Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Miami in the body control most of the basic bodily functions. They serve as an internal communication system between cells all over the body. They coordinate everything in the body, from digestion and growth to appetite, immune function, mood, and libido. When the hormones are out of balance, it can have a big impact on your health and well-being. It can hinder some bodily functions and growth.
What is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Bioidentical hormones are manmade hormones that are generated from plant estrogens. They are chemically identical to the hormones produced by the human body.
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is a natural solution used to treat men and women when their hormone levels become unbalanced or drop. It is most commonly used to ease symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. It may also be used to improve symptoms of cancer treatment or to treat conditions such as insulin resistance, adrenal and thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, and fibromyalgia.
Components of BHRT
Some bioidentical hormones are made by drug companies. Compounded bioidentical hormones are custom made by a pharmacy, according to a doctor’s orders. This process is known as compounding. It generally involves ingredients that are being combined or altered to meet the needs of an individual.
Only bioidenticals match the body’s molecular makeup. Both bioidentical and synthetic hormones are synthesized in a laboratory. Depending on your specific hormonal needs, you may be prescribed bioidentical hormones containing estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, thyroid hormones.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved some forms of manufactured bioidentical hormones, including bioidentical estriol. Bioidentical estriol is a weak form of estrogen and progesterone. However, the FDA hasn’t approved any custom-compounded bioidentical hormones.
Benefits of BHRT
BHRT is typically used as people grow older and hormone levels drop or unbalanced. It is particularly used for women who are in perimenopause or menopause. It’s used to increase the levels of the hormones that have dropped. It is also used to improve moderate to severe menopause symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweat, mood changes, memory loss, weight gain, sleep issues, loss of interest in sex or pain during sex.
Hormone replacement therapy may also help to reduce your risk for diabetes, tooth loss, and cataracts. Some research has shown that it can help improve skin thickness, hydration, and elasticity, and even reduce wrinkles.
BHRT has been shown to be effective in improving the general well-being and quality of life of individuals who have undergone treatments that affect their estrogen levels. People with cancer who underwent bioidentical hormone replacement were a relief from treatment-related symptoms such as migraines, incontinence, low libido, and insomnia.
How to take BHRT
BHRT comes in a variety of forms including creams, injections, implanted pellets, patches, and gels
First talk to your doctor about which form is best for you before taking it. Once you begin BHRT, you will be regularly monitored so as to evaluate your body’s response. The FDA advises against monitoring your hormone levels via blood and saliva tests. This is because it only shows your hormone levels at a particular moment in time and can vary widely throughout the day.
Side effects and risks of BHRT
Many people cannot take BHRT or any form of hormone replacement for different medical and health reasons. The risks and potential side effects may vary among women depending on their health history.
Bioidentical hormones are said to be safer and more effective than traditional HRT because they are identical in structure to those produced in the body. However, these claims have not been confirmed by large-scale, reputable studies. The FDA advises patients to be cautious when using compounded products.
Research has shown that hormone replacement therapy, in general, may increase the risk for certain conditions and diseases including blood clots, stroke, gallbladder disease, heart disease, breast cancer.
There may also be side effects, particularly at the beginning of the treatment as your body adjusts to the hormones. Common side effects of BHRT may include:
- Acne
- Bloating
- Weight gain
- Fatigue
- Mood swings
- Increased facial hair in women
Cost of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
Bioidentical hormone therapy is an affordable option for most individuals. It combines a comprehensive custom treatment plan, with high quality compounded ingredients and a complete follow-up patient care.
An initial consultation with your healthcare provider is necessary to review medical history, symptoms, health goals and lab results.
The average treatment plan costs vary from $250-$500 per month depending on lab costs, insurance eligibility, prescriptions, and supplements.
Treatment that includes creams, gels, pills, and patches ranges from $45-$150, monthly per prescription. It ranges from $195-$350 per insertion.
