Understanding Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)

Are you experiencing low energy, irritability, reduced libido, mood swings or even night sweats and unexplained weight gain?  It’s not your imagination and quite possibly, your hormones may be to blame.

Hormonal decline and imbalances are part of the aging process and can even begin in early adulthood, but it does not have to be the undoing of someone’s life as they once knew it. Hormone replacement has an array of benefits that can renew one’s zest for living. 

The word “bioidentical” refers to substances that are structurally and chemically identical to what the body produces naturally. In the case of BHRT these are derived from a plant base, typically soy or yam. 

BHRT will primarily consist of specified doses of testosterone, estradiol (estrogen) & progesterone (female patients). Since both males and females produce these three hormones naturally, it is essential that they are treated with varying doses based on their symptoms and their current hormone levels indicated in a blood test result. 

Hormone Replacement Therapy is known to elevate an individual’s quality of life. The following are some examples:

• Alleviate symptoms of menopause and andropause (male menopause)- BHRT can reduce hot flashes & night sweats, mood swings & aggression, headaches & migraines. It can also help with unwanted weight gain, bone loss, sleep problems, vaginal dryness, erectile dysfunction (ED), and more.
• Enhance cardiovascular health- BHRT may help lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. This can be especially true for men struggling with erectile difficulties as ED is an indicator of a blood flow issue and could be considered a precursor to cardiovascular problems and risk of heart attack. 
• Improve metabolic health- BHRT can regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. 
• Increase muscle mass and strength: Testosterone is essential for muscle building and maintaining strength. BHRT can help restore declining testosterone production in men and women, bringing them to appropriate levels. 
• Improve bone health: Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density. BHRT helps reduce the risk of fractures as well as prevent osteoporosis.
• Improve cognitive function: Estrogen and testosterone support brain health and cognitive abilities. BHRT has been known to improve memory, focus, and mood. 
• Enhance sexual function: BHRT restores hormone levels which contributes to an increased libido. It can also be used to simultaneously treat couples and bring partners' function and desire to levels that match each other.
• Reduce fatigue and increase energy levels: BHRT can help regulate levels that affect metabolism and energy output. 
• Improve overall wellness: BHRT improves mood, sleep, and quality of life by restoring hormones to their proper balance. 

The hormone medication itself used in BHRT treatments is available in varying forms such as topical creams, injections, pills, patches and even pellets which are inserted into the hip or flank area. Depending on which form of hormone replacement medication an individual selects, the dosing and frequency of dosing will vary, as well as the way the body adapts to the treatments. Bloodwork should be done periodically to monitor the amount of hormone levels in a patient and determine the frequency of the treatment protocol.

 A visit with a Medical Practitioner specially trained in hormone replacement therapy is essential to discovering what specific options are available for each individual. An example of a drawback of BHRT could potentially be its cost. Currently it is not a service typically covered by medical insurance due to being considered non-essential. Provider visits, lab work, and the hormone medication itself present separate expenses that should be considered. HSA and FSA are, however, considered excellent options for patients who have these available funds, as well as interest-free financing options. There can be other considerations to ponder, such as fertility, that can impact a BHRT patient and should all be discussed with a Medical Provider who has knowledge and credentials in this specialty.

Overall, BHRT presents many benefits and should be considered by anyone experiencing the previously listed symptoms regardless of his or her age. Many people as young as 20’s and 30’s have greatly improved their quality of life by undergoing this treatment.

At Optimal Health and Wellness Center, we have caring and experienced Providers, including Biote certified specialists, who are able to specifically address this subject of concern for both males and females. 

https://optimalhealthandwellness.com/services/

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Optimal Health and Wellness Center