvement
• Monitoring and follow-up care

With professional guidance, BHRT can become a powerful tool to help both women and men feel their best at every stage of life.

Take the Next Step Toward Hormone Balance

If you’re experiencing symptoms of hormonal imbalance—whether hot flashes, fatigue, low libido, or mood changes—Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy may help. Dr. Leveno, OBGYN at Medical City Plano, Texas, provides expert consultation and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Welcoming a new baby is an exciting and life-changing experience, but for women who have experienced a high-risk pregnancy, the weeks and months after delivery are especially important. Postpartum care goes beyond simply recovering from childbirth—it’s about supporting your body, monitoring for complications, and ensuring emotional well-being as you adjust to life with a newborn.

Dr. Joseph Leveno, OBGYN at Medical City Plano, Texas, emphasizes that postpartum care is not a “one-size-fits-all” process. Women who have had high-risk pregnancies benefit from individualized care plans designed to support their unique recovery needs and overall health.

Why Postpartum Care Matters

Even after delivery, the body continues to undergo significant changes. Hormones fluctuate, blood volume decreases, and organs that supported pregnancy return to their pre-pregnancy state. For women with high-risk pregnancies—such as those complicated by preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, multiple gestations, or other medical conditions—close monitoring is essential.

Regular follow-up with an experienced provider like Dr. Leveno helps ensure that any lingering issues are identified early and managed effectively. This care can prevent complications, support emotional well-being, and lay the foundation for long-term health.

Key Focus Areas in Postpartum Care

Physical Recovery and Healing

The weeks after childbirth are a critical period for healing. Vaginal or cesarean births come with different recovery needs, including monitoring incision sites, managing pain, and preventing infection. Women who have experienced high-risk pregnancies may also need extra attention for conditions like high blood pressure, anemia, or gestational diabetes.

Dr. Leveno works closely with new mothers to create personalized recovery plans. This may include:

• Pain management strategies
• Guidance on gradual physical activity
• Monitoring healing progress for both vaginal and cesarean births
• Referrals to specialists if additional care is needed

Monitoring Vital Health Metrics

Postpartum check-ups are an opportunity to track key health indicators. Blood pressure, heart rate, and hormone levels are often monitored, particularly after conditions like preeclampsia or gestational diabetes. Regular bloodwork may be recommended to ensure that your body is recovering as expected.

Monitoring these metrics allows Dr. Leveno to identify potential complications early and provide interventions before they become more serious.

Emotional Support and Mental Health

Adjusting to life with a newborn can be overwhelming. New mothers may experience stress, anxiety, or postpartum depression (PPD). While these feelings are common, they should never be ignored.

Dr. Leveno encourages open conversations about emotional well-being and can connect patients with counseling, support groups, or other mental health resources. Early recognition and treatment of postpartum mood disorders are critical for both the mother’s and baby’s well-being.

Breastfeeding, Nutrition, and Newborn Guidance

High-risk pregnancies can sometimes affect lactation or nutrition needs for both mother and baby. Dr. Leveno provides guidance on breastfeeding techniques, proper nutrition, and safe medication use while nursing.

He also helps mothers navigate newborn care, from monitoring growth and development to establishing safe sleep routines. This holistic approach ensures that both mother and child have the support they need for a healthy start.

Tips for a Smoother Recovery at Home

In addition to professional care, there are practical steps new mothers can take to support recovery:

• Rest Whenever Possible: Sleep and rest are critical, even if it means accepting help from friends or family.

• Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: Balanced meals support energy levels, healing, and milk production.

• Light Physical Activity: Gentle walks or pelvic floor exercises, as recommended by your provider, can improve circulation and promote healing.

• Track Symptoms: Keep a journal of any pain, mood changes, or unusual symptoms to discuss at follow-up appointments.

• Ask for Help: Emotional and practical support from partners, family, or community resources is essential for managing stress and preventing burnout.

When to Contact Your Provider

Certain symptoms after a high-risk pregnancy require immediate attention:

• Persistent high blood pressure or swelling
• Severe headaches or vision changes  
• Heavy or unusual bleeding
• Signs of infection such as fever, chills, or redness at a surgical site
• Mood changes that interfere with daily life or caring for your baby

Dr. Leveno encourages mothers to reach out promptly if any of these issues arise. Early intervention often prevents complications and provides reassurance during the postpartum period.

Personalized Care Makes a Difference

Recovery after a high-risk pregnancy is a journey that benefits from professional guidance, emotional support, and practical strategies. With individualized care, women can regain strength, manage potential complications, and transition confidently into motherhood.

Dr. Joseph Leveno, OBGYN at Medical City Plano, specializes in postpartum care for women with high-risk pregnancies. From physical recovery to emotional wellness and newborn guidance, his team provides comprehensive, personalized support tailored to each mother’s needs.