Bioidentical HRT: Is it the Fountain of Youth?

What do your hormones do?

Body hormones regulate most vital bodily functions, such as sleep, appetite, digestion, growth, immune system function, mood, sex drive, and reproductive health. Any hormonal imbalance or decline in the body's hormones can disrupt bodily functions, causing uncomfortable and sometimes painful symptoms.

When do a woman’s hormones decline?

The primary hormones affecting women's health are estrogen and progesterone. These hormones begin to decline during the perimenopausal stage, which can start before the complete menopause. Menopause and the preceding years leading to it, “The Perimenopause,” are normal stages in a woman’s life. The hormonal decline brings about various bothersome symptoms, like hot flashes, mood swings, and depression, for all women.

What is Bioidentical HRT?

BIHRTs are a type of hormonal therapy used to compensate for hormonal deficiencies that occur during the premenopausal and menopausal stages. They are also employed in cancer treatments, insulin resistance, fibromyalgia, and osteoporosis. These hormones are manufactured from plant-based components that closely resemble the composition of naturally produced estrogen and progesterone. These treatments come in various forms, including pills, injections, creams, subcutaneous patches, and patches.

Some pharmaceutical companies produce this type of hormonal therapy in various brand formulations. However, the most widespread type of this treatment is compounding pharmacy formulations, where pharmacists create the medication based on the specific individual needs and dosages the doctor prescribes. Some studies suggest that these custom-made formulations are more effective than commercially manufactured medications, as they precisely meet individual needs.

How are these treatments different?

In the past, doctors prescribed traditional hormone replacement therapies, which were chemically produced and did not mimic the natural composition of body hormones. While these treatments alleviated the symptoms of menopause, numerous studies revealed their role in increasing the risk of breast and uterine cancers. Consequently, the consumption of these medications has significantly declined globally in the last two decades.

Biologically matching hormones, which have gained substantial support among many gynecologists, pharmacists, and even complementary medicine practitioners in recent years, have not shown any evidence of increasing cancer risks. However, like any other treatment, they do have side effects.

Benefits BIHRT

• Treatment for hormonal imbalance in women during the premenopausal and menopausal stages.
• Improvement of sexual desire in women experiencing age-related decline.
• Reduction of the intensity of hot flashes.
• Control of weight gain.
• Reduction of night sweats.
• Enhancement of memory and focus.
• Promotion of mental health and mood improvement.
• Reduced risk of diabetes.
• Improvement of skin and reduction of wrinkles.
• Promotion of bone and dental health.

This type of treatment is often touted as the elusive fountain of youth everyone has been searching for. However, it is crucial to approach these medications only under the guidance of a doctor.

Side effects and risks

As this type of treatment is still relatively new, ensuring it has received approval from health authorities in your country is essential. Do not take this treatment without a prescription from a specialized doctor after necessary examinations and evaluations. Initial studies indicate that some types of this treatment may cause side effects and risks, including:

• Increased risk of breast cancer, especially in women who have had it before or have a family history.
• Heart diseases and blood clots, especially in high blood sugar and cholesterol cases or a family history of these diseases.
• Bladder problems.

In conclusion

Hormone replacement therapy may not be suitable for everyone, whether made from natural or chemical substances, and its effects should not be underestimated. It is essential to consult with a trusted specialist doctor, ask all your questions, and get all the answers that dispel any concerns. The symptoms of premenstrual and menopausal periods can be annoying and painful at times, so do not succumb to the notion of "menopausal age" that has become obsolete now. Understand that some solutions and treatments can alleviate the symptoms of this crucial stage in your life so that you can enjoy the full maturity and tranquility of this golden age.