What are Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)?
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) provides replacement hormones to alleviate uncomfortable or inconvenient symptoms associated with andropause and menopause in both men and women. The primary aim of BHRT is to reduce or alleviate symptoms linked to hormone loss. After reviewing a patient’s symptoms, the physician prescribes an appropriate amount of hormones and monitors BHRT to ensure the patient’s improvement and safety.
What Symptoms Are Caused by
Declining Bioidentical Hormones Levels?
While common symptoms are associated with menopause, each woman undergoes a unique transition during this life stage. The decline in hormone production, which occurs as a woman ages, can lead to unwanted symptoms. These may include:
Thinning hair on the scalp
Night sweats
Hot flashes
Vaginal dryness
Painful intercourse
Urinary incontinence
Facial hair growth
Mood swings
Irritability
Increased risk for osteoporosis
Weight gain
Fatigue
Difficulty concentrating
Lack of interest in sex
What Types of BHRT Are Available?
Moreover, BHRT, utilized to address most symptoms associated with hormonal decline, can be prescribed in various forms, including pills, sprays, creams, gels, and patches. It is widely regarded as the most effective method for treating and preventing menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal discomfort, including dryness and itching during intercourse. Additionally, vaginal estrogen-based creams are available to alleviate symptoms such as vaginal dryness and painful intercourse, and they may offer some relief from urinary incontinence. However, they do not provide the same level of relief for symptoms like night sweats, moodiness, hot flashes, or osteoporosis as other forms of BHRT.
What are bioidentical hormones?
Bio-identical hormone therapy involves replacing hormones naturally produced by the body. Many of these bioidentical hormones are manufactured in specialty pharmacies known as compounding pharmacies. While some consider these compounded hormones to be natural and healthier, regulatory bodies do not regulate their dosages. Consequently, women may not receive consistent hormone doses with these compounded therapies, which can potentially be more harmful. Only a few bioidentical hormones are produced by regulated pharmaceutical companies. Providers at San Francisco Women’s Healthcare can evaluate these therapies and prescribe suitable individual hormone replacements.
