Bioidentical Hormones
Hormones are complex messenger molecules carrying a message of instruction from one site of the body to another (the receptor site), via the blood. Hormone and receptor sites are like a lock and key; they are highly specific. Bioidentical hormones are hormonal substances, identical to those normally present in the human body. This means that, in every respect, the molecule of the hormone is the same as the human hormone.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) is usually presented as gels or creams, facilitating direct access to the blood stream without having to first pass through the liver. This ensures that the liver does not chemically modify the hormones prior to them reaching their target areas. In contrast, tablets or capsules taken by mouth must first pass through the liver.
It is critical to use dosages reflecting natural circumstances and cycles. Bioidentical hormones are most useful as part of a comprehensive, integrative approach to wellness.
This strategy will yield the best possible results for the patient. Testing hormone levels before and during treatment is an important part of tailoring the particular hormones and dosages to suit the individual patient.
Bioidentical Hormones
Hormones are complex messenger molecules carrying a message of instruction from one site of the body to another (the receptor site), via the blood. Hormone and receptor sites are like a lock and key; they are highly specific. Bioidentical hormones are hormonal substances, identical to those normally present in the human body. This means that, in every respect, the molecule of the hormone is the same as the human hormone.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) is usually presented as gels or creams, facilitating direct access to the blood stream without having to first pass through the liver. This ensures that the liver does not chemically modify the hormones prior to them reaching their target areas. In contrast, tablets or capsules taken by mouth must first pass through the liver.
It is critical to use dosages reflecting natural circumstances and cycles. Bioidentical hormones are most useful as part of a comprehensive, integrative approach to wellness.
This strategy will yield the best possible results for the patient. Testing hormone levels before and during treatment is an important part of tailoring the particular hormones and dosages to suit the individual patient.
Biosimilar and Bioidentical hormones can be used for the following:
In Women
- Premenstrual Syndrome
- Menopausal Symptoms
- Hot Flushes
- Insomnia
- Mood Swings
- Libido Problems/ Lack of Sexual Desire
- Bladder Symptoms
- Vaginal Discomfort /Pain / Dryness
- Hormone Imbalances
- Severe Energy Loss During Periods
- Pain During Intercourse
- Brain Fog
Biosimilar and Bioidentical hormones can be used for the following:
In Women
- Premenstrual Syndrome
- Menopausal Symptoms
- Hot Flushes
- Insomnia
- Mood Swings
- Libido Problems/ Lack of Sexual Desire
- Bladder Symptoms
- Vaginal Discomfort /Pain / Dryness
- Hormone Imbalances
- Severe Energy Loss During Periods
- Pain During Intercourse
- Brain Fog
In Men
- Loss Of Libido
- Erectile Function Problems
- Loss Of Muscle Strength
- Fatigue And Tiredness
- Excessive Sweating
- Mood Problems
- Brain Fog and Cognitive Function Problems
More About Hormones
Bio-identical hormones are in use since 1982. Jonathan Wright MD reports that a 48-year-old woman seeking treatment for menopausal symptoms approached him: she wanted him to prescribe natural hormones for her. At the time, only patented synthetic hormones were available. The commonly used one was Premarin® consisting of horse urine estrogens. This lady declined the Premarin prescription. As a result, Dr. Wright got to work on the optimal ratios for bio-identical hormone therapy in women; and he based these on the amounts of each of the three primary oestrogens: oestrone, oestradiol and oestriol normally produced by healthy reproductive-phase human females.
In women varying blends of oestrone, oestradiol and oestriol (the three most important human oestrogens) are used along with bio-identical progesterone – the use of progesterone is essential. Bio-identical testosterone is also usually part of the combination. The blend must be individualised for the particular patient based on clinical response and monitoring of hormone levels.
Testosterone (in much smaller doses then the male) is essential to normal sexual functioning and maintenance of a healthy libido along with strong and healthy skin, muscle and bones.
The use of Bio-identical testosterone replacement in men is growing and there is much by way of observational study and clinical research to support it. As well as helping mood and libido problems, bio-identical testosterone assists in the maintenance of physical strength and general emotional well being.
Bio-identical testosterone replacement in andropausal males may act as a mood elevator and is associated with a significant improvement in cognitive function and verbal memory.
Contrary to conventional medical wisdom, testosterone may in fact benefit heart and circulatory health.
Despite its usefulness, just like any other treatment, bio-identical testosterone works best as part of an individualised patient-specific wellness plan.
Proper medical supervision and check-ups including regular blood testing, is an important part of maximising patient benefits and minimising any potential downside from bio-identical testosterone replacement therapy.