HRT/BHRT

Bioidentical hormone therapy (BHRT) is a personalized approach to hormone replacement that addresses imbalances in both men and women. These imbalances can begin as early as 35 years old, with natural hormone levels starting to decline around the age of 28. Factors such as increased stress and the early use of pharmaceutical hormones contribute to imbalances, leading to issues with thyroid and adrenal function, among other health problems.

Unlike traditional hormone replacement therapy (HRT) of the past, which utilized pharmaceutical hormone treatments, BHRT supplements are derived from plants to match the body’s natural hormones. These supplements are produced in a compounding pharmacy and are typically provided in cream, capsule, or pellet form (which is placed under the skin). BHRT can be prescribed for both men and women and is highly effective for those over the age of 35 who are experiencing symptoms of hormone imbalance.

Hormone therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Many options exist, allowing physicians to prescribe different types and doses tailored to meet an individual’s specific needs and overall health status. What is helpful for one person may be very different from what another person requires.

There are three basic formulations of hormone therapy: estrogen, testosterone, and progestogen. These hormones are naturally produced in the body but tend to decline with age.

For women:

hormone levels drop significantly as they approach and enter peri-menopause, leading to a range of symptoms, including:

– Foggy brain and trouble concentrating
– Headaches and sleep issues
– Low sex drive and lack of motivation
– Joint and muscle aches, lack of muscle mass, and long recovery time after exercise
– Dry skin and hair
– Hot flashes, night sweats, and heavy sweating

For men:

Testosterone levels can start declining as early as 30 years of age. Symptoms of low testosterone include:

– Low sex drive
– Middle body (stomach) weight gain
– Tiredness** and lack of motivation
– Increased alcohol consumption
– Moodiness

The goal of hormone therapy is to replenish the hormones that are no longer naturally produced by the body, helping to restore each person’s unique hormonal balance. This restoration promotes optimal well-being, supports anti-aging, and alleviates symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances, leading to improved overall health and vitality.

For the majority of healthy women in perimenopause, menopause,
and post-menopause, who do not have contraindications, the
benefits of treating menopause symptoms with hormone therapy
outweigh the risks.

1. Hormone therapy is an effective treatment for hot
   flashes and night sweats. For women whose daily
   lives are disrupted by these menopause symptoms,
   hormone therapy can improve sleep quality, fatigue,
   mood, and quality of life.
2. Hormone therapy can reduce the risk of broken bones
   and osteoporosis.
3. Hormone therapy can treat the genitourinary
   syndrome of menopause: recurrent UTIs, painful sex,
   vaginal dryness.