Commonly referred to as “natural hormones” because they are identical to hormones produced in the body (estrogen, testosterone, progesterone), bioidentical hormones are actually hormones synthesized in a laboratory. Read on to find out more about bioidentical hormones.
A Is for Androgen
Not just for males, androgen is produced in both men and women - just in different amounts. In women, androgen is produced in the ovaries, adrenal glands, and fat cells, and is essential to female reproductive development. This hormone is also the primary factor in maintaining libido. In addition, androgens are necessary for estrogen synthesis and have shown to play a primary role in preventing bone loss while regulating body function before, during, and after menopause.
Despite their productive nature, too much or too little androgen can result in a cascade of problems. Excess androgen can result in side effects such as acne, thinning hair, or hirsutism (excess hair in unusual places like the chin). Low androgen levels can produce effects such as low libido, fatigue, and emotional instability. Androgen levels begin dropping in a woman's 20's, and once menopause hits, androgen production declines by over 50% in the adrenal glands.
B Is for Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
Women suffering from menopause symptoms caused by low androgen or other low hormone levels, who are seeking an end to hot flashes, night sweats, memory loss, and weight gain, are turning to bioidentical hormones for relief. If your hormones are out of balance, your body does not respond at its optimal level. But with bioidentical hormones there are healthcare professionals that can design individual programs to help you go back to your old self.
C Is for Can Bioidentical Hormones Work for Me?
With proper use, bioidentical hormones may help to alleviate many symptoms of menopause including hot flashes, mood swings and low libido. For consistent safety and dosage, it is best to take FDA-approved hormone preparations, whether bioidentical or synthetic.
However, there is no scientific evidence proving that bioidentical hormones are any safer to use than other forms of hormone replacement, and it is suspected that this therapy may have similar side effects to standard HRT.
Recommendations
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy may help alleviate your menopause symptoms, but you should always consult your doctor or a healthcare practitioner about whether you should take hormone therapy at all. Women looking for a truly natural treatment need look no further than healthy lifestyle changes and herbal supplements. Click here to read more information about bioidentical hormones and menopause.
