Bio Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) involves using hormones that are identical in molecular structure to the hormones that the human body produces. They come from a plant source of which a substance known as diosgenin is extracted and then altered to a variety of bio-identical hormones. It is used to treat symptoms of menopause, perimenopause, and post-menopause.
Once you have had the blood or salivary tests, and the BHRT has been created to meet your specific hormonal needs through a compounding pharmacy, you should notice that it is working within 3 to 4 days. It is important to be aware that because response to the treatment is individual, your dosage may have to be adjusted during the first few months of treatment to achieve the desired result.
A Bioidentical Hormone course of therapy is made by a compounding pharmacist for each individual patient that is centered on the particular symptoms and test results. The types of hormones used in BHRT include Progesterone, Tri-Est (Estriol, Estrone and Estradiol mixture), Testosterone, DHEA, Pregnenolone, Melatonin, and Desiccated Thyroid Extract, T3 & T4.
One method of administration is Transdermal. (Creams and Gels) They are absorbed into the skin and the hormones are dispersed within a few seconds. They attach to the target cells. Vaginal creams are also used in a Transdermal treatment.
Oral capsules are another method of administration. These capsules have to be formulated so they do not get broken down in the stomach and rendered ineffective. Sub-lingual Drops and Troches are dropped on veins close to the surface of the mouth. (Usually the vein under the tongue) It is designed to be directly absorbed quickly. Small doses are given and the drops are normally flavored.
Conventional Synthetic Hormone Replacement Therapy has been discovered to increase the risk of breast cancer, strokes, heart attacks, as well as blood clots. BHRT treatments have been proven not to increase the risk of these kinds of medical problems. Other benefits of BHRT include: decreasing insomnia, anxiety, depression, bloating, headaches, irritability, and hot flashes. There is also improved concentration, alertness, sex drive, and menstruation cycles.
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy has fewer side effects because the hormones are natural. Before going through treatment, it is important to test for a hormone imbalance so it is not misinterpreted for another illness such as depression. As well, the specific hormone that is not in balance has to be identified so the correct therapy will be given and customized to fit the particular needs of the patient.
A hormone imbalance can be very challenging condition to cope with. Anxiety, mood swings, depression, can be a tough situation to handle for both patients and their families. Fortunately medical researchers are discovering and implementing safer methods to boost low hormones. BHRT is one hormone replacement treatment that more medical professionals are now prescribing as a harmless and simple treatment for hormone replacement. Find out how Bioidentical Hormone Restoration Therapy can improve your overall health and well being.
