Benefits and side effects of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy
Published on: August 2, 2022
The term “bioidentical hormone replacement therapy” sounds a little unfamiliar, right? That’s because this type of treatment is relatively new. It’s a form of hormone therapy that utilizes hormones that are as similar to those normally produced in the human body as possible.
The idea behind bioidentical hormones is that they are more readily recognized by the body and thus produce fewer adverse effects than other types.
In the course of this article, we will be looking into the benefits and side effects of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy.
What exactly is bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT)?
Most of the body’s fundamental processes are regulated by hormones. They allow for intercellular communication between cells in the body. They regulate your appetite, immune system, mood, and libido in addition to digestion and growth.
Therefore, even a minor hormonal imbalance can have serious consequences for your health and well-being.
BHRT is one of the two types of Natural hormone replacement therapy (NHRT), the second being Traditional natural hormone replacement therapies (THRTs).
BHRT can be used in cases whereby there is a drop or imbalance in hormone levels. It is a form of Hormone Therapy that uses hormones that are structurally identical, or bioidentical, to human hormones. This therapy has many benefits and is one of the best solutions for people experiencing menopause and perimenopause symptoms.
Benefits of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy
Treating hormone related issues
Hormone related issues such as menopause, low libido and weight loss can be treated with BHRT. All of the hormones in BHRT are made from plant sources or from yams. These bioactive plant estrogens are referred to as phytoestrogens.
Phytoestrogens are not the same thing as estrogen; however, they have a similar molecular structure to estrogen and therefore can interact with estrogen receptors on cells.
Improves sexual appearance
Because estrogen levels naturally decline with age, vaginal dryness and soreness during sexual activity are common side effects of aging. This may cause you to avoid having sexual encounters completely or make you feel uncomfortable having them in the first place. As a natural hormone replacement for females, BHRT helps in restoring estrogen, this results in increased vaginal lubrication and an enhanced desire to have sexual encounters.
Enhances hair and nail health
It might please you to know that BHRT isn’t only limited to menopause and libido; it is also very effective in strong hair and nails. It is possible for your hair, nails, and bones to be negatively affected when your hormone levels drop below the usual range. This can result in issues such as brittle nails and hair loss. The production of proteins in your body, such as collagen, is increased when you take bioidentical hormones. This not only makes you appear younger but it also restores the strength of your hair and nails.
FAQS
What are the dangers of bioidentical hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are becoming more popular with women these days as an alternative to hormone replacement therapy. And while there are many benefits to bioidentical hormones, such as very low risk of cancer, there are also some major dangers associated with them too.
The dangers of bioidentical hormones come about due to the fact that these hormones are manmade. This means that they aren’t found in nature and don’t contain all of the nutrients that our bodies need. Therefore, when taking them, you’re at risk for a range of side effects, including bloating, spotting, weight gain, and even blood clots.
What is the difference between HRT and bioidentical hormones?
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) differs from bioidentical hormones in the sense that HRT involves the use of estrogen and progesterone to replace those that are lacking or have declined with age, illness, childbirth, and menopause.
It is often used in women who do not want to undergo a hysterectomy while bioidentical hormones are naturally occurring, synthetic estrogens derived from plants and animal sources that are identical or as close to as possible to human-made estrogen. They offer many of the same benefits as HRT without the associated risks.
Is bioidentical hormone replacement therapy safe?
The Food and Drug Association (FDA) and other medical organizations have found no evidence that the hormones marketed as “bioidentical” or “natural” hormones pose aren’t safer than hormones used in traditional hormone therapy. Furthermore, there is no proof that they are more efficient.
How long can you stay on bioidentical hormones?
The recommended therapy span is a maximum of seven years. However, treatment should be discontinued when there is relief from your symptoms. Though in some patients, symptoms may return which might require other therapy options.
What are the signs that you need hormone replacement therapy?
HRT, or hormone replacement therapy, has many benefits for women experiencing symptoms of menopause and is a proven treatment option that helps alleviate many uncomfortable symptoms.
There are a host of signs associated with the need to get a replacement therapy. The most common symptoms that indicate you may need HRT are hot flashes, insomnia, night sweats, chronic pain in joints or ligaments (such as knee pain), and difficulty with memory.
However, it is the duty of your therapists to provide after care treatments targeted towards minimising and controlling the side effects.
Here at London Cosmetic Clinics, our qualified doctors in partnership with experts in the field of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy will carry out proper test to determine your condition and tailor the therapy to your unique needs. We will ascertain whether you have any underlying conditions to prevent any treatment contradiction that can lead to side effects. We will also provide periodic follow up treatments to minimise and resolve all side effects to the barest minimum.
Final words
There is nothing that has a benefit in life without a downside, and has already been stated, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy has amazing benefits but also possesses side effects.
To get the best out of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy and avoid adverse side effects, get it done by experts in the field.
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