Fluctuations in hormone levels are a natural part of aging. Both men and women can benefit from bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, but there are important factors that should be considered to find out if it’s right for you. At Balance of Life Clinic in Medina, Ohio, our integrative medicine providers do a thorough examination, assess your health history and symptoms, and discuss whether BHRT is an option as part of your comprehensive treatment plan.
Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is designed to treat symptoms of menopause in women and andropause in men. During menopause, women’s estrogen and progesterone levels drop significantly. Men experience lower levels of testosterone as they age as well. The hormones used in traditional hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are derived from pregnant horses’ urine and other synthetic hormones. Bio-identical hormones are made from compounds found in plants. The structures and functions of these hormones are identical to those made by the body. Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are the most commonly replicated hormones used in bio-identical hormone replacement therapy.
Low testosterone levels in men can lead to fatigue, weight gain, sexual dysfunction, sleep problems, and other issues. Bio-identical hormone therapy raises hormone levels and improves these symptoms. Bio-identical hormones can be administered in different forms, including pills, creams, gels, patches, transdermal pellets, and injections.
Although BHRT is believed to have fewer side effects than traditional HRT, some people should not take any form of hormone replacement therapy. It’s vital to discuss the risks and benefits of bio-identical hormone replacement therapy with your doctor and integrative medical provider before starting treatment. For some patients who have a higher risk of or suffer from cardiovascular disease, blood clotting disorders, stroke, breast cancer and other conditions, BHRT may not be an option.
If you are a candidate for BHRT, your health care provider will closely monitor your hormone levels to ensure your dosage is effective, and adjust it as needed. Although results vary from person to person, BHRT has improved the quality of life for millions of women and men.
In addition to easing the symptoms of menopause and perimenopasue for women, bio-identical hormone replacement therapy may improve symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, heart disease, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, PMS, PPMD, low sexual desire, and other conditions. BHRT also enhances the elasticity of your skin and can help improve energy levels, mood, concentration, and memory. In men, BHRT can help restore sex drive and sexual function, boost energy, reduce body fat and increase muscle mass and bone density, improve your mood, and restore healthy sleep patterns.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of low hormone levels, you don’t have to suffer alone. BHRT can improve your overall health and well-being, enhance your relationships, and make you feel like yourself again. Bio-identical hormone therapy should be given under the care of an experienced health care professional. Talk to your doctor and integrative medicine providers to find out if it’s a beneficial treatment option for you.
At Balance of Life Clinic, we’re dedicated to taking a whole-body approach to our patients’ health and helping them feel their best. To learn more about BHRT and other services we offer, contact us at 330-764-4242 or toll-free at 877-764-4242 to schedule an appointment. We serve patients in Medina and throughout northeast Ohio.
3985 Medina Rd. Ste 250
Medina, OH 44256-5968
Phone: 330-764-4242330-764-4242
Toll Free: 877-764-4242877-764-4242
Fax: 330-764-3196
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday: 8 -12 IV Therapy only by appointment
*We are not open on holidays.
Monday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Phone: 330-695-2137330-695-2137
