People of both genders experience changes in hormone levels as they get older. These changes can cause obesity, fatigue, brain fog, headaches, joint pain, diabetes, and heart disease.
Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), an alternative to conventional HRT that uses natural hormones instead of synthetic ones, might help counter these conditions.
What Is Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy is a way of replacing hormones that are missing in your body.
Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy is a treatment for men and women at or past menopause. It replaces the hormones that decline due to aging and certain medical conditions.
How Do Bio-Identical Hormones Work?
Bio-identical hormones are natural hormone replacements that are identical to the hormones that your body produces naturally. They are available in several forms, including sublingual drops, transdermal gel, transdermal cream, vaginal tablets and pellets, and intramuscular injections.
Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy Benefits
Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy has several benefits. Some of these benefits include:
Less Weight Gain
By balancing hormones through bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, you can lose weight and maintain a healthy weight.
Better Sleep Quality
Hormones are responsible for regulating sleep patterns. Studies show that women who take bio-identical hormone replacement therapy have a better sleep quality.
Improved Metabolism
Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy helps improve metabolism and reduce calorie storage.
Improved Energy Levels
Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy can help increase energy levels, reduce fatigue, and boost your mood.
Improved Memory and Cognitive Function
Hormone levels drop significantly after menopause. Studies show that this decline in hormones can harm memory and cognitive function. However, women who take bio-identical hormone replacement therapy have improved memory, attention span, and cognitive function.
Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy Risks
Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy is not without risks. It comes with some risks that you should consider before starting treatment. Some of the dangers of BHRT include:
Infections
Most of the time, bio-identical hormone replacement therapy should not cause infections. However, the hormones can cause fungal infections in women susceptible to them.
Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are common in women over 50. Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy can worsen these fibroids, making them more prominent and painful.
Breast Cancer
Some studies show that bio-identical hormones may increase your risk of developing breast cancer. However, other studies show that bio-identical hormones can reduce the risk of breast cancer. More research is needed to determine the exact effects.
Breast Tenderness
Bio-identical hormones stimulate breast tissue and cause breast tenderness, especially in women who are still menstruating.
Cardiovascular Problems
Some doctors warn that women who take BHRT can develop cardiovascular problems. However, this is uncommon. Women at risk of developing cardiovascular issues need to consult their doctor before starting BHRT.
Reduced Levels of HDL Cholesterol
Some research shows that BHRT can reduce your levels of HDL cholesterol. HDL cholesterol helps prevent cardiovascular conditions and heart disease.
Conclusion
Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy is a good option for women at or beyond menopause. It may be a good alternative if you don’t want to use conventional hormones. Be sure to discuss your risks and benefits with your provider to make the best choice for you.
At Infinity Medical Institute, we provide natural hormone replacement treatment plans for men and women that use only bio-natural hormones, identical to the body’s biological chemistry. Our approach to wellness is based on meeting people where they are in their personal life and developing an individualized plan of action in and around nutrition, supplementation, and lifestyle. If you are looking for bio-natural hormone replacement therapy in Tampa, FL, contact us now! We look forward to meeting you.