Common Questions

For questions about bio-identical hormones, please see Lara's Natural HRT article.

For links, please see below.

Questions about the clinic:

Who will I see?

Sensible-Alternative Hormone clinic has two qualified Naturopaths to choose from.

What is a Naturopathic Doctor?

Lara trained in Canada, where accredited Naturopathic Doctors receive a minimum of 7 years university level training.  They practice as primary health care providers, and have prescribing rights in some jurisdictions.

What happens on the first visit?

The first consultation is one hour.  This includes an in-depth symptom review, a short physical exam (eg. blood pressure), and the ordering of saliva or blood tests.  A treatment plan is then provided.  Recommendations will include dietary modifications, nutritional supplements, homoeopathic remedies and possibly a letter of referral outlining a prescription for bio-identical hormones.

Can I get a phone consult?

We can conduct follow-up consults by phone.

How many visits will I need?

Follow-up visits are 30 minutes. At least one follow-up is recommended. This will occur 4-6 weeks after the first consult. If the prescription is satisfactory, the next recommended visit is 3 months later, at which time the saliva test may be repeated. Complex cases will require more frequent appointments.

Is it covered by my health fund?

Both Lara and Suzie are registered Naturopaths, and you are eligible for a rebate if your plan includes Naturopathy. We will issue you with a receipt and you can get a rebate. Check with your health fund for details.

What if I can't get to Sydney?,

If we have seen you in our Sydney rooms at least one time, we can then follow up by phone.

If you cannot get to Sydney, we can offer a Naturopath consultant service. Your local Naturopath or GP is invited to consult by phone with us about you. She can then pass on treatment to you.

Lara will send you a health questionnaire, and order blood or saliva tests for you. She will then outline treatment options to your practitioner. Bookings are essential. Cost is $150 for the entire process. (Additional to your local Naturopath's fee.) Call us at 9438 3448 now to set up a booking.

Links and References

Other sites relating to bio-identical hormones

John R. Lee, MD

John R. Lee, M.D., is internationally acknowledged as a pioneer and expert in the study and use of the hormone progesterone, and on the subject of hormone replacement therapy for women.  He is the author of several invaluable books, including "What your doctor may not tell you about Breast Cancer".

UPDATE: Sadly, Dr. John R. Lee passed away unexpectedly on Friday October 17th, 2003.  His friends and colleagues will carry on his legacy, and his site remains one of the definitive information sources on bio-identical hormones.

Christiane Northrup, MD

Christiane Northrup, MD, obstetrician/gynaecologist, is a renowned American healthcare practitioner and author.  She has written a number of excellent books, including "The Wisdom of Menopause".

Books

Metabolic Diet

• Eat Right for your Blood Type by Peter D'Adamo, ND
  Dr. D'Adamo based his work on the work of his father James - a Canadian Naturopath!

Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS)

ATMS website

Bowen Therapy

Bowen Therapy website

Bowen Therapy, also known as "Bowen Technique".

Lara trained at ...

Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine