Hormone Replacement Therapy

“Ugh, all these hormones?”

 

 

There has been a lot of news and press about “bio-identical” hormones, but what are bio-identical hormones and how do they affect our bodies?  It is often confusing to understand the differences between natural and synthetic hormones, and to know what is right for you. 

 

What are bio-identical hormones?

 

 

Bio-identical hormones are medications that are made in the laboratory and are constructed to have the same molecular structure as our own hormones, therefore the term “bio-identical”, and are plant derived substances.  These are different from synthetic hormones which are not manufactured to be the same molecular structure, and therefore are intended to work differently in our bodies. Most commonly we hear about female bio-identical hormone replacement (BHRT), which is typically referring to estrogen, progesterone, testosterone and DHEA; although there are others.  Some examples of synthetic hormones include Premarin, Prempro and Provera.  In addition, bio-identical hormones tend to have fewer side effects and are more natural than synthetics, which can be very strong and cause much more short and long term side effects.

 

Synthetic hormones are available in the form of oral pills, while bio-identical hormones are available in pills, creams, troches, lotions, vaginal rings, patches, and sublingually dissolving tablets. By using alternate forms of administration, we can decrease the amount of side effects that the hormone can have on the system, particularly the liver, and we can affect the way in which the hormone is absorbed and metabolized in the body. 

 

What are bio-identical hormones used to treat?

 

 

Bio-identical hormones are used to treat hormone imbalances, which can stem from a wide range of conditions. Perimenopause and Menopause have been widely talked about in the media, but there are many other conditions that will benefit from the use of hormone therapy, these include, but are not limited to:  Hypothyroidism, Sleep problems, Diabetes, Male Andropause, and Adrenal Fatigue.

 

The symptoms of hormone imbalance vary greatly, but many people experience some of many of the following:

Fatigue                                              

Dry Skin                                 

Vaginal Dryness                              

Hot Flashes                           

Joint Pain                              

Insomnia/Sleep disturbances

Night Sweats                        

Memory Lapses                               

Difficulties concentrating

Decreased Libido               

Decreased Energy             

Difficulty losing weight

Mood Swings                                   

Anxiety/Irritability                

Headaches

Change in Body Shape                 

Male Patterned Baldness  

Increase in hair growth

            Bloating                                

Constipation            

Depression

 

How do I know if I have a hormone imbalance?

 

 

Hormone imbalances are simply an excess of or an insufficient amount of a certain hormone(s).  Because hormones affect every organ, gland and function of our system, an imbalance can cause illness or irritating symptoms (some of which are listed above.)

 

Before starting a treatment program for hormone imbalance, it is important to get some baseline information on your current hormone levels. There are several options for testing hormones. Tests can be done by blood, saliva or urine.  Laboratory testing can help to identify the cause or origin of your hormone imbalance and can help your medical provider determine the best course of treatment. 

 

Are bio-identical hormones safer than synthetic hormones?

 

 

We want to say “yes”, bio-identical hormones are safer than synthetic hormones, after all, they are more natural, they tend to have less side effects and they are mimicking our bodies own processes. But in reality, I am not sure that we really know. There have not been many long term studies on bio-identical hormones. It makes sense that they would inherently be safer, but it is always recommended to discuss this with your medical provider and it is always recommended to use the lowest possible dose for the shortest amount of time when treating with hormone therapy.  

 

 

Are bio-identical hormones right for you?

 

 

It is important to discuss all options with your medical provider. There are often many levels to assessing and treating hormone imbalances.  At Northwood Health Center, our Naturopathic physicians can help you to understand these options and decide if bio-identical hormone therapy is the right option.  For some patients, starting with bio-identical hormones can be the right and appropriate place to start, but there are often other options, such as diet, lifestyle, nutrition, and herbal therapies that also can affect our hormone production and metabolism. It is important to choose the best approach for each patient and each condition. Our goal is to help your body reset itself, to affect the underlying physiology so that it can function in the way that it was intended to.  We will look at not only your current hormone status, but will also look at other contributing factors such as diet, lifestyle, and nutrition that can impact your hormone production and metabolism. Treatment plans are tailored specifically for each individual to help you reach the best possible outcome.

 

 

Please contact Northwood Health Center at 503-981-4591 to schedule an appointment with one of our Naturopathic providers today.