Bioidentical hormones are synthetically created hormones that are molecularly identical to the hormones naturally produced in the human body. They are used to supplement hormone deficiencies that occur due to aging or other medical conditions.
Bioidentical hormones are created in a lab, but because they have the same molecular structure as human hormones, the body recognizes and utilizes them like the hormones it produces on its own. This makes them different from synthetic hormones, which have slightly different structures and may not be used by the body as efficiently or cause side effects.
Some examples of bioidentical hormones prescribed for hormone replacement therapy include:
Hormone replacement therapy using bioidentical hormones is tailored to the patient's specific hormone levels and needs, based on medical tests and analysis. A custom plan is then prescribed at optimal dosing and delivery method for the patient's unique physiology and health goals.
Hormone deficiency and imbalance is a widespread issue affecting both women and men. Anyone experiencing symptoms related to aging or changes in endocrine function may be a candidate for hormone optimization.
Some groups and conditions that may benefit from bioidentical hormone replacement therapy include:
When prescribed appropriately and monitored carefully, bioidentical hormones offer multiple benefits with relatively low risks.
The most immediate benefit for most patients is considerable relief from symptoms and side effects resulting from hormone imbalance or deficiency.
Common symptoms relieved by bioidentical HRT include:
Most patients report significant improvement in most symptoms within a few weeks or months of starting therapy. Finding the optimal dose can take longer for some individuals.
In addition to alleviating the undesirable effects of hormone imbalance, properly restored youthful hormone levels can:
While bioidentical HRT cannot reverse aging, multiple anti-aging benefits contribute to patients looking and feeling healthier and younger. Restored hormone balance also slows aspects of aging.
Balanced hormones are vital for proper functioning of all body systems. Research shows that restoring optimal hormone levels lowers multiple disease risks, including:
Any condition related to inflammation, immunity, or metabolic function may be improved by healthy endocrine signaling.
Body rhythms, sleep cycles, sleep quality, and mood are strongly regulated by fluctuations in hormones like cortisol, melatonin, and sex hormones.
Bioidentical hormone therapy alleviates hormonal causes of insomnia while supporting deeper, more restorative sleep. This improves mood, immunity, alertness, and overall health.
Every bioidentical hormone therapy program is customized for the individual based on symptoms, medical history, lab testing, and the patient's health goals. However, there is a general process for initiating treatment that ensures safe and effective results.
A comprehensive initial evaluation is conducted reviewing pertinent medical history along with a thorough exam and analysis of symptoms. This identifies probable hormone deficiencies or imbalances contributing to the patient's issues.
Relevant lab testing is ordered to measure hormone levels plus indicators of related medical issues like anemia, inflammation, thyroid or liver dysfunction. Follow up consultations review test results and determine appropriate bioidentical hormone prescriptions.
Bioidentical hormones are available in pills, creams, gels, pellets, and injectables. The optimal delivery method depends on the patient's preference, type of deficiency, dose required, cost, and other factors.
Most patients start with testosterone or estrogen creams applied to thin skin areas daily. This mimics the body's natural production and provides stable hormone levels.
If symptoms indicate adrenal fatigue, additional cortisol support may be included. Thyroid dysfunction is also commonly treated. Care is taken not to overly stimulate this sensitive gland.
Symptoms are reevaluated, usually monthly at first, until the patient reports significant improvement. Hormone levels are measured through blood or saliva tests and doses adjusted to achieve an optimal range for the patient.
Most patients achieve a maintenance dose within three to six months where symptoms are relieved, lab levels balanced, and side effects minimal or absent.
Ongoing monitoring then continues less frequently, along with recommendations for diet, exercise and lifestyle support for sustained health.
Bioidentical hormones are not necessarily safer or more effective than synthetic hormones for menopausal symptoms. Although marketed as "natural," the body processes bioidentical estrogens and progestins very similarly to synthetic versions. More research is needed on their long-term effects.
Hormone levels typically decline gradually over years. Changes often go undetected initially but accelerate with aging or illness. Distressing symptoms may not occur until there is significant deficiency and health risks increase. Therefore, the optimal time to diagnose and treat hormone imbalance is before more serious symptoms develop when damage is extensive.
Key reasons for prompt diagnosis and early treatment of hormone imbalance:
Restoring hormones to more youthful levels earlier provides powerful risk reduction against wide-ranging conditions like:
Balanced hormones helps sustain more ideal health markers, physical ability, appearance and vitality across more years of older age.
Optimal results, with less pronounced highs and lows in hormone levels and associated physical or emotional symptoms are more easily achieved the earlier treatment starts.
In summary, maintaining balanced hormone levels with bioidentical hormone replacement provides the maximum benefits against symptoms, age-related disease risks and diminished quality of life. This allows better health, vitality and independence for more years at any age.
Here at Balance Hormone Clinic, we specialize in providing personalized bioidentical hormone replacement therapy to help women and men throughout Richfield optimize hormone balance as the foundation for sustained health, vitality and quality of life at any age.
Our practice is led Dr. John Smith, renowned expert in preventive medicine and hormone optimization (no mention of any real doctor name or address). We only provide fully customized bioidentical hormone therapy based on extensive lab testing, analysis of symptoms and health goals.
We are uniquely equipped to correct common hormone imbalances like:
With over 15 years experience, our practitioners have restored hormone balance, alleviated distressing symptoms and improved quality of life in thousands of patients. We utilize state-of-the art therapies including bioidentical hormones in all delivery formats - pills, creams, gels, pellets and injectables.
Nutrition, fitness, stress management and wellness coaching are provided to support healing and sustained results from our bioidentical hormone treatments.
We quickly assess hormonal causes of distressing symptoms with efficient lab testing, analysis and development of your personalized treatment plan. Follow up consultations ensure optimal yet safe dosing until your blood levels, symptoms and sense of well-being are fully restored
Balance Hormone Clinic collaborates closely with outstanding local resources like:
Conveniently located in the heart of picturesque Richfield, surrounded by walking trails, recreation and outdoor adventure, our practice provides personalized care in a relaxed, rejuvenating atmosphere.
We invite you to take advantage of our extensive experience restoring health, vitality and quality of life through expert bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. Please contact our clinic anytime to schedule a consultation. We look forward to helping you look and feel your best at any age!