Hormone Consulting for Women

Helping Women Feel Balanced, Energized,
and Like Themselves Again

Hormone changes can begin in a woman as early as her mid-30’s and continue well into her 70’s. By the late 30’s a woman does not ovulate every month. This leads to hormone imbalance and subsequent anxiety and irritability. By the early 50’s aggravating symptoms such as hot flashes, sweats, mood changes, and sleep disorders disrupt a woman’s well-being and quality of life. She may feel disconnected and struggling.

A hormone evaluation is helpful to identify imbalances causing symptoms which can be treated using hormone therapy. Bioidentical hormones are helpful and can be customized to accommodate individual needs. Bioidentical hormones are not synthetic. Hormone balancing is the key to feeling good again.

Why consider hormone therapy?

ESTROGEN

Supports the heart, vessels, brain, bones, mood, and skin. There is no need for a woman to suffer losses to these vital organs and experience an escalated aging process.

PROGESTERONE

Another essential hormone, supports brain function, reduces anxiety, improves mood, increases bone mass, and supports sleep. It is considered the “happy, relaxing” hormone and is necessary to “balance” estrogen.

TESTOSTERONE

Builds bone, improves brain function, enhances energy, and supports muscles and improves strength. It can also help libido in some women.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Menopause?

Menopause is a time in a woman’s life that marks the end of her reproductive life.  It formally begins one year after the last menstrual period. This usually occurs in the early 50’s but can occur sooner.  Hot flashes, memory loss, fatigue, sleep disturbance, weight gain, mood swings, dryness, reduced sex drive, increased heart disease risk, and bone loss coincide with the rapid loss of estrogen production in the ovaries. About five percent of women do not have noticeable symptoms and experience an easy transition; however, most women have some symptoms that can last years. Over the life of a woman estrogen is a key factor in the vitality of many organs and rapid loss of this important hormone just prior to and during menopause is an issue that needs to be addressed.

Perimenopause is considered that time, usually in the 40’s, when hormonal fluxes cause symptoms such as PMS, night sweats, abdominal weight gain, and irregular periods.  Pregnancy is still possible, so birth control is still needed. Good nutrition (including a quality multiple vitamin and fish-oil supplement), daily exercise, and stress reduction can minimize symptoms. Hormone therapy is an option if symptoms are severe.

Estrogen stabilizes the lining of blood vessels thereby making the vessels less apt to produce plaques that cause blockage.  This is why a woman’s risk for heart disease after menopause begins to parallel that of a man.  Heart disease is the major cause of death for women.  It is important to work with a practitioner who offers screening for heart risk factors…comprehensive cholesterol screening, hs-crp, and homocysteine to name a few.

Bone is a dynamic organ that is in a constant state of building up and breaking down. Peak bone density occurs in the late 20’s and loss occurs after that time. So, if bone density is good at age 30 due to a lifetime of consistent weight-bearing exercise and calcium/vitamin D consumption, a woman is more apt to have good bone density as she ages. Estrogen prevents bone loss so when estrogen levels dive, bone density follows. The best technique we now have for measuring bone density is DEXA imaging of the hip and spine. This technology offers a small amount of radiation in exchange for a lot of information that can be used to advise women about their bone health. Dramatic changes occur in the quality of life of a woman who suffers a hip/spine fracture. We are lucky to have medications that treat bone loss (osteoporosis). Get tested.

A bone density scan is recommended when a woman reaches menopause and earlier than that in some cases. Estrogen is responsible for maintaining bone mass. Progesterone and testosterone actually build bone. Hormone therapy is frequently recommended for women with osteopenia (mild to moderate bone loss) and osteoporosis (advanced bone loss.)

 

Estrogen replacement is an option for women who have low estrogen levels and/or menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, sleep disorder, mood issues, bone loss, hair loss, thinning skin, anxiety, etc. Estrogen also supports the heart and vessels.

The removal of the Black Box Warning on estrogen in 2026 means that the FDA has reviewed the risks associated with HRT products and has found that the treatment is safer than once believed.

JUDITH INGALLS MD SUPPORTS BIOIDENTICAL HORMONES

Bioidentical hormones are derived from a plant source.  A substance called a “sterol” is extracted from a plant, usually soy or yam, and changed in the lab to estradiol, progesterone, and sometimes testosterone.  These hormones are chemically identical to the hormones we produce in our bodies.

Very few studies have been done comparing bioidentical hormones with synthetics, however, one recent study suggests that the bioidentical progesterone (used with estrogen) may be safer for the breast than the synthetic. I prefer bioidentical hormones for a few reasons.  First, I can prescribe the amount I think a client needs to relieve symptoms and keep the dose as low as possible.  In the past this has not been possible with synthetics.  It was a “one size fits all” dosing philosophy.  Another reason I prefer bioidenticals is because they can be measured in blood (or saliva).  When I prescribe bioidenticals hormones I like to occasionally check hormone levels to make sure the person is not taking too much. In the past twenty years of prescribing the bioidenticals I have observed minimal negative side effects. Women (and men) feel better.

Bioidentical hormones are available from compounding pharmacies that make the exact prescription that your doctor recommends; it is a “customized” product just for you.  There are a few bioidentical products available from regular pharmacies. Examples are Vivelle Dot patch, estradiol tablets, and Prometrium (the only bioidentical “progesterone” available).

The controversy around bioidentical hormones made by the compounding pharmacists is that the final “customized” product is not FDA regulated.

Women feel better when using bioidentical hormones and repeat blood levels show improvement as well.

First, read the first question on “what are bioidentical hormones” to familiarize yourself with what they are.  The pellet therapy uses bioidentical hormone, usually estradiol and/or testosterone, prepared in a small tablet the size of a grain of rice. This pellet is then surgically implanted in the fat pad to the rear of your hip.  The procedure is simple and requires a small incision which usually does not require stitching.  As in any surgical procedure side effects can be bleeding, bruising, tenderness, and infection at the incision site.  These side effects are rare when the sterile technique is used.  The hormone is released over time into the blood stream.  Hormone blood testing is done prior to the procedure and at time periods after the procedure.  Pellets usually last 3-6 months.  A person with a fast metabolism will deplete the hormone sooner. Pellet therapy is effective for only a small “select” group of patients.  It is not for everyone.  In fact, only 5% of my hormone patients are using the pellets.  I recommend an initial trial of daily, topical, bioidentical hormone therapy in the form of creams, drops, or lozenges. Daily applications keep levels more consistent.  If daily dosing does not relieve symptoms, I then recommend pellets.   Pellets release hormones such that the level in the blood “peaks” and then “troughs.”  This means that the level starts low, gets high, then tapers down again over time.  Estradiol and testosterone peak (and trough) at different rates.  Testosterone wears off much faster than estrogen.

Patients enjoy the convenience of pellets. Insurance does not cover pellet therapy. Pellets surgically implanted are not easily removed. Testosterone can help energy and sex drive but could also cause hair loss, anxiety, and interrupted sleep. The estrogen in the pellets can improve mood, increase vaginal moisture, improve sleep, and diminish hot flashes.  Too much estrogen causes breast tenderness, weight gain, headaches, and vaginal bleeding.  Bleeding can occur in women who still have a uterus.

No, her practice is cash pay at the time of service however your insurance should cover a portion of your bill. Her office will email you an invoice after each visit for tax purposes and to request remittance. Office visit charges should also be sent to your insurance if you have a high deductible.

Your insurance should cover any labs or x-rays ordered.

New Patient Visit: 1 hour $275

Follow-up Visits: 1/2 hour $185

Dr. Ingalls is a consultant. Most visits with her are via Telehealth. She does have an office where she can see patients in person. Most patients choose Telehealth.

Questions can be sent to Dr. Ingalls through the Charm portal. Expect a 24–48-hour response (usually sooner). You can also call the office. If responses are complex, you will be asked to make an appointment. Questions are best sent through the portal.  Clerical questions can be texted to the office phone number 480-488-0575.

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Why have a hormone consultation?

A woman deserves to enjoy her life and enhance her health in any way that helps her achieve her goals. Life doesn’t end at menopause. In fact, it can be a positive, new beginning. Hormone balancing is a key to a better life.

The first meeting with Dr. Ingalls is a discussion of your issues and a review of questionnaires. Blood work is ordered and reviewed at your follow-up visit. A plan is made for hormone therapy that is specific to your needs.

Dr. Ingalls has many years of experience, is a good listener, and will call on all aspects of her expertise to help you feel better. She is dedicated to the well-being of all women.

womens hormone consulting for better

Patient Testimonials

Dr. Ingalls is a caring, professional, well-educated doctor that I would recommend to anyone for women’s hormones, or a traumatic brain injury.

Anonymous, healthgrades.com

Dr. Ingalls has made a significant difference in my quality of life in the year that I’ve been seeing her. The effects of perimenopause ravaged my health for years. I only wish I had found her sooner.

Kelly, Patient

As a woman & a Sex Therapist, I was introduced to Dr. Judith (Judy) Ingalls years ago by a dear friend of mine. I found my need for her services twofold, personal & professional.

Since I found myself recently experiencing side-effects due to hormonal changes: night sweats, mood swings, fatigue & loss of sexual desire (not an option for a Sex Therapist… lol) Judy’s approach with me was one of warmth, compassion & extensive knowledge on menopause. I knew within the first session & the time she took with me how deeply she cares about women’s healthcare & specifically their hormones. I sensed her passion for her work!!

I have the utmost respect for Judy’s all-inclusive research on hormone imbalance & bio-identical hormone replacement, which she explained, is derived from plants & compounding.
Dr. Ingalls takes an extensive “Women’s hormonal health assessment” of her patients. This requires an extensive bloodwork test of all the hormones. She cheques the estrogen metabolism, androgens, binding proteins along with the progesterone. Once she receives the results, she reads them & interprets them along with providing a handout of information for you.

She then makes recommendations on what options are best for you given your imbalance to create a hormonal BALANCE!! This is the most extensive exam & connection I have experienced with a doctor before!!

As a Sex Therapist, I have referred several of my patients & their partners to Dr. Ingalls. She has been a wonderful resource to them with their menopausal changes, giving ‘her awareness of menopause” to better assist them in rediscovery of sexual desire!!

I would highly recommend Dr. Judith Ingalls, to any woman or couple inquiring about bio-identical hormone replacement.

Michele Clarkson MSW,LCSW, Professonial Sex Therapist

Dr. Ingalls is the best, most caring menopause Doctor anywhere!! Her knowledge of hormones, and overall health will get you in great a shape, when other doctors don’t work… you need to try her!! She is so knowledgeable and really takes the time to listen. She always gets to the root of the problem, and I love her supplement recommendations. They’ve given me more energy, and I feel healthier and stronger. Highly recommend her!!

Anonymous, vitals.com

I have known Dr. Judith Ingalls for several years not only in the capacity as a patient myself but as a respected professional to whom I have sent many of my clients. Her intelligence, curiosity and ability to go beyond conventional medicine and research all perspectives of health has been a healing gift to many.

I have been able to trust her knowledge and integrity as we have collaborated in patient care. The positive changes I have seen in my own health and my clients are testimony to her ability to see health from a body, mind, and spirit approach. Her listening skills, concern and compassion for people and the time she spends with patients is a breath of fresh air. Without hesitation I would recommend her to anyone seeking a health care provider.

Kathleen S. Hosner, Ph. D. , Author: Full Heart/Satisfied Belly

I have been a patient of Dr. Ingalls for ten years and feel we have a relationship that has allowed me to grow in knowledge about my health.

I knew early on that I wanted a more natural path to keeping my hormones balanced. We went to bio-identical hormones and am very pleased with the results. Keeping on top of your hormones requires persistence and diligence, but I feel it is well worth the effort. We have worked together to balance my hormones and keep me healthy.

Dr. Ingalls is up on and open to the various types of medicine. She has recommended several books over the years that have helped me to understand so much about women’s health.
It is a joy to work with Dr. Ingalls, and I wish all women could have a doctor like her.

Julee Nelson, Colorado, Patient

Thanks to Dr. Ingalls, I feel GREAT! For over a year I didn’t feel “right.” I was tired, unfocused, emotional, gained weight and developed adult acne. I was still having my monthly period, so I didn’t consider menopause. Yet my body was clamoring for help. I tried everything: over-the-counter creams, vitamins, teas, acupuncture, chiropractic adjustment, and meditation. Nothing worked. Then a colleague referred me to Dr. Ingalls, a menopause specialist.

Dr. Ingalls worked her holistic medical magic. She put me though a comprehensive examination, then prescribed bio-identical hormones. Most bio-identicals are soy-based and I am allergic to soy. She found a satisfactory replacement with yam –based products. Still today, after nearly two years, I remember the joy of renewed energy as my body shifted into hormonal balance. This doc is a trained expert. She has passion for the medical concerns of menopausal women. She has heart that accelerates healing.

You can trust her with your menopausal body, mind and woman-spirit.

Rebecca Hardcastle, Ph.D. , Professonial in Hypnotherapy and Coaching

Ready to Feel Like Yourself Again?

Schedule a private consultation with Dr. Judith Ingalls and take the first step toward balanced hormone health and renewed vitality.

MEET THE DOCTOR

A Personalized Approach to Hormone Health

Dr. Judith A. Ingalls, MD, is a Certified Menopause Practitioner through the North American Menopause Society with decades of experience in family medicine. Now focused on hormone consulting and functional medicine, she provides a comprehensive, individualized approach to care.

As a consultant—not a primary care physician—Dr. Ingalls works closely with patients to uncover the root causes of symptoms and develop thoughtful, effective treatment strategies.

Her goal is simple: to help you feel balanced, energized, and fully yourself again.

Judith A Ingallls - Health and Hormone Consultant