Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is a type of hormone therapy that uses hormones that are identical in molecular structure to those produced naturally in the body. This therapy is often used to treat hormone imbalances in men and women, particularly as they age and their hormone levels decline.
One of the key differences between synthetic hormones and bioidentical hormones is the way they are produced. Synthetic hormones are created in a lab and have a different molecular structure from those produced by the body, making them foreign and inflammatory. This can lead to a greater risk of side effects and adverse reactions. In contrast, bioidentical hormones are derived from natural sources, such as plants, and are formulated to be structurally identical to the hormones produced by the body.
The function of hormones in the body is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism, energy levels, and body temperature. Adrenal hormones, such as cortisol, help the body respond to stress and regulate inflammation. Sex hormones, including estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, play a role in reproductive health, mood regulation, bone density, and cardiovascular health. Together estrogen and progesterone control most process that occur in a female body, as you will see outlined in the table below. Most women who have hysterectomy are started on estrogen (synthetic) but are not given progesterone which is equally as important and can prevent potential negative effects of imbalanced estrogen. Testosterone, on the other hand, is absolutely vital to male health and has important actions in a female body as well.
When hormone levels become imbalanced, a variety of symptoms can occur. For example, low thyroid hormone levels may lead to fatigue, weight gain, and feeling cold all the time. Adrenal hormone imbalances can cause symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, and difficulty managing stress. In women, low estrogen levels can result in mood swings, hot flashes, and vaginal dryness, while low testosterone levels in men may lead to decreased libido, muscle weakness, and mood changes.
Hormone | Function | Symptoms of imbalance | Labs |
Adrenals | Energy production, stress response, inflammation control, building blocks for sex hormones | Fatigue, brain fog, inflammation/body pain | DHEA, Pregnenolone, Cortisol |
Thyroid | Energy production, metabolism control, digestive regulation, brain and emotional regulation | Fatigue, weight gain/loss, dry skin, hair loss, brittle nails, constipation/diarrhea, anxiety/depression, brain fog | TSH, Total T4, Free T3, Reverse T3, Thyroid Antibodies |
Estrogen | "The glue" connecting all processes together. Mood, energy, menstrual cycle, cardiovascular health, bone health | Irregular menses, PMS, cyclical headaches/migraines, depression, irritability, brain fog, memory decline, varicose veins, wrinkles, osteoporosis, hot flashes night sweats, vaginal dryness, pain with intercourse | Estradiol, Estriol, Estrone |
Progesterone | "The break to estrogen", sleep, mood, menstrual cycle, maintaining pregnancy | Insomnia, anxiety, heavy or painful menses, miscarriages | Progesterone |
Testosterone | Energy, metabolism, muscle mass and strength, bone mass, mood, libido, cardiovasclar health | Fatigue, weight gain, muscle weakness or mass loss, osteoporosis, low sex drive, inability to produce or sustain an erection, anxiety/depression, lack of motivation, hypertension | Testosterone free and total |
BHRT works by restoring hormone levels to optimal levels, helping to alleviate symptoms and improve overall health and well-being. By using hormones that are bioidentical to those produced naturally in the body, this therapy can be a safe and effective treatment option for hormone imbalances. With bioidentical HRT there are no side effects, only effects of having too little or too much hormone. This is why it is important to work with a practitioner that can help you reach your optimal levels. If you are experiencing symptoms of hormone imbalance, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs. BHRT may be a beneficial option for restoring hormone balance and improving overall quality of life.
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