I only give bioidentical hormones because I believe a woman should only place into their bodies the exact same hormone that their body produces. I also create a dosage that is individualized for each woman. Everyone is different thus; Individualized Therapy is very important.
The name “Bioidentical hormones” means that an individual will receive a hormonal medication that is exactly the same as the hormones that her own body creates. They are derived from plants and are chemically identical to those the human body produces. Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are among the most commonly replicated and used hormones for the treatment of menopause, decreased libido, hormonal imbalance, and genitourinary syndrome.
It has been discovered through extensive research that bioidentical progesterone is safer for our bodies than a non-bioidentical progestin and that bioidentical transdermal estradiol and testosterone are safer for our bodies than oral estrogen or testosterone.
Bioidentical hormones come in various forms, including:
- Pills
- Patches
- Creams
- Gels
Some bioidentical hormones are made by drug companies. Others, known as compounded bioidentical hormones, are custom-made by a pharmacy, according to a doctor’s orders. This process is known as compounding. Compounding typically involves ingredients being combined to meet an individual’s needs. Any dosage and application can be created by a compounding pharmacy. These products are preservative-free allowing for fewer foreign chemicals to be absorbed into our bodies and less of a chance of skin irritation. Once again, allowing for my goal of therapy: “Individualized Hormone Treatment” because everyone is different.
Your body’s hormones control most of your basic bodily functions. They serve as an internal communication system between cells throughout the body. They coordinate everything from digestion and growth to your appetite, immune function, mood, and libido. Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are involved in the normal functions of EVERY ORGAN IN OUR BODY. So, when your hormones are out of balance, even slightly, it can have a big impact on your health and well-being.
Bioidentical hormones are typically used as people age and hormone levels drop, particularly for women who are in perimenopause or menopause. It’s used to increase the levels of the hormones that have dropped and improve moderate to severe perimenopausal and menopause symptoms, including:
- Hot Flashes
- Joint Pain
- Night Sweats
- Mood Changes
- Memory Loss
- Weight Gain
- Sleep Issues
- Loss of interest in sex
- Pain during Intercourse
- Heavy Menstruation or Irregular Menses
In addition to helping with symptoms, hormone replacement therapy may reduce your risk for diabetes, weight gain, bone loss, muscle loss, cardiovascular disease, tooth loss, bladder urgency, urinary incontinence, dementia, and cataracts. There is some evidence that it can help improve skin thickness, hydration, and elasticity, and even reduce wrinkles.
Most importantly, research of the last few years has proven that bioidentical hormone replacement DOES NOT increase the risk of breast cancer.
Please don’t fear hormonal treatments, the benefits outweigh the harms if used correctly and timely.