The failure of the body to produce hormones naturally in adequate amounts can lead to multiple health complications. Hormones are responsible for coordinating all the functions of the body, making them work sequentially.
The functioning of the body greatly depends upon its hormones; hence, any fluctuations in its secretion can result in disruption of the individual’s health. Hence, hormonal imbalance is indeed a serious issue to emphasize.
However, to deal with this complication, hormone replacement therapies can be taken into account. Among the many available treatments, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) acquired a significant position with numerous benefits.
In this article, you will get to learn everything about this natural hormone therapy, so start reading right away!
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy: A detailed overview
Like all other hormone replacement therapies, BHRT is used to combat hormonal fluctuations.
The primary use of this therapy is made by individuals suffering from adrenal disruptions, thyroid disorders, menopause symptoms, insulin resistance, and osteoporosis. Testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone are the common hormones replicated in this therapy.
However, many people are completely unaware of the reason why this therapy is also regarded as natural hormone therapy. The reason is incredibly simple! Though BHRT hormones are artificial, they are derived from plants and not synthetic sources.
To be more specific, plant steroids, yam, and soybean are the primary sources. After deriving the respective hormones from plants, the Bio-Identical Hormones are generated in the laboratory in strict accordance with the mandates formulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
What are BHRT’s components?
BHRT comprises specific components that help in the replication of the body’s natural hormones to cope with hormonal fluctuations. The primary components of BHRT are:
- Testosterone
- Estrone
- Estriol
- Estradiol
- Progesterone
- Dehydroepiandrosterone (may be added both individually or combined)
Now, you must be confused about how these components work to suffice the body’s hormonal deficiencies. It is as follows:
Estrogen
Low levels of estrogen production in the body are largely responsible for giving birth to several health complications. It may include low sexual drive, obesity, lethargy, cardiovascular disease, etc.
The most common symptoms associated with low Estrogen production in the body are sudden hot flashes, excessive night sweats, and increased irritability.
The estriol and estradiol components present in the BHRT aid the body in coping with estrogen deficiency to a great extent.
Progesterone
Health issues such as irregular menstruation, unusual spotting, headache, discomfort, etc., are an indication of fluctuations in the body’s progesterone levels. Fertility issues such as problems with conception, miscarriage, etc., can even be the result of low progesterone levels.
Sleeping difficulties, excessive sweating, hot flashes, bloating, lethargy, numbness, anxiety, mood swings, depression, etc are some common symptoms of this hormonal deficiency.
The progesterone component present in BHRT largely aids the body in coping with progesterone deficiency and maintaining good health.
Testosterone
Both men and women can be negatively impacted by low testosterone levels in the body. A low level of testosterone in men can lead to erectile dysfunction and decreased sexual drive. Other issues, such as sleeping disorders, gynecomastia, low bone mass, lethargy, etc., are common too.
Low levels of testosterone in women may lead to the degradation of the health and functioning of the ovaries. Constant fatigue, hair loss, low semen production, etc., are some common symptoms of testosterone deficiency.
The hormonal imbalance can be effectively dealt with by the testosterone component present in BHRT. Besides this component, DHEA is sometimes implemented for better outcomes.
How is BHRT distinct from HRT?
Though many people consider bioidentical hormone replacement therapy and traditional hormone replacement therapy to be similar, they are entirely different.
Both therapies are performed to mitigate the body’s hormonal deficiencies, but there lies a major difference between them. The source from which both the hormones are derived is completely distinct.
In the case of BHRT, as you already know, the hormones are not derived from synthetic sources. Plant steroids are the primary source of deriving the hormone. Once derived, it is synthesized for human use in the laboratory.
The source of hormones is different in HRT. Unlike BHRT, it is not derived from plant sources. Instead, the urine of pregnant horses is the primary source. Also, it is sometimes derived from other synthetic hormones.
How can BHRT be taken?
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is greatly flexible. Flexibility implies that it is readily available in multiple forms, which are as follows:
- Injections
- Creams
- Gels
- Patches
- Implanted pellets
The availability of BHRT in so many forms increases the convenience of the patients greatly. You can take it in any form you desire. Depending upon your lifestyle habits and convenience, you can select your preferred type accordingly.
Is consulting a doctor necessary before opting for this therapy?
The first step you should take is to get yourself tested in case you suspect hormonal fluctuations or imbalances in your body. Assuming a hormonal deficiency without certified test results can lead to further complications.
Hence, reach out to a renowned doctor or clinic with advanced infrastructure and medical facilities to get your hormonal levels examined.
However, opting for BHRT without a doctor’s consultation might not be completely safe. Also, sharing your symptoms and health conditions with your doctor will enable them to prescribe you the appropriate form and dose of BHRT for more effective results.
Taking inappropriate quantities of this hormone replacement therapy either orally or topically can be severely harmful to your health.
What are the benefits associated with BHRT?
Boosting the body’s hormonal level to cope with perimenopause or menopause complications is the primary benefit associated with bioidentical hormones.
However, the list of benefits for BHRT does not end here. Some of the most common benefits of BHRT besides replicating hormones are as follows:
- Low risk of diabetes
- Better skin texture
- Low chances of tooth loss
- Reduction of skin wrinkles
- Improvement of skin elasticity
- Boost in skin hydration
Conclusion
Summing up, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is effective in coping with the body’s hormonal deficiencies. Even though it comes with multiple health benefits, opting for this therapy without the guidance of a professional medical provider can turn out to be risky. Hence, consult a doctor and opt for this therapy to combat your unbalanced hormonal levels.