Hormone Optimization in La Jolla, CA

Bioidentical Hormone Therapy

Why Is Hormone Balance Important?

Hormones play a vital role in regulating nearly every function in the body—including metabolism, energy, mood, sexual health, and weight. When hormone levels become too high or too low, the entire system can be thrown off balance. This imbalance can lead to symptoms such as:

  • Fatigue

  • Mood changes or irritability

  • Decreased sex drive

  • Unexplained weight gain or loss

  • Hair changes

  • Fertility concerns

Restoring hormone levels to their optimal range helps reverse these symptoms and supports long-term health and overall well-being.

Types of Hormone Replacement Therapy

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is not one-size-fits-all. Patients have several treatment options depending on their unique health needs. For those who prefer not to take daily pills or schedule frequent injections, pellet therapy is an increasingly popular and effective alternative.

Pellet therapy involves placing a small hormone pellet just beneath the skin—typically in the hip area. The pellet releases a steady, consistent dose of bioidentical hormones throughout the day, helping patients feel balanced without the ups and downs often experienced with other methods. Pellets typically last 3 to 6 months and are used for both men and women.

Do All Women Need Hormone Therapy?

Not every woman will require hormone replacement therapy. Factors such as age, symptoms, and type of hysterectomy all play a role.
For example:

  • Women who retain part of one or both ovaries may still produce enough hormones naturally.

  • Women who undergo hysterectomy after menopause may not require HRT unless other medical needs arise.

Dr. Dominguez evaluates each patient individually to determine whether hormone therapy is truly appropriate and beneficial.

What Is Pellet Therapy?

Pellet therapy uses bioidentical hormones—hormones derived from plants and formulated to match the body’s own natural hormones exactly. Because of their biologically identical structure, they do not create the “roller coaster” effect that can occur with synthetic hormones.

Once placed under the skin, the pellet slowly and consistently releases hormones into the bloodstream over several months. This steady delivery offers:

  • More stable symptom relief

  • Fewer side effects

  • A natural alternative to pills, patches, creams, or injections

Pellet therapy is ideal for patients seeking a simple, low-maintenance solution with predictable, sustained results.

Are There Side Effects?

Bioidentical pellet therapy is generally very well tolerated. Because the hormones are plant-derived and match the body’s own molecular structure, they often produce fewer and milder side effects compared to synthetic hormone treatments. Most side effects—if they occur—are mild and temporary.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Pellet Therapy?

Pellet therapy may be an excellent option for:

  • Women or men who have experienced side effects from synthetic hormones

  • Patients seeking a more natural approach

  • Individuals who prefer a low-maintenance solution

  • Anyone who doesn’t want to manage daily medications or regular injections

  • Those experiencing mood swings, fatigue, low libido, or other hormone-related symptoms

After a comprehensive evaluation and lab testing, Dr. Dominguez will determine whether pellet therapy is the right fit.

Our Partnership with BioTE®

Dr. Ryan Dominguez proudly partners with BioTE®, a leader in bioidentical hormone optimization. BioTE’s evidence-based pellet therapy allows patients to benefit from consistent, natural hormone balance tailored to their unique needs.

Learn more about BioTE here.

Patient testimonials

Don’t just take our word for it

"Dr. Dominguez and his staff are fantastic. I have been a patient of his for years and he always goes above and beyond to make sure that I am treated in the best possible way. He responds quickly to any question or concern that I have and he also makes every visit enjoyable. I highly recommend Dr. Dominguez and his staff!!! Thank you Dr. Dominguez for all that you do!"
5-Star Google ReviewBrian H.
"Dr Dominguez is highly competent, engaged and kind a combination that is rare. He took ownership of my medical issues immediately.I highly recommend his competency. Nurse Barb and Nurse Practitioner Martha also exhibited high levels of competency and kindnesses. I was very impressed with both of them. Dr. Dominguez, Barb and Martha far exceeded my expectations."
5-Star Yelp ReviewNorinne S.
"I wish there were more than 5 stars to rate the awesome quality of care that Dr. Dominguez and his staff provides. My husband and I have been patients of his for over 20 years and not a day goes by that we aren't incredibly grateful to have him as our primary care physician. He takes time to listen and get to know the whole person and as such, he has been able to diagnose symptoms and illnesses that helped us more quickly get the care we needed or get referred to a specialist when required. He cares more than any doctor I've ever met and goes way above and beyond."
5-Star Google ReviewMira S.
"I love this doctor. I had been on hormone therapy previously and my doctor had left and this doctor knew exactly what to do and is taking care of me. the office staff is a little unorganized but they do good work and i am pleased."
5-Star Yelp ReviewRita S.
"Dr. Dominguez - a little old-school bedside manner with a little new school practice and methodology. My favorite MD in decades."
5-Star Google ReviewJoseph S.
"Dr Dominguez is a wonderful doctor and has help to get my high cholesterol under control. He is very personable and attentive during my annual check-ups and quick to respond to any text message question I have. I would highly recommend him to my family and friends."
5-Star Google ReviewDavid C.
"I really can't say enough about the service Dr. Dominguez has provided me over the last 13 years but I will try to summarize: kind, expertly knowledgeable, care deeply about patient care, punctual, a consummate professional! I would recommend his services to anyone."
5-Star Google ReviewRichard S.
"Dr Dominguez has been my primary for years now and I'd say he is nothing short of amazing. Can't say enough great things about him and his practice. From the front desk staff to his PAs, everyone is so friendly and awesome. Dominguez is very knowledgeable and friendly, always happy to help. Can not recommend him and his practice enough. Thanks for everything doc!"
5-Star Yelp ReviewMark C.