In the U.S., millions of women suffer from hormone imbalance. This is primarily due to conditions related to menopause, but may also be brought on by premenstrual symptoms, weight gain, adrenal problems, or other heath issues. In many cases, bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is the right solution.
Symptoms:
Signs of menopause and other hormone imbalances may include:
* Weight Gain
* Hot Flashes
* Mood Changes
* Depression
* Low Libido
* Insomnia
* Fatigue
* Memory Loss
* Vaginal Dryness
Aging
In older women hot flashes, insomnia, weight gain, and night sweats are the typical symptoms of hormonal imbalance. Weight gain is often misdiagnosed but is one of the first signs of menopause-related conditions. High stress, poor diet, hysterectomy procedures, and lack of exercise can also contribute to these symptoms. Hormone imbalance can lead to more serious conditions such as high blood pressure, chronic illness, weak bones, and diabetes.
BHRT Benefits
These are laboratory products engineered to be chemically identical to natural hormones. A physician can implement these treatments to counter the negative effects of hormone imbalance on a woman’s body. This reduces unpleasant symptoms and allows a woman to enjoy a better quality of life.
With BHRT, women can reverse the symptoms associated with menopause and reduce their risk in later life of problems such as heart disease or osteoporosis. With the proper hormone levels, older women can feel healthier and more energetic than they’ve been in years.
Testing and Treatment:
Examinations and tests from your doctor before undergoing BHRT may involve:
* Hormone level testing of the blood, saliva, and urine
* Review and analysis of personal and family medical history
* Consulting with hormone specialists
* Creating a tailored plan for the bio-identical hormones right for your situation, including recommended dietary supplements
* Dietary and nutritional plan
* Exercise and wellness programs
Hormone therapy is generally administered through skin patches, topical gels or creams, and tablets. Tablets will be prepared differently as they must first pass through the digestive system and be modified by the liver.
Monitoring Symptoms
Treating your hormonal needs may also require that doctors monitor your hormone levels throughout the treatment period. This is done through repeated testing and the use of modern technical diagnostic equipment. After starting a course of treatment, doctors are able to record and monitor its effect on your body and make any needed adjustment to your treatment. Your doctor will likely schedule periodic follow-up visits to ensure treatments are still effective and you’re sticking with the prescribed diet and other aspects of therapy.
Bio-identical and Natural Hormones
While bio-identical hormones are not superior or inferior to other forms of hormone treatment, they are perfectly safe. Their synthesis does allow specialists some level of customization for your current needs, according to hormone tests done on your blood. That is one of the chief benefits of BHRT.
DISCLAIMER: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information is not intended to be patient education, does not create any patient-physician relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment.