Bio-identical Hormone Therapy

Bio-identical hormones

Bio-identical hormones are derived from plant sources that have the same biochemical structure as our own natural hormones. Because they are identical from a structural standpoint they function in a similar fashion and do not interfere with, displace or replace our natural hormones. Because of this, their action is gentler and associated with less adverse affects compared to traditional synthetic hormones.  Why have you not heard of B-HRT as an option for managing your menopausal symptoms?  Well, one major reason is that these plant based alternatives can not be patented and mass manufactured by pharmaceutical companies.  Keep in mind that  majority of the medical research performed  in our country is funded by pharmaceutical manufacturers. On the flip side of the coin is that the research on this type of  hormonal replacement is in it’s infancy and long term studies are still lacking. The studies that are present argue that B-HRT is a safer, more natural alternative to synthetic hormone therapy.

Bio-identical Estrogens

Our bodies make 3 main types of estrogens.

• Estradiol is the most abundant estrogen in young women and has been associated with a time of optimal physical and mental ability.
• Estriol is the weakest of all of the estrogens and is found in its highest concentration in the placenta of pregnant women. Estriol vaginal cream has been shown to improve the mucosal lining in menopausal women.
• Estrone is the dominant estrogen in the aging woman and has been linked to breast cancer.

Seveal examples of common forms of bio-identical estrogens are the FDA approved pharmaceutical forms of estradiol such as Estrace and Vivelle patch or Bi-est and Tri-est which are prepared by a compounding pharmacist.

Progesterone

A variety of “natural” progesterone preparations are available on the market. Many of the non-prescription bought progesterone creams do not contain any activated progesterone.  Because of this, I recommend using the prescription strength progesterone prescribed by your health care provider and compounded by a special pharmacist to best meet your unique needs.  Do not confuse progesterone with it’s synthetic counterpart, progestin.  Unlike bio-identical progesterone, progestins have more potential adverse affects including; breast tenderness, acne, swelling, weight changes, nausea, increased risk for blood clots and so on.  Transdermal progesterone creams are becoming increasingly popular for balancing hormones in women that are estrogen dominant.

 B-HRT as an option for achieving hormonal balance?

Feel free to share your experience with bio-identical hormone therapy.