Our hormones can become unbalanced as we age, leading to uncomfortable symptoms and health conditions. Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) has emerged as a solution to help restore balance and improve the quality of life.
In this blog post, we will explore what bioidentical hormones are, the benefits of BHRT, and how Pure Body Health can help.
What Are Bioidentical Hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are chemically identical to the natural hormones the human body produces. Derived from plant sources, they are designed to mimic the molecular structure of your body’s hormones. This is in contrast to synthetic hormones, which are made from artificial sources and do not have the same structure as natural hormones.
The difference in structure between bioidentical and synthetic hormones can significantly impact how well your body metabolizes and responds to the treatment.
Several studies have shown the effectiveness of BHRT, particularly in the management of menopause symptoms. Women using bioidentical hormones have reported significant improvements in hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness.
BHRT is also very effective for men, particularly those who have low testosterone. As men age, their testosterone levels naturally start to decline. By replacing those lost hormones, BHRT can help restore energy levels, improve libido, and reduce body fat.
For more information, read Men’s Hormone Optimization.
How Is BHRT Administered?
Bioidentical hormone preparations come in various forms, including injections, tablets/troches, pellets, topical creams, and vaginal creams. Each form has advantages, and the choice will depend on individual needs and preferences.
At Pure Body Health, we customize formulations to each patient’s specific needs, carefully monitor your hormone levels, and adjust your treatment plan to provide the lowest dose of hormones necessary for optimal results.
Read Women’s Hormone Optimization Therapy for more information.
What Causes Hormonal Imbalance?
Various factors can contribute to hormonal imbalances, including aging, stress, exposure to environmental toxins, and certain health conditions. Menopause is a leading cause of hormonal imbalance in women, characterized by a decline in estrogen and progesterone levels that triggers uncomfortable symptoms. In men, declining testosterone levels due to aging is the most common cause of hormonal imbalances.
Hormonal imbalance in women can manifest in various ways, with symptoms differing among individuals. Here are some commonly experienced symptoms:
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Fatigue and lack of energy
- Mood swings and irritability
- Difficulty concentrating and memory lapses
- Decreased sex drive
- Vaginal dryness
- Sleep disturbances
- Weight gain, particularly around the abdomen
- Changes in skin and hair texture
- Frequent headaches or migraines
Hormone imbalances in men can lead to a range of symptoms, including:
- Decreased muscle mass and strength
- Increased body fat, particularly around the waist
- Reduced libido or erectile dysfunction
- Mood swings and depression
- Fatigue and lack of energy
- Difficulty concentrating
- Loss of body hair or hair thinning
- Poor sleep or insomnia
Am I a Candidate for BHRT?
Anyone experiencing symptoms of hormonal imbalance can benefit from BHRT. Individuals with certain health conditions that cause hormonal imbalances, like endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome, may also find relief through BHRT.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, schedule a consultation with Pure Body Health. Dr. Scott Maymon and Dr. Sarah Stone provide specialized testing and consultations to help identify hormonal imbalances and manage them with appropriate treatments.
What Are the Side Effects of BHRT?
Like any treatment, Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) can also cause certain side effects, although they are typically less severe than those associated with synthetic hormones. It is important to note that side effects are usually temporary and subside as your body adjusts to the new level of hormones. Side effects may include:
- Bloating
- Mood swings
- Acne
- Weight gain
- Increased facial hair in women
- Breast tenderness
- Spotting in women
- Tiredness or fatigue
- Headaches
- Increased blood sugar levels
We rarely see these side effects as our approach includes physiologically appropriate dosing to balance hormones, minimize risks, and reduce any potential side effects. At Pure Body Health, we ensure each patient’s health and comfort by offering personalized treatment plans and ongoing support throughout the BHRT process.
Discover the Benefits of BHRT
If you believe you may be experiencing a hormonal imbalance, trust the experts at Pure Body Health. Through a comprehensive approach that incorporates functional medicine, naturopathy, and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), we can help you restore hormonal balance and regain your overall well-being.
If you are searching for a women’s hormone clinic or bioidentical hormone replacement therapy in Phoenix, AZ, call Pure Body Health at (480) 427-0442 or complete the online booking form. Don’t let hormonal imbalances hold you back!
Frequently Asked Questions
The time frame for bioidentical hormones to take effect depends on the type of treatment and individual circumstances. Generally, it takes up to three months for hormone levels to reach an optimal balance. Some women report dramatic improvements after just a few weeks of treatment.
While bioidentical hormones cannot reverse the effects of aging, they can help reduce the signs and symptoms of menopause, leading to improved physical and mental health and an overall feeling of youth and vitality.
The impact of bioidentical hormones on belly fat can vary from woman to woman. While some individuals may experience a decrease in belly fat upon starting bioidentical hormone therapy, others may not observe any significant changes. The outcomes depend on the unique circumstances and characteristics of each individual. You will have better weight loss results if you combine BHRT with a balanced diet and regular physical activity.