What Are Bioidentical Hormones?

Hormones are specific chemicals produced by various glands in our bodies that control most of our daily functions.

Bioidentical hormones are derived from plants that are chemically identical to the hormones generated by our body. These are then used to treat men and women whose hormone levels are low or out of balance.

What Is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is a process in which plant-based hormones are injected into your body to replace the natural hormones whose levels have dropped or become unbalanced. It is most commonly used to alleviate perimenopause and menopausal symptoms.
It may also be used to alleviate cancer-related symptoms or to treat illnesses such as:

• insulin resistance
• adrenal and thyroid disorders
• osteoporosis
• fibromyalgia

Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are three of the most often utilized hormones in this therapy.

What Are the Risks of Bioidentical Hormones?

Also related: NATURAL HORMONE BALANCING FOR MEN AND WOMEN
It has been demonstrated in research studies that there are risks for women who use hormone therapy (HT).
It raises the risk of blood clots, strokes, and gallbladder disease. Also, the risk of heart disease and breast cancer may rise in older women who use hormone treatment for a lengthy period.
Many doctors who prescribe bioidentical hormones say that they are safer than traditional HRT. However, no large-scale research studies on bioidentical hormones have been conducted to prove this theory.

What Is the Effect of Bio identical Hormone Replacement Therapy on Your Health?

Replacing hormones that you lack with doctor-prescribed bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can help you attain a better quality of life and lessen symptoms of other diseases.
The following symptoms can be alleviated with BHRT

• Weight gain
• Mood swings
• Hot flashes
• Vaginal dryness
• Night sweats
• Low energy levels
• Memory loss
• Difficulty sleeping
• Decreased interest in sex

Is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Safe?

While hormone therapy has its share of benefits and is mostly safe, some risks are also involved.
When you initially begin taking a course, there is an adjustment phase, as with most hormone therapies.
Side effects may emerge in the first few weeks and then disappear as your body adjusts to the new hormone level. These side effects are

• Fatigue
• Bloating
• Increased facial hair
• Spotting
• Cramps
• Headaches
• Tenderness in the breasts

Also read: Menopause: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment and BHRT Connection

That’s why it’s important to consult your doctor before undergoing BHRT treatment.
Who Should Not Take Bioidentical Hormones?
Certain women should not undergo hormone replacement therapy until extensive safety studies have been completed.
If you have a personal history of breast cancer, stroke, or a blood clot, you will not be considered as a candidate for bio-identical hormone replacement therapy.

If you are looking for an expert doctor for BHRT treatment, call us at 843-572-1600 or schedule an appointment today. At the Center for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, our team of highly qualified and well-trained doctors are committed to taking full care of your overall health.