Many women struggle with hormonal imbalances for different reasons, especially after going through menopause. Hormonal disorders can often feel uncomfortable and lead to bone loss since the female hormone—estrogen—plays a pivotal role in protecting the bones from osteoporosis.
Hormonal imbalances can also cause hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause like vaginal itching, dryness, burning sensations, and even painful intercourse. Hormone replacement therapy has been proven to be an effective treatment to mitigate the effects of menopause, but many people understandably find it intimidating to pursue.
A Wonderful Alternative to Hormone Replacement Therapy
Conventional hormone replacement therapy (HTR) has potential side effects that may prevent patients from trying this option, but some alternatives can offer the same treatment minus its associated risks. Natural, plant-based hormone replacement therapy is rising in popularity as the next best treatment for hormonal imbalances or depletion, and all for good reasons too!
What is Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy?
As mentioned above, natural hormone replacement therapy derives hormones from plant-based substances to treat hormonal imbalances. With that in mind, there are two types of natural hormone replacement therapy: bioidentical and traditional natural.
A Basic Guide on Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)
Bioidentical hormones mimic the molecular structure of the human body, which means that bioidentical hormone replacement therapy uses plant estrogens to create synthetic hormones that function virtually the same way natural hormones do for people. In that regard, BHRT typically imitates the following natural hormones:
- Estriol is a form of hormone that is relatively weaker compared to others. Estriol is often associated with pregnancy, which is integral to the overall health of the mother and the baby.
- Progesterone is a hormone that increases during menstruation and pregnancy. It’s important to regularize a woman’s menstrual cycle, plus it is also responsible for preparing the uterus for pregnancy by thickening its lining.
- Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is an androgen hormone that promotes the production of other crucial hormones like estrogen and testosterone.
- Melatonin is another important hormone that is responsible for regulating the sleep-wake cycle.
A Basic Guide on Traditional Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy
On the other end of the spectrum is the traditional natural hormone replacement therapy, which aims to supplement hormonal depletion. Just like BHRT, it is derived from plans, and the supplements can treat various hormonal imbalances and their associated effects.
The Bottom Line: The Benefits and Risks of Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy
Hormone replacement therapy can cause side effects, and while natural hormone replacement therapy is believed to mitigate these uncomfortable symptoms, it’s still important to consult with a medical professional before reaping the benefits of this hormonal treatment.
Natural hormone replacement can be an effective way to supplement hormonal depletion, though it also helps to support the treatment by making healthy changes to your lifestyle moving forward.
How Can We Help You?
If your healthcare provider has allowed you to take bio-identical hormone therapy, it’s best to go to a place people trust. Infinity Medical Institute provides natural hormone replacement treatment plans for men and women using only bio-natural hormones, identical to our body’s natural chemistry. Learn more about how bio-identical hormones can benefit you today!
