Hormones are chemicals that send messages throughout your body. They help your cells communicate with one another and coordinate many of your major bodily functions, including everything from growth to appetite to libido. Just a small change in hormones can have large effects on your physical and mental health. To ease the symptoms of hormonal imbalance, you may benefit from bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, or BHRT. Here’s what you need to know about BHRT:
What Are Bioidentical Hormones?
Your endocrine glands naturally produce chemicals called hormones. These chemicals are then circulated in your bloodstream to get to the appropriate body parts so they can coordinate the correct functions, such as metabolism, reproduction, mood, etc. If your hormones are thrown out of balance, you could experience unpleasant symptoms such as sexual dysfunction, weight changes, mood swings, irregular menstruation, acne, and others. Bioidentical hormones are hormones that closely resemble the natural chemicals produced by your body. Because these man-made hormones are chemically identical to those you produce, your body can more easily absorb them and use them to overcome imbalances.
Purpose of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) may be recommended for many reasons. As you age, your body’s ability to produce certain hormones declines. For example, the reduction in estrogen levels during perimenopause can lead to vaginal dryness, hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, low libido, and mental health changes. Certain health conditions can also cause hormonal imbalances, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), chronic stress, hypothyroidism, and others. These can cause a variety of symptoms, such as weight changes, excessive hair growth, sleep disturbances, irregular menstruation, acne, hair thinning, mood swings, and more. A change in hormone levels due to menopause or other health conditions can be improved by taking bioidentical hormones.
Is BHRT Safe?
BHRT is the safest and most effective type of hormone replacement therapy. Because bioidentical hormones have the same structure as those produced in your body, it can easily recognize and use them to carry out bodily functions. Traditional hormone replacement therapy had an increased risk of breast cancer, blood clots, and heart disease; however, these risks are significantly reduced with BHRT. Recent research even suggests BHRT may reduce the risk of heart disease, osteoporosis, and diabetes in women who begin therapy within 10 years of their last menstrual period. As with all therapies, BHRT can have possible side effects that vary depending on the form you take and your personal medical history. Some of the most common side effects may include acne, weight gain, mood swings, headaches, or fatigue.
How to Take BHRT
BHRT can come in many forms. These could include oral pills, patches, implanted pellets, injections, creams, or gels. Your healthcare provider may recommend a specific form based on your medical history and risk factors. When you begin BHRT, you could notice improvements in your symptoms within as little as a couple weeks or after a few months. However, it’s typically recommended to wait up to six months to decide whether BHRT is working for you. Once you start this therapy, it’s important to be monitored regularly so your body’s response and any side effects can be measured. While you can start BHRT at any age, you may experience the most benefits for your health if you begin within 10 years of your last period. Many women choose to start at the onset of menopausal symptoms.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy at Hickory Drugs
Here at Hickory Drugs in Canton, GA, we understand the challenges of hormonal imbalance, and our goal is to help you rediscover balance and improve your quality of life. As a compounding pharmacy, we offer hormone testing and customized bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. Whether your hormonal balance is affected by menopause, stress, medications, or health conditions, our certified pharmacists can examine your hormone levels and formulate a personalized BHRT treatment that meets your unique needs. Are you ready to learn more about BHRT and find out if it’s right for you? Reach out to us today to get started!
