Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy: How Does It Work?

Hormone imbalances in men and women can lead to many health issues. They’re one of the main causes of discomfort during menopause in women, hair loss, and improper organ function. Since 2002, millions of people have found relief through bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT).

What is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, which is also called compounded hormone therapy (CHT), is the use of hormones that more closely mimic natural, biologically produced human hormones. They’ve been shown to be more effective than other forms of synthetic hormones in addressing physical and emotional issues caused by hormone fluctuations and imbalances.

What Causes Hormone Imbalance?

Hormone imbalances can manifest at any age, but they’re more typical as women enter perimenopause and menopause. In men, they begin after the age of 30. They’re often just the natural result of the aging process, a time when many bodily systems diminish to a certain extent. Illnesses, medications, and stress, both environmental and personal, can also lead to imbalances. Poor diets that rely heavily on processing and additives can affect our hormones also.

There are symptoms that are specific to gender such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness in women and erectile dysfunction or breast development in men. Others are typical in both men and women. They include:

∙ Low libido
∙ Loss of muscle mass
∙ Increased belly fat
∙ Changes in sleep patterns and insomnia
∙ Depression and anxiety
∙ Irritability and difficulty concentrating
∙ Digestive problems

The hormones used in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy are derived from plant sources, usually wild yams and soybeans. They’re considered safe for addressing hormone inadequacies n men and women. They differ from traditional hormone replacement therapies, which take a kind of one-size-fits-all approach by using some combination of testosterone, progesterone, and estradiol regardless of the specific hormone composition of the individual client.

How Does BHRT Work?

After performing saliva and blood tests to determine the extent of hormone levels and identify which hormones are insufficient, your care provider will work out an individualized formulation to address your specific health concerns. Each therapy is created to suit the person for whom it’s prescribed. Your treatment program can consist of pills, creams, or injections.

Who’s a Candidate for Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Adults over 18 who are experiencing the symptoms addressed in this article, and who have been found to have a significant imbalance of hormone levels after testing. Studies show a significant improvement in symptoms shortly after this therapy begins in up to 25 percent of subjects. It can even minimize the visible signs of aging.

There are some people who should not consider BHRT, but you should always discuss all of your options with a medical practitioner who knows your health history. This treatment is not recommended for

∙ Women who have had endometrial or breast cancer
∙ Anyone with a history of blood clots or stroke
∙ Anyone with a history of cardiovascular disease

Our goal is to help people just like you improve their lives and health. If you’d like to learn more about bioidentical hormone therapy, contact Allure Laser & Med Spa today to schedule your consultation! We are conveniently located in Tinley Park, IL.