The Benefits And Side Effects Of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy

Recently updated on October 25th, 2022 at 12:09 pm

What Is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)?

BHRT is used for treating women and men whose hormone levels have dropped or became unbalanced. It is most regularly used for easing the symptoms of menopause and perimenopause.

It can also be utilized for improving symptoms of cancer or treating conditions such as:

• Thyroid and adrenal disorders.
• Insulin resistance.
• Fibromyalgia.
• Osteoporosis.

Bioidentical hormones are hormones taken from plant estrogens, which are chemically identical to the ones produced by the human body. Progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone are among the ones most commonly simulated and used for treatment. Bioidentical hormones come in several forms, which include:

• Gels
• Pills
• Injections
• Patches
• Creams

Bioidentical Versus Traditional

Bioidentical hormones are not the same from those that are used in HRT (traditional hormone replacement therapy). Bioidentical hormones are chemically exact to those our bodies naturally produce but are made from plant estrogens. Hormones utilized in conventional HRT are produced from the urine of pregnant horses as well as other synthetic hormones. Check out coloradomedicalsolutions.com for the services they provide with regard to BHRT. Most medical experts believe the risks of HRT and BHRT are similar. Compounded bioidentical hormones may be carrying more risk. There is no authenticated evidence so far that BHRT is more efficient than HRT.

Benefits Associated With BHRT

BHRT is generally used when people age, and their hormone levels drop, especially for women who are undergoing menopause or perimenopause. It is utilized for increasing the hormone levels that have fallen and improving moderate to severe symptoms of menopause, including:

• Hot flashes
• Mood fluctuations
• Night sweats
• Memory loss
• Weight gain
• Sleep problems
• Pain during intercourse

Loss of libido

Besides providing relief for symptoms, hormone replacement therapy can also reduce the risk of tooth loss, diabetes, and cataracts. Some evidence suggests that it can also assist with improving skin thickness, elasticity, and hydration, as well as reducing wrinkles. In a particular study, people with cancer who have had BHRT found relief from treatment-related symptoms that include incontinence, migraines, insomnia, and low libido.

Here Are Some Other Benefits Of BHRT For Men And Women

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Risks and side effects of BHRT

While the FDA has approved some of the preparations of progesterone and bioidentical estradiol, no compounded bioidentical hormones have been approved. Some claims exist that bioidentical hormones are more effective and safer than traditional HRT due to them being identical in structure to the ones produced in the body. However, these claims are not substantiated through studies. Research has revealed that hormone replacement therapy overall can might increase the risk of specific diseases and conditions, including:

• Stroke
• Blood clots
• Heart disease
• Breast cancer
• Gallbladder disease

BHRT may also have accompanied side effects, especially in the beginning, once your body is adjusting to the hormones. Regular side effects of BHRT might include:

• Bloating
• Weight gain
• Acne
• Mood swings
• Fatigue
• More facial hair in women

Numerous individuals cannot take BHRT or any other form of hormone replacement. The potential of side effects and risks may be different among women, contingent on their health history. First, discuss the advantages and disadvantages with your doctor before starting with hormone replacement therapy.

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