Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
The correct hormones, at correct doses, in a dosage form most appropriate
– this is compounded bio identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT). The phrase “bio identical” was coined to distinguish this form of hormone therapy from other forms of hormone therapy that have well-documented risks. Synthetic drugs like Premarin (conjugated equine estrogen) and Provera (medroxyprogesterone) were once the drugs of choice for managing hormonal imbalances. Today, they are rarely prescribed due to poor outcomes from a major medical trial called the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI). The trial was stopped early due a trend towards increased risk of breast cancer and cardiovascular disease. Though a lifesaving trial the results from the Women’s Health Initiative are often misinterpreted to include all hormones. This includes those identical to the bodies hormones which are the hormones used in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. Because of this, many women struggle to find treatment options or even providers willing to have a conversation about available treatment options. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy involves the replacement of the bodies naturally recognized hormones. Doses are carefully chosen based off objective lab testing and symptoms. An entirely different treatment approach than synthetic agent like Premarin and Provera, the goal of bio identical hormone replacement is to restore balance between the major hormones. Though, bio identical hormone replacement has many applications let’s look at its most conventional uses.
Perimenopause
Perimenopause refers to the years of a woman’s life as she approached menopause. Its characterized by fluctuating hormone levels, particularly progesterone. During this transitional time period, many women state they simply “feel like a stranger in their own body” or are “in a constant battle with their body.” Bio identical hormone replacement with the bodies naturally recognized hormones helps to address these symptoms, restoring the endocrine system’s delicate balance and complex interplay.
Post-menopause
Menopausal symptoms vary from person to person, the most well-known being hot flashes and night sweats. Linked to declining levels of major hormones, particularly estrogen, symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, cognitive changes, incontinence, vaginal dryness, mood swings, depression, and anxiety are common. Declining levels of estrogen are also linked to osteoporosis and are thought to contribute to a women’s increased risk of cardiovascular disease following menopause. The goal of bio identical hormones in a post-menopausal treatment setting is to manage symptoms and prevent degenerative disease. The correct hormones, at the correct doses are determined by careful collaboration between a provider, a patient, and a compounding pharmacist.
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Maida Pharmacy Compounding and Wellness offers personalizes consultations on bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. Click here for information on our Hormone Wellness Program.