Balanced hormones are critical for building muscle, burning fat, and maintaining your energy levels, bone density, immune system, and brain function. Both men and women experience changes in hormone levels as they get older. A decrease in or imbalance of critical hormones due to aging can lead to obesity, fatigue, brain fog, headaches, joint pain, diabetes, heart disease, and other issues. At Balance of Life Clinic, we provide bioidentical hormone replacement therapy for women and men as an alternative to traditional HRT.
What Are Bioidentical Hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are derived from plant estrogens and are identical in molecular structure and function to the hormones produced by your body. Hormones used in traditional hormone replacement therapy are made from pregnant horses’ urine and other synthetic hormones.
Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are the most commonly replicated hormones used in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) and are believed to have fewer side effects than those used in traditional HRT. Bioidentical hormones may come in the form of pills, patches, creams, gels, and injections. While bioidentical hormone replacement therapy for men and women is common, the specific hormones and dosages vary depending on the individual patient’s needs.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy for Men and Women: What’s the Difference?
In men, bioidentical hormones are typically used to address testosterone deficiency, a condition known as hypogonadism. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) using bioidentical testosterone can help ease symptoms of low testosterone, such as low libido, fatigue, muscle weakness, and mood disturbances. The dosage and delivery method of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy for men depends on their specific needs and is determined based on factors such as age, symptoms, and overall health.
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy for women is commonly used to manage menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood changes. Estrogen and progesterone levels usually begin to drop between ages 45 and 55 and can happen earlier in some women. Bioidentical estrogen is administered orally, trans-dermally, or vaginally, while bioidentical progesterone is typically a topical cream. The dosage and combination of hormones vary, depending on factors such as menopausal stage, specific symptoms, and personal health considerations.
Benefits of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy for Women
BHRT can be beneficial for women as they age, particularly for those in menopause or perimenopause. Because BHRT increases the levels of the hormones that have dropped, it can greatly improve moderate to severe symptoms in women, including:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Mood changes
- Depression
- Memory loss
- Brain fog
- Weight gain
- Insomnia and sleep issues
- Vaginal dryness
- Low libido
In addition to helping alleviate these symptoms, as an alternative option to traditional hormone replacement therapy, BHRT may also reduce the risk of diabetes, tooth loss, and cataracts. I can also improve the thickness, hydration, and elasticity of your skin.
Bioidentical hormone therapy has been shown to be effective in improving the general well-being and quality of life of women who have undergone treatment for certain types of cancers. It may also be used to help treat thyroid disorders, low sexual desire, premenstrual syndrome, and PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder).
Benefits Of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy for Men
Many men dismiss the signs of hormonal imbalance as normal signs of aging. However, men who suffer from low testosterone can experience symptoms such as weight gain, depression, sexual dysfunction, irregular sleep patterns, mood swings, and fatigue. Men who have used bioidentical hormone therapy report benefits such as:
- Increased energy
- Increased muscular strength
- Lower body fat
- Maintenance of lean body mass
- Improved mood
- Reduced anxiety
- Boosted sexual performance
Risks And Side Effects Of BHRT
Although bioidentical hormone replacement therapy for men and women may come with some risks and side effects, research studies have shown that BHRT may have fewer side effects and negative outcomes when compared to therapy with synthetic hormones. It’s vital to keep in mind that whether BHRT is appropriate for you depends on your specific needs and circumstances.
Talk to Your Doctor and Our Providers About Whether BHRT is Right for You
It’s important to talk with your doctor and seek bioidentical hormone replacement therapy from a knowledgeable healthcare professional. Our integrative medicine providers are experienced in hormone replacement therapy. They perform a thorough examination, discuss your health history and symptoms with you, and create an individualized treatment plan that complements your traditional healthcare treatment. Our whole-body approach to healing through alternative medicine and integrated health can help stimulate the body’s self-healing mechanisms and help you feel your best.
Learn More About Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy for Men and Women
At Balance of Life Clinic, we’re dedicated to taking a proactive and preventive approach to your health so you can enjoy life to the fullest. For more information about bioidentical hormone replacement therapy in Medina, OH contact us at 330-764-4242 330-764-4242 or toll-free at 877-764-4242 877-764-4242. We’re proud to serve patients throughout northeast Ohio.
