Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) uses hormones consisting of compounds with identical chemical make-ups to hormones that are naturally found in the body. These hormones have a base made of wild yam and soy, allowing them to be compatible with the human body. BHRT is used in place of synthetic hormones, which have a foreign structural make-up to the body. The unrecognized molecular structure of synthetic hormones has been known to cause adverse side-effects, which is why many people prefer bioidentical over synthetic.
Cells are the creators of the many different hormones found throughout the body. The key role of hormones is to act as messengers by traveling through the bloodstream and relaying messages to and from the different cells. Without the transfer of these messages and signals, the different parts of the body would not be able to cooperate and communicate together for proper function. Poor communication between the cells is a major cause of ailment and disease.
Replacement of bioidentical hormones in women is used to increase low levels of progesterone, testosterone, and estrogen. These deficiencies are common in women that have had their ovaries removed, or are menopausal. This therapy is believed to treat symptoms including mood-swings, vaginal dryness, headaches, sore joints, and sleep disturbances.
As men get older, they go through a change that is similar to menopause that is called andropause. A loss of bone density and muscle mass, along with irritability, insulin resistance, periods of depression, and a decreased sex drive may occur during this time. These changes are the result of a testosterone deficiency.
Sublingual/oral pills and hormone-enhanced topical creams are all used to treat hormone deficiencies. The creams tend to absorb slower into the bloodstream, which is one reason why the topical creams are commonly preferred over the oral methods.
The targeted achievement of bioidentical hormone usage is to balance hormones before the deficiency creates bigger health problems. Successful treatment can give patients a feeling of control over their health and quality of life.
Some researchers and doctors believe that these hormone replacements are very risky, while others say that they are very useful in preventing health complications later in life. There have been some studies that have linked bioidentical replacement to a higher risk of cerebrovascular accident, heart disease, thrombosis/embolisms, and breast cancer.
Undiagnosed hormone imbalances will not only inhibit the well-being of those affected, but can eventually lead to serious health problems. Doctors use simple blood tests to determine which hormones are deficient in the body, and how much replacement is needed for a proper balance. Treatment usually starts in smaller doses, but can be increased until there are noticeable signs of improvement. Since controlling hormonal deficiencies can be a complicated process, it is best to seek guidance from an internal medicine specialist or an endocrinologist. These doctors have more specialized experience with hormonal deficiency diagnosis and treatment than family doctors. Although there are many people that are very skeptical about using bioidentical hormones, there are also many that give it a very high recommendation.
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