Table of Contents
What is BHRT?
We all know that hormones play an essential role in our bodies and life. They’re crucial to achieve every milestone and impact everything from blood levels, growth, sex drive, metabolism, and even your mood. Since it’s a fundamental part of our lives, it’s without a doubt that the slightest imbalance of hormones can cause drastic impacts. In an effort to help individuals with hormonal imbalances, a Canadian researcher developed bioidentical hormones in the 1930s.
In simple words, bioidentical hormones are artificial hormones that are released into the body as a replacement for natural hormones. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy [BHRT] utilizes processed hormones produced by plants. Designed to mimic natural hormones, today, out of all the hormones available, bioidentical hormones are considered the closest to the real ones in the body. Typically, it’s recommended as premenopause or menopause treatment and helps alleviate their symptoms of hormonal imbalance. Although bioidentical hormones have several notable benefits, there’re also notable risks associated with them, which we’ll discuss further below.
What Medical Conditions are Treated with Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Some of the common conditions that can be treated with bioidentical hormone replacement therapy include:
- Adrenal Disorders [a medical condition where the adrenal gland over or under-produce essential hormones that regulates stress and glucose levels]
- Thyroid Disorders [a medical condition where the thyroid gland is over or underactive]
- Perimenopause [a stage where the body transitions into menopause]
- Menopause [a stage where women produce lesser natural estrogen and progesterone]
- Andropause [a stage where men produce less testosterone]
- Fibromyalgia [a chronic illness accompanied by pain and tenderness]
- Insulin Resistance [a medical condition where enough insulin isn’t produced or when the ability to process the hormone diminishes]
- Weight Loss Resistance
- Osteoporosis [a medical condition where the bone’s density reduces due to a drop in estrogen levels]
- Parkinson’s Disease [a neurogenerative brain disorder that affects the nerves inside the brain]
Who Needs BHRT?
Bioidentical hormone therapy is prescribed to anyone experiencing a hormonal imbalance. Some common symptoms that may indicate a hormonal imbalance include:
- Hot flashes
- Low energy or fatigue
- Mood swings
- Heavy or painful periods
- Low libido
- Poor quality sleep
- Unexplained weight gain
- Skin problems [dry skin]
- Fertility problems
- Headaches
- Weak bones
- Vaginal dryness
How are Bioidentical Hormones Given?
Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are the most common bioidentical hormones. It comes in different forms:
- Pills
- Patches
- Creams
- Gels
- Shots
- Implanted pellets
What are the Side Effects of Bioidentical Hormones?
As with most hormone therapies, there’s a transition phase where the body adjusts and adapts. During the first few weeks, it’s common to experience the following symptoms:
- Weight gain
- Fatigue
- Bloating
- Increased facial hair
- Spotting
- Cramps
- Acne
- Headaches
- Breast tenderness
- Blurred vision
- Mood swings
What are the Risks of Bioidentical Hormones?
Although several healthcare providers claim bioidentical hormones are safer than traditional hormonal therapy, numerous studies have traced links to serious health conditions and hormone therapy. Bioidentical hormone therapy is found to increase the risk to:
- Blood clots
- Stroke
- Gallbladder disease
- Heart disease
- Breast cancer
Who Shouldn’t Take Bioidentical Hormones?
Usually, bioidentical hormones are not advised to those who have had or are at a high risk of:
- Blood clot disorders
- Cardiovascular or heart disease
- Breast cancer
- Stroke
Q1. How are bioidentical hormones different from synthetic hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are designed to match the hormones found within the human body. In contrast, synthetic hormones are chemically different from natural hormones.
Q2. How do I know if bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is right for me?
If you experience symptoms of hormonal imbalance, then bioidentical hormone replacement therapy may be right for you. However, it’s crucial to discuss the symptoms with your healthcare provider to choose the right treatment for you.
Q3. How long does bioidentical hormone replacement therapy take to work?
The duration varies for each patient. However, it usually takes about three months to experience the full effect.
Q4. Can any lifestyle changes support bioidentical hormone replacement therapy?
Yes! Lifestyle changes like following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep can support the treatment.
Get Help with Dr. Mozhgan
If you’re looking for BHRT treatment in Dubai, then visit Dr. Mozghan Sayyad. With over 25 years of invaluable experience and expertise, she is one of the best gynecologists in the UAE.
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