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Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy vs. HRT

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy vs. HRT

Hormones play a vital function in our body to keep our psychological and neurological functions properly. As we get older body’s hormone production naturally declines and develop a certain health problem. Dr. Elizabeth Thompson Nelson, M.D., board-certified in internal medicine provides hormone therapy that is used to control hormone levels, reduce symptoms associated with hormones, and prevent long-term medical conditions. During menopause, HRT is used to restore hormone production to a normal level and balance progesterone and estrogen levels. On the other hand, BHRT is a synthetic hormone that is manufactured to keep hormone levels stable when the body does not produce enough hormones on its own. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 2401 South Kanawha Street, Ste 100, Beckley, WV 25801.

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy vs. HRT Near Me in Beckley WV
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy vs. HRT Near Me in Beckley WV

Table of Contents:

What is the difference between bioidentical hormones and HRT?
At what age can you take bioidentical hormones
Who is a good candidate for hormone therapy?
How long can you take bioidentical hormones?

What is the difference between bioidentical hormones and HRT?


Two common methods of treating hormonal imbalances in both men and women are bioidentical hormones and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). While bioidentical hormones and HRT both aim to increase the body’s natural hormone levels, there are a few distinctions between them:

Administration –
HRT is typically administered via pills or patches, whereas bioidentical hormones are usually given as creams, gels, pellets, or injections.

Composition – Bioidentical hormones are created to be chemically identical to the hormones produced by the human body and are derived from natural sources like soy and yam plants. HRT consists of synthetic hormones that are similar to but not identical to the hormones naturally produced in the body, such as conjugated estrogens and progestins.

Personalization – Bioidentical hormones can be tailored to meet each patient’s unique needs. To best suit the patient’s hormonal profile, the dosage, delivery method, and hormone combination can be altered. In contrast, HRT uses standardized dosages and formulations that are not adjustable to suit the unique requirements of each patient.

At what age can you take bioidentical hormones?


People as young as 30 years old can begin using bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT). Around this time, the body starts producing fewer hormones. This is referred to as perimenopause in women, which is the period before menopause during which the ovaries begin to produce less estrogen and progesterone.

Similarly, this period is known as andropause in men, which refers to the age-related, gradual decrease in testosterone production. Younger patients do not often experience the more severe symptoms of hormonal imbalances. However, treating signs of hormonal imbalance early will help prevent the onset of more intense symptoms as the patient ages.

For example, if a woman in her 30s experiences irregular periods, mood swings, or decreased libido due to hormonal imbalances, treating those signs with BHRT will help prevent more severe symptoms, such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and osteoporosis, from developing later on. If a man in his 30s experiences low testosterone levels, treating the imbalance with BHRT will help prevent more intense symptoms, such as muscle loss, decreased bone density, and erectile dysfunction, from developing later in life.

Who is a good candidate for hormone therapy?


Hormone therapy provides relief from a variety of symptoms caused by hormonal imbalances for both men and women. Hormone therapy for women can lessen symptoms such as:

– Hot flashes
– Poor memory
– Decrease in energy levels
– Weight gain
– Mood swings
– Irregular menstruation
– Decreased libido
– Sensitivity to temperature
– Puffy face

Hormone therapy for men can improve symptoms such as:

– Erectile dysfunction
– Hair loss
– Mood swings
– Weight gain
– Decrease in energy levels
– Decreased libido
– Low sperm count
– Decrease in muscle mass

In addition, individuals with chronic conditions like fibromyalgia and thyroid problems can benefit from bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT).

BHRT reduces the fatigue, insomnia, and muscle pain associated with fibromyalgia.

When it comes to thyroid conditions, BHRT can control issues like weight gain, high cholesterol, and even heart problems.

In summary, a range of conditions and symptoms can be treated with hormone therapy. A specialist will be able to determine if you are a good candidate for BHRT or HRT and create a personalized treatment plan to alleviate the symptoms of hormonal imbalances.

How long can you take bioidentical hormones?


BHRT is not intended to be used indefinitely. It does have limitations, such as a higher risk of developing certain cancers if used for a prolonged period of time. For this reason, the average person uses hormone replacement therapy for 5 to 7 years.

It is wise to limit the use of BHRT in women to 2 to 4 years due to the increased risk of breast cancer, heart attack, and stroke. Studies have found that men can receive treatment for a longer period. Your specific symptoms, how well you respond to BHRT, and any side effects of hormone replacement will all influence how long your treatment will last. Your physician will determine the length of your treatment plan to reflect your goals, symptoms, and risk factors.

For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 2401 South Kanawha Street, Ste 100, Beckley, WV 25801. We serve patients from Beckley WV, Bradley WV, Daniels WV, Mount Hope WV, Lester WV, Stanaford WV, Shady Spring WV, Sophia WV, Macarthur WV, Baylor WV, Beaver WV, and surrounding areas.