What is Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)?
Bio-Identical hormones are different from those used in traditional (more commonly known) hormone replacement therapy (HRT). We have been programmed by Hollywood stars and educated in nursing and other medical universities touting that hormone replacement is detrimental to our health.
In a way...THAT IS TRUE!
Traditional hormone replacement therapies (HRT) are made from conjugated equine (yes, horse) estrogens and other synthetic and thrombotic hormones. The majority of the studies demonstrating adverse health events were conducted using these forms of synthetic hormones. This has generated global concerns that we should avoid hormone replacement altogether. As a population ages, their hormones decline. Many of our patients over forty, do not function or feel as well as they could. The symptoms that accompany peri-menopause, menopause and andropause (listed below) could be alleviated with BHRT and despite this information, our healthcare system is teaching patients to avoid these dangerous "hormones".
However, that is NOT the same therapy as Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy.
Bio-Identical hormones are hormones with the same molecular structure to those produced in the HUMAN body. The body recognizes them and allows them to function in the same way our natural hormone production would work. Thus, avoiding the dangerous side effects caused by synthetic, commercially available hormones. Bio-Identical hormones are derived from nature, and thus, cannot be patented.
No Patent = No Money
Need I say more?
Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are among those most commonly used for Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy. In our office, they are prescribed in various forms:
Pills
Creams
Injections
BHRT is typically used as people age and hormone levels drop. It is particularly beneficial for women who are in peri-menopause or menopause. It’s used to increase the levels of the hormones that have dropped and improve symptoms such as sleep issues, mood changes, memory loss, weight gain, hot flashes, night sweats, bone density loss, skin collagen degradation, and reduced libido.
In addition to helping with symptoms, hormone replacement therapy may also reduce your risk for diabetes, cataracts and prevent tooth loss with aging. There’s evidence that it can help improve skin thickness, hydration, and elasticity, and even reduce wrinkles!
For more information on how we treat deficiencies in hormones for men, please see our Testosterone Replacement blog post.
