Bioidentical Hormones
The goal for healthy aging is to help create a hormonal balance—often replacing depleted or low hormones such as testosterone for aging men and estrogen for aging women.
Hormone Ergonomics
Hormone ergonomics refers to the science of optimizing the balance and function of hormones within the body. Just as traditional ergonomics focuses on the physical environment and movement to enhance efficiency and prevent injury, hormone ergonomics emphasizes how lifestyle, environmental factors, and daily habits influence the hormonal world.
The precise match of bioidentical hormones makes them a more natural and effective option for many people. Many patients notice improvements in 2-6 weeks, but it can take several months to achieve full balance.
What Are Bioidentical Hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are molecularly identical to those produced in our own body. The key distinction here is that their molecular structure is a perfect match with the hormones the body makes, meaning they fit the same receptor sites and function in exactly the same way. Synthetic hormones are often molecularly different and may not mimic the body’s natural hormones as closely, potentially causing different side effects.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) is commonly used for difficulty to build muscle, PMS S/S, perimenopause, menopause, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, sleep issues, and adrenal fatigue. Bioidentical hormones can be prescribed and administered in various forms, each offering different advantages depending on the patient’s specific needs.
FAQs
Answering your most asked questions so you can be prepared.
What conditions can bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) help with?
BHRT is commonly used for difficulty to build muscle, PMS S/S, perimenopause, menopause, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, sleep issues, and adrenal fatigue.
How are bioidentical hormones different from synthetic hormones?
Synthetic hormones are often molecularly different and may not mimic the body’s natural hormones as closely, potentially causing different side effects.
Do I need testing before starting BHRT?
Yes, testing (blood, saliva, or urine) is critical to determine your hormonal levels and create a personalized treatment plan. Advanced tools like the DUTCH Comprehensive Hormone Panel can help understand your unique hormonal blueprint. This test looks at everything from estrogen & progesterone levels to how well your body detoxifies & clears hormones.
How are bioidentical hormones administered?
Common delivery methods include creams, subcutaneous injections, gels, pills, patches, sublingual drops, and pellets (BioTE).
What are the benefits of Testosterone?
Low levels in both sexes are associated with reduced bone density, libido, and lean muscle mass. Low levels in men are associated with increased cardiovascular risk.
One of the big myths is that only men need testosterone. Frequently, women need testosterone too. The same signs that are seen in men are also seen in women. Having your testosterone checked as part of any yearly exam is always recommended.
Testosterone helps with:
- Concentration and memory
- Sleep
- Anemia
- Decreases body fat
- Increasing lean muscle mass
- Increased physical or work performance
- Low bone mineral density
- Elevated mood
- Increased sexual desire and function
- Increased energy, motivation, initiative, and self-confidence
What are the benefits of Estrogen?
This hormone has over 400 functions in the body. Hormone replacement therapy helps with relief of symptoms, prevention of memory loss, heart health, bone production, and growth and repair. Medically, natural estrogen means that it is the same chemical structure that you are born with.
What are the benefits of Progesterone?
This hormone plays a large role in the menstrual cycle for women. It does quite a bit in the body and is needed sometimes before menopause even happens. Progesterone can aid in pregnancy in women who have fertility issues. It is also sometimes used in men as a sleep aid.