Bioidentical hormones are identical in molecular structure to the hormones produced naturally in the human body. As we age, our hormone levels decline, leading to unpleasant symptoms. Replacing diminishing hormones with bioidentical versions can provide relief by restoring hormone balance.
Bioidentical hormones used in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are sourced from plant extracts and made to match human hormones like estrogen, progesterone, testosterone and DHEA on a molecular level. This makes them ideal for HRT since the body recognizes and utilizes bioidentical hormones like natural hormones.
Compared to synthetic hormone replacements, bioidentical hormones offer unique advantages:
Bioidentical hormone therapy also protects long-term health. Estrogen and testosterone help maintain strong bones, healthy hearts and improved brain function as we age.
Let's look at the major hormones targeted in bioidentical replacement therapy.
Estrogen regulates female sexual development and reproduction. It is also essential for cardiovascular health and strong, flexible bones.
Estrogen is responsible for:
As women approach menopause, estrogen levels decline. This hormone shift is responsible for menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, irregular periods and sleep disturbances.
Lower estrogen after menopause also negatively impacts heart health and bone density long-term. Replacing estrogen through timely bioidentical HRT can prevent issues associated with estrogen loss.
Women with the following hormone-related conditions can benefit from bioidentical estrogen therapy:
Testosterone plays a key role in physical, mental and sexual health for both men and women. Age-related testosterone decline can significantly impact quality of life.
Testosterone helps:
Testosterone levels begin decreasing after age 30. Low testosterone or ‘Low T’ is typically diagnosed through symptoms and blood tests.
Testosterone replacement is extremely beneficial for men and women who struggle with Low T symptoms like:
Bioidentical testosterone restores healthy levels, thereby relieving Low T symptoms.
Progesterone prepares the uterus for pregnancy each month and maintains early pregnancy. This vital hormone also promotes mental wellbeing.
Key functions of progesterone include:
If conception does not occur, progesterone levels decline triggering menstruation. As women near menopause, ovulation becomes irregular and progesterone secretion decreases further.
Bioidentical micronized progesterone restores optimal levels in women with:
Bioidentical hormones are not necessarily safer or more effective than synthetic hormones for menopausal symptoms. Large, long-term studies comparing health outcomes of bioidenticals versus synthetics are still needed to determine if one is truly superior.
Dehydroepiandrosterone or DHEA is made mostly by the adrenal gland. DHEA gets converted to testosterone and estrogen in body tissues to balance hormones.
DHEA is crucial for:
DHEA peaks around age 25 and steadily declines. Low DHEA is linked to issues like sexual dysfunction, sluggish metabolism, loss of muscle mass and bone density.
Bioidentical DHEA therapy primarily benefits menopausal women and middle-aged/older men with:
Oral DHEA tablets can restore optimal levels over several months, thereby improving age-related hormone deficiency issues.
Detecting hormone shortfalls through testing is crucial before starting bioidentical HRT. Accurately assessing deficiencies ensures customized treatment for ideal symptom relief.
Complete diagnostic hormone panels help identify deficiencies. Tests should evaluate:
Diagnostic blood tests are best done at specific times depending on symptoms and fertility status. Testing may need to be repeated periodically to monitor hormone therapy effectiveness.
Saliva tests are also available for select hormones, especially when checking circadian patterns.
Even before testing, symptoms signaling hormone shortfalls include:
Prompt lab testing at the onset of such problems is key to detect declining hormones before long-term health consequences emerge.
Every bioidentical hormone therapy plan must be individually tailored based on lab test findings and medical history.
Working closely with a knowledgeable hormone specialist ensures customized protocols targeting specific hormone deficiencies to alleviate troubling symptoms interfering with wellbeing and quality of life.
Consider hormone testing if you are experiencing any symptoms described in this article. Identifying and addressing hormone imbalances early on can prevent long term health issues while helping regain optimal function. Contact Renewal Hormone Clinic today to explore your treatment options. Our compassionate care team looks forward to helping you feel your best again!
Integrating wholesome nutrition, stress-relieving therapies and consistent exercise amplifies the benefits of your customized bioidentical hormone treatments. Portland offers premier wellness resources - be sure to incorporate self-care activities that support your protocol. Our caring staff provides guidance to help you feel your best during each step of your hormone balancing journey.
