Health

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy- All you need to know 

MODEL RELEASED. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) patch. Doctor sticking an HRT patch on a patient's arm. HRT is a treatment that replaces the female sex hormones oestrogen and progesterone with synthetic versions, reducing the symptoms of the menopause. These include hot flushes, night sweating and atrophic vaginitis (vaginal dryness). HRT also helps prevent atherosclerosis (arterial narrowing due to fatty deposits) and osteoporosis (loss of bone density). Treatment is normally given for two to five years.

The hormones that are produced in your body control most of the functions that you perform. These hormones have a very well-developed communication system between the cells of your body and they coordinate with one another. Therefore, even a slight imbalance in the production of these hormones can have a huge impact on your health and overall well-being. In recent times, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy by Clinique Anti Aging for women’s health has been gaining a lot of attention in this field.

What is bioidentical hormone replacement therapy?

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), uses processed hormones which are designed exactly like the hormones that are produced by the glands of our body. It is often used in people who are experiencing the symptoms of perimenopause or menopause. These bioidentical hormones are made in a laboratory and are chemically similar to the ones that your body produces.

Benefits of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy

BHRT is used in people who are experiencing an imbalance in their hormone production due to perimenopause or menopause. It increases the level of hormones which have decreased due to certain conditions. It treats the symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, memory problems, sleep issues, sex problems, etc. It also reduces the risk of diabetes, cataract, tooth decay, etc.

Side-effects of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy

While this therapy has been approved by the FDA, it does have certain side effects. There is no doubt that bioidentical hormones are safer than traditional hormone replacement therapy but research has shown that even with bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, you can have certain risks such as blood clots, heart disease, breast cancer, stroke, etc. Once you begin with BHRT, you might also experience weight gain, bloating, cramps, acne, headaches, etc.

Forms of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy

BHRT can be taken in various forms such as creams, gels, batches, injections, etc. During your consultation with the doctor, enquire about the best form that will suit you and your lifestyle. After you have started with the therapy, your doctor will monitor you regularly to examine the response of the body.

Takeaway

While this is a modern approach towards balancing the hormones in your body, keep in mind that not all BHRT products have been approved by the FDA. Therefore, make sure that you use FDA-approved products as they have very less side-effects and other risks. Also, you should ensure that you visit your doctor for regular checkups to avoid any serious side effects and to track the progress.