Sometimes referred to as natural hormone therapy, bio-identical hormone therapy (BHT) is so-named because it involves the use of hormones that behave like hormones your body naturally produces. This form of hormone replacement therapy is commonly recommended for women looking to ease symptoms related to menopause. After consistent bio-identical hormone therapy, you should experience overall improvements with your physical and mental health and well-being.
What is Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy?
Laboratory-created bio-identical hormones are typically made from natural sources that often include plant products. These synthetic hormones come in various forms, including injections, pills, patches, implanted pellets, creams, and gels. The dosage and length of time that the treatment is recommended will vary based on individual health-related goals.
Who May Benefit from the Therapy?
Normally, any type of hormone therapy isn’t discussed until traditional methods for managing menopause symptoms are attempted. If you are not responding well to such efforts, consider getting evaluated to determine if bio-identical hormone therapy may be a more effective solution.
Bio-identical hormone therapy is commonly used to treat women for symptoms they are experiencing after starting menopause. This treatment may also be beneficial if you are experiencing perimenopause (the time before menopause) symptoms that are noticeably affecting your quality of life. It can also be used by men who are dealing with a hormone imbalance.
Possible benefits associated with BHT include:
• Reduced bloating and fatigue
• Increased sex drive
• Fewer issues with hot flashes
• Improved sleep quality
• Reduced hair thinning
• Improved cognitive abilities
What to Expect
The first step with bio-identical hormone therapy is to determine what your existing hormone levels are. This can be done with a simple test. The results will be used to determine the dosage needed to restore normal hormone levels.
Everyone responds differently to any type of hormone replacement therapy. For this reason, your hormone levels will need to be periodically monitored after you start BHT to keep the levels normal. If you are new to any type of hormone replacement therapy, it can be helpful to keep a journal for a brief period of time to track how you are responding to the treatment.
You may also be advised to manage underlying health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure that could have an impact on how your body reacts to bio-identical hormones. Your overall health will be evaluated as well to make sure you are not having any adverse reactions to the natural synthetic hormones.
To get all the facts about bio-identical hormone therapy, simply book an appointment at Optimal Health and Wellness, located in Pasadena, CA. Contact our office today to set up your consultation!
