Bioidentical hormones are identical in molecular structure to the hormones produced naturally in the human body. As we age, our hormone levels can become imbalanced, leading to undesirable symptoms. Replacing these hormones through bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can help alleviate symptoms and promote better health.
Benefits of BHRT include relief of hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, decreased libido, emotional changes, sleep disturbances and more. BHRT may also help optimize energy, cognition, heart health, weight management and an overall improved sense of well-being.
Key hormones typically replaced include estrogen, progesterone, testosterone and DHEA. The goal is to restore optimal hormonal balance unique to each patient based on symptoms, medical history and lab testing.
When administered properly under the care of a trained medical professional, studies show bioidentical hormones are a safe and effective long term treatment option for both men and women.
The first step in BHRT is having hormone levels evaluated through blood, saliva or urine tests. Common lab tests check levels of key hormones like estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA-S, cortisol and more. Thyroid function is also important to assess.
Based on test results and evaluation of symptoms, customized BHRT treatment plans can then be developed to address deficiencies or imbalances. Ongoing monitoring ensures optimal hormone levels are maintained long-term for maximum benefit.
Symptoms indicating potential hormone imbalance include:
Prompt diagnosis and treatment of any deficiencies is recommended to alleviate symptoms and reduce risk of related health issues. Those experiencing symptoms should schedule lab testing and evaluation right away.
There are several delivery methods available for bioidentical hormone therapy. The method chosen depends on the hormone(s) needed, patient symptoms and preferences.
Pills and capsules taken orally are convenient but hormones risk being broken down by stomach acids and enzymes before being fully absorbed. As such, higher doses may be required.
Delivery methods that bypass digestion include:
These methods provide better absorption and more consistent hormone levels. Creams allow for simple dose adjustments. Pellet implants provide steady state delivery over several months per treatment.
Progesterone supplements are often recommended to balance estrogen levels, available as oral capsules or sublingual drops.
The most common delivery method for testosterone is injection, provide steady state levels. Transdermal gels and creams are also options.
For optimal results, the delivery method should suit the hormone type and treatment goals based on lab testing and symptom evaluation.
Declining hormone levels leading up to and during menopause can cause significant issues for women. Restoring balance through BHRT provides relief.
Estrogen is essential for modulating female reproductive health and biological processes throughout the body and brain.
As women enter perimenopause and menopause, estrogen production in the ovaries sharply declines. Lower estrogen levels cause unpleasant symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness and sleep disruptions.
Over the long term, low estrogen also negatively impacts heart health, bone density, skin elasticity, muscle mass, cognition and overall wellbeing. Prompt estrogen replacement helps counteract these effects.
BHRT treatment starts with baseline blood tests checking levels of key estrogens like estradiol. Estrogen can then be supplemented through regulated doses of bioidentical estradiol in pills, transdermal gels/creams or pellet implants until optimal levels are reached. Patients should follow up with their doctor regularly to monitor progress.
Most women also require progesterone therapy for optimal hormone balance before, during and beyond menopause.
Progesterone helps regulate menstrual cycles and fertility in the child-bearing years. It plays many essential biological roles, influencing hundreds of processes in the body.
Like estrogen, progesterone levels start to fluctuate and decline with perimenopause as ovulation becomes less frequent. If not properly balanced with estrogen supplementation, insufficient progesterone can lead to estrogen dominance.
Symptoms include weight gain, fluid retention, anxiety and irritability. There is also an increased risk of hormone-related cancers and other issues over time.
Fortunately, bioidentical micronized progesterone capsules, sublingual drops or creams can safely and effectively restore optimal levels long-term.
Bioidentical hormones are not necessarily safer or more effective than synthetic hormones for menopausal symptoms. However, some women report preferring them because they more closely mimic the body's natural hormones. More research is still needed to fully understand the risks and benefits compared to traditional hormone therapy.
Age-related testosterone decline in men called “andropause" can also lead to troublesome symptoms hampering health and quality of life. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is increasingly used to address hormone deficits in aging males.
Testosterone plays key functions related to physical health, cognition, libido, fertility and more in men. Beginning around age 30, testosterone production slowly declines over time. Some men experience a more rapid or premature decrease in testosterone.
Declining testosterone, or clinically low testosterone (Low T), causes symptoms such as:
Without treatment, symptoms tend to progressively worsen. Long term risks also include heart disease, metabolic disorders and osteoporosis.
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can help restore normal hormone levels in men via supplementing bioidentical testosterone.
Customized treatments are tailored to the unique needs of each patient based on clinical evaluation and lab testing. Options include testosterone injections, gels, patches and pellets.
In most men, TRT offers increased energy, improved libido, better erectile function, enhanced cognition and mood, reduced body fat and increased muscle mass. Lifelong management can help sustain benefits.
The medical providers at Hormone Harmony Clinic specialize in advanced hormone balance treatments to help patients enjoy better health, wellness and quality of life.
Our experienced practitioners offer cutting edge testing, prescription therapies, nutritional guidance and holistic protocols customized for your unique needs. We use only the highest quality bioidentical hormones and nutrient therapies.
Balancing key hormones through expertly-managed bioidentical hormone replacement therapy can effectively minimize unpleasant symptoms related to menopause, andropause and other hormone disorders. BHRT helps promote better overall health when deficiency is promptly diagnosed and properly treated.
Hormone Harmony Clinic provides specialized BHRT programs tailored specifically for you based on advanced testing and evaluation. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and lab work!
