Hormone imbalances affect millions worldwide, impacting overall health and quality of life. Bio-identical hormone therapy (BHT) has emerged as a promising solution to help restore balance and alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances. This therapy uses compounds chemically identical to the hormones naturally produced by the human body.
If you have a hormone imbalance and are considering BHT therapy, this article provides an introduction to bio-identical hormone therapy to help you in your BHT journey.
The Role of Hormones
Before jumping into understanding bio-identical hormones, you need to have an understanding of hormones. The endocrine glands in your body make hormones. These hormones are responsible for various functions in the body, including these and many more:
- Growth
- Appetite
- Libido
- Mood
Many of these functions will be affected if your hormones are out of balance. You may have mood swings, gain or lose weight for no reason, lose your desire for sex, and more. When your hormones become imbalanced, your doctor will help you decide on a course of treatment, one of which is bio-identical hormone therapy.
Understanding Bio-Identical Hormones
Bio-identical hormones are derived from plant estrogens that are chemically altered to mimic the body’s natural hormones. The most commonly replicated hormones in this therapy are estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. These hormones regulate most basic bodily functions, affecting mood and metabolism. Bio-identical hormone therapy aims to provide a more natural approach to hormone replacement.
The Difference Between Bio-Identical and Synthetic Hormones
Bio-identical hormones differ significantly from synthetic hormones. Synthetic hormones are made from many different sources that are not identical to human hormones, which can lead to less optimal absorption and more side effects.
Bio-identical hormones, on the other hand, are designed to be structurally identical to the human form, which can lead to better outcomes with fewer complications. This precise matching is believed to offer greater safety and effectiveness.
Benefits of Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy
The benefits of bio-identical hormone therapy are wide-ranging. Patients often report improved mood, increased energy levels, and better sleep patterns. For women, BHT can be particularly effective in relieving the symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and memory lapses. Men can also benefit from BHT, particularly in managing symptoms of testosterone deficiency such as fatigue, depression, and loss of muscle mass.
Bio-identical hormone therapy is also being used in the treatment of some conditions, such as adrenal and thyroid disorders, fibromyalgia, and osteoporosis. It may also provide improvement for the symptoms of some cancer treatments. These would need to be discussed with your provider.
Who Can Benefit from Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy?
Bio-identical hormone therapy is not for everyone. It’s typically recommended for individuals who have undergone thorough evaluations and testing that indicate a hormonal imbalance. Ideal candidates are those experiencing symptoms that significantly impair their quality of life.
While aging is one factor that can cause hormonal imbalances, other causes are not necessarily age-related. These can include severe menopausal symptoms in women, hormone imbalances due to reproductive surgeries like hysterectomies, andropause symptoms in men, and other hormonal disorders that affect physical and mental well-being.
The Process of Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy
Getting started with bio-identical hormone therapy involves several steps. Initially, a healthcare provider will conduct a detailed health assessment, including blood tests, to determine hormone levels. Based on these findings, a customized treatment plan is crafted. Hormones are administered in various forms, such as creams, patches, pills, or injections. Ongoing monitoring is essential to adjust dosages and ensure optimal hormone levels.
Alleviating Symptoms
The goal of any hormone replacement therapy is to alleviate the symptoms associated with hormone imbalance. Patients using bio-identical hormone therapy have noted many benefits, such as:
- Weight balancing out, not gaining for unknown reasons;
- Better sleep;
- Libido increase;
- Higher energy levels
- Mood stabilizing
- Better memory
- Decreased night sweats
Every person using BHT is different, and everyone will see different results. However, the overall experience is a decrease in the symptoms of hormone imbalance.
Potential Risks and Considerations
Like any treatment, bio-identical hormone therapy comes with potential risks. These can include increased risk of blood clots, gallbladder disease, and possible negative effects on heart health and breast tissue. Patients need to discuss these risks with a healthcare provider. Carefully assessing potential benefits and risks can help ensure the safest and most effective treatment plan.
It is important to discuss the possibility of side effects with your provider. These may mimic some of the symptoms of hormonal imbalance but will subside within the first few weeks as the body adjusts to having hormones return to near-normal or normal range. Some side effects include:
- Fatigue
- Spotting and cramps
- Acne
- Bloating or weight gain
Don’t let these side effects prevent you from getting your hormonal imbalance in check using BHT; these will subside in a few weeks, and your body will return to normal.
Choosing the Right Provider for Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy
In order for bio-identical hormone therapy to be successful, you need to find a well-educated practitioner. It is important to choose one who is experienced in hormone therapy and takes a holistic approach to health. Your provider should be knowledgeable about hormones and how various factors like diet, exercise, and stress management can impact hormonal health.
Conclusion
Bio-identical hormone therapy (BHT) offers a natural alternative for those struggling with hormonal imbalances. Using chemically identical hormones, BHT promises a balance tailored to the individual’s needs, aiming for minimal side effects and improved quality of life. However, as with any medical treatment, consult a healthcare professional to understand whether BHT is right for you.
Ready to Explore Bio-identical Hormone Therapy?If you’re interested in exploring bio-identical hormone therapy and seeing if it’s the right choice for your health needs, Sota Wellness is here to help. Our team of experts specializes in personalized treatment plans that respect your body’s unique chemistry. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a healthier, more balanced life. Visit our website or call us to learn more about how we can assist you in achieving optimal wellness.
Sources
Client Website
https://www.webmd.com/menopause/what-is-bioidentical-hormone-replacement-therapy
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3127562
https://www.healthline.com/health/bioidentical-hormone-replacement-therapy
