Most of us are familiar with the phrase raging hormones as the period of time when adolescents begin to change from a child. All manner of physical and emotional changes occur as these hormones increase during puberty, like hair growth, sexual urges, and body and voice changes. This is just one indication of how hormones affect our lives and bodies. Hormone replacement therapy is the other end of the spectrum and is needed when we lose our hormones or they become less strong during perimenopause or menopause. Keep reading if you ready to learn more about bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT).
Unbalanced or Deficient Hormones
Just as our hormones can be at a very high level during puberty, they can also become unbalanced or decrease later in life. This usually occurs when women go through menopause and men go through andropause.
The results of these lost or low hormones include many changes including the following:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness
- No interest in sex
- Sleep problems
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Mood changes
- Memory loss
- Confusion
If you are familiar with these symptoms, you are most likely going through perimenopause, menopause, or andropause.
Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are the most common hormones that decrease or become unbalanced during this time of life.
Hormone replacement therapy has helped many by balancing out the needed hormones to reduce the symptoms.
What Is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement?
Relatively new on the scene are BHRT treatments. All hormone replacements are either:
- Made in a drug lab
- Compounded by pharmacies based on your doctor’s orders
The compounded version is bioidentical. These can help you overcome your hormone deficiencies, reduce your symptoms, and enjoy a better quality of life. They consist of a blend of hormones tailored for you. The FDA has not yet given its full stamp of approval on all versions, but there is no doubt they are helping many people go through menopause with reduced symptoms. 1 to 2.5 million women over the age of 40 in the United States are using BHRT.
All types of hormone therapy have risks. It is best to start with a minimal amount that proves effective, and you should expect an adjustment period. Your doctor can alter the dose if you have any negative side effects.
Contact Right Choice Urgent Care at (281) 944-7900 to find out if bioidentical hormone replacement therapy could be right for you.
