Therapeutic Phlebotomy

Therapeutic Phlebotomy for HRT – $300

Targeting Polycythemia, High Red Blood Cells, and Related Symptoms

What Is Therapeutic Phlebotomy?

Therapeutic phlebotomy is a medical treatment used to remove excess red blood cells from the bloodstream. This procedure is especially vital for men undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT), as elevated testosterone can cause a condition called polycythemia—an increase in red blood cell concentration that thickens the blood and raises the risk of cardiovascular events.

Indications

When Is Therapeutic Phlebotomy Needed?

Therapeutic phlebotomy is indicated for the following:

Polycythemia (primary or secondary)
Testosterone-induced erythrocytosis in men on HRT
Symptoms caused by too many red blood cells
Elevated hematocrit or hemoglobin levels
Headaches, dizziness, or blurred vision from polycythemia symptoms
History of blood clots or thick blood

This procedure is often prescribed by HRT providers to manage polycythemia symptoms and improve treatment safety.

Benefits of Therapeutic Phlebotomy for HRT Patients

Removing excess red blood cells through therapeutic phlebotomy provides multiple health benefits:

Lowers hematocrit to reduce the risk of stroke or blood clots
Relieves polycythemia symptoms like fatigue, headaches, and flushing
Supports cardiovascular health and improves oxygen delivery
Prevents complications related to thickened blood
Maintains safety of ongoing testosterone or HRT therapy

Looking for a trusted provider of therapeutic phlebotomy near me? Our licensed medical team serves clients throughout the Twin Cities metro.

Our Phlebotomy Process at Mobile Metabolic Labs

At Mobile Metabolic Labs, we follow a patient-first, physician-guided process:

Screening & Referral – Patients on HRT must have a referral or lab results indicating elevated red blood cells or polycythemia.
Medical Review – Our team reviews your labs and screens for contraindications.
Phlebotomy Appointment – We draw 1 unit (approx. 500 ml) of blood in a sterile, comfortable environment.
Post-Procedure Monitoring – You’ll be monitored briefly and given post-care instructions.

All services are provided by trained phlebotomists and supervised by licensed medical staff.

Cost of Therapeutic Phlebotomy

We aim to make care accessible and transparent.

Service	Price
Therapeutic Phlebotomy (per session)	$95
Lab Review + Referral (if needed)	$45

HSA/FSA accepted. No insurance billing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is polycythemia and why does HRT cause it?

Polycythemia is a condition in which the body produces too many red blood cells. Men on testosterone replacement therapy may experience increased erythropoiesis, leading to thickened blood and polycythemia symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and high blood pressure.

“Testosterone therapy is associated with increased hematocrit and may result in erythrocytosis.” (Source Link)

How do I know if I need therapeutic phlebotomy?

If you are on HRT and have a hematocrit over 52% or elevated hemoglobin, your provider may diagnose polycythemia. Symptoms like facial redness, fatigue, or chest discomfort can also indicate a need.

“Polycythemia is an under-recognized adverse effect of testosterone therapy that warrants routine monitoring.” (Source Link)

How often should I get therapeutic phlebotomy?

The frequency depends on your hematocrit levels and provider recommendations. Some men need a session every 6–8 weeks; others may only need it a few times per year. We tailor your plan based on labs and symptoms.

Is therapeutic phlebotomy the same as blood donation?

No. While the process is similar, therapeutic phlebotomy is a medical procedure aimed at treating a specific health condition like polycythemia. Blood removed is discarded, not donated, unless approved by a blood bank.

Where can I find therapeutic phlebotomy near me?

Mobile Metabolic Labs proudly offers therapeutic phlebotomy at our Lakeville and St. Paul locations, with easy scheduling and medical oversight for men on HRT managing polycythemia symptoms.

Therapeutic Phlebotomy