Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT): Myth Vs. Reality
Have you ever thought that your body is not on your side? Mood swings, fatigue, and a lack of interest or desire can leave any person feeling out of sync. Now, along comes Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, a therapy that can easily be marketed as restoring balance and returning you to a lively, healthy state of being. However, with so much information (and misinformation) available to the general public, it is easy to confuse BHRT about where to find a solid baseline of what BHRT is, what it is not, and whether it is safe, effective, only for women, etc. It is time to dive into the information and the myths about this interesting hormonal replacement strategy. Your journey to understanding begins here with LifeBoost MD!
Understanding BHRT
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy utilises hormones that are chemically identical to those produced by our bodies. While the goal is to differentiate between the two types of hormone-therapy clearly, BHRT is individualised to manage symptoms of hormone imbalance for both men and women with a variety of health concerns.
Bms Consensus Statement
Both the North American Menopause Society and the Endocrine Society support a measured approach to BHRT. In their consensus statement, they suggest that there are benefits to BHRT therapy. While the treatment can have risks, these risks often relate to the individual patient populations affected by hormones.
Criticism And Adverse Effects Of BHRT
Some critics of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy have suggested that the result of BHRT therapy will be seen in the form of adverse effects such as mood swings, weight gain, or perhaps a headache. Individual effects differ and can be reflected in the use of medications to treat potential situations, where patients may adjust and manage the final dosage depending on efficacy.
Safety Concerns Relating to BHRT
Safety concerns relating to BHRT are partly attributable to misinformation and research that is outdated. Although there are dangers that arise (as with any medical treatment), proper medical monitoring and individualised treatment protocols significantly reduce possible side effects, and thus it becomes a safer undertaking for patients attempting to achieve hormonal equilibrium.
Misinformation regarding BHRT is derived from old studies, sensationalized articles or press reports, and ignorance regarding the difference between synthetic and bioidentical-hormones. All of these factors bring anxiety and confusion and can eventually eclipse the numerous advantages of custom hormone therapies.
Misconceptions Of BHRT: What Does Science Really Say
There are many myths surrounding Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy out there. Let’s dispel these myths to foster a better understanding of its safety and benefits for those who require a customised method of restoring hormonal balance. Not all hormone therapy is created equal. Synthetic hormones are very different from bioidentical-hormones in that they provide a structure that is identical to the body’s own hormones, allowing for a more effective and compatible therapy for patients.
Distinction Between Synthetic & Bioidentical Hormones
Synthetic hormones are chemically modified compounds that are designed to act like natural hormones. Bioidentical hormones are identical molecularly to the hormones produced by the human body, and thus offer a more compatible and effective treatment.
BHRT Is Chemically Identical To Natural Hormones
Bioidentical-hormones are chemically identical to the hormones that your body produces. Since they are structurally similar, they can adequately perform their functions in the body and alleviate or possibly eliminate the symptoms of hormonal imbalance and some possible health risks.
Myth: BHRT Is Unsafe Or Unregulated
It is generally accepted that BHRT is unsafe or unregulated. However, there are many FDA-approved formulations available. Compounded therapy is also primarily regulated, allowing for the management of risks associated with compounding under medical oversight, making it a safe treatment option.
BHRT Is FDA-Approved Or Compounded With Oversight
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) is FDA-approved in multiple dosage forms, including patches and gels.
Safety And Efficacy
Compounded BHRT is strictly followed up by regulatory bodies to ensure safety and efficacy for individualised treatment protocols.
Bioidentical-Hormones
The FDA approves BHRT products that contain bioidentical-hormones, in the sense that they are structurally identical to the hormones produced by the human body, as in, they are safe and effective when using bioidentical-hormones instead of artificial hormones.
Researched And Demonstrated
Drugs must be studied and put through a series of clinical trials to provide safety and efficacy before FDA approval. The same is true about BHRT products, which are FDA-approved. The products are independently researched and demonstrated to be safe and effective, which is why the FDA has approved these products for use with hormones.
Compounded Pharmacy
Some patients may prefer BHRT that is compounded instead of FDA-approved products. Compounded BHRT, which is completely regulated and licensed through pharmacy boards, involve mixing products with other hormones and creating specific dosages, based on the patients’ hormone levels and symptoms. In other words, the patient receives BHRT from a compounded pharmacy, as it is more individualised.
Reality: BHRT is typically done under medical supervision
Although there are risks associated with BHRT therapy, BHRT is generally considered safe, and much of the risk is mitigated by the clinician through regular follow-up appointments and evaluation of potential side effects. This process of monitoring and assessing the BHRT means that the patient’s individual health needs are taken into account to develop an appropriate course of action as a remedy for any side effects experienced.
Myth: BHRT Is Just For Women
Many people view Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy as just for women; however, men can also benefit through testosterone therapy by managing their health as they age, by understanding conditions like andropause, as well as recognising hormone imbalances.
How Men Can Benefit From Testosterone Therapy?
Men can use testosterone therapy to increase their energy, libido, mood, and muscle mass, as well as manage the onset and symptoms of andropause to be healthier and vital as they age.
Andropause/Male Hormone Imbalance
Andropause refers to the aging of men who will be subject to changes in their hormonal levels throughout their lives, and the most common and prominent change is testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT). For some men, fatigue and decreased libido may occur due to factors such as the addition of responsibilities (more work, family, etc.), but for other men, it may simply be declining levels of testosterone. This is why we stress the importance of looking at hormones and finding balance with them in relation to your overall health and wellbeing.
Reality: BHRT Is Intended To Be For Both Genders
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy is not just intended therapy for women; men are also able to utilize BHRT potential for example when testosterone therapy is used for managing things such as andropause, as well as gender hormone imbalances that affect a man’s health and vitality as they age.
Hormone-Therapy Causes Cancer Or Heart Disease
New research seems to indicate that individualised (or personalised) hormone-therapy is safe. In contrast to the outdated WHI studies on synthetic hormones (which could plausibly increase health risks), bio-identical hormones may be ideally safe. When patients are properly monitored by a health care professional for hormone-therapy, and when the physician uses the correct hormone replacement dosage, patients may even decrease some health risks.
Increasing research indicates that individualised (or personalised) hormone-therapy, particularly in the case of bioidentical hormone therapy, is reasonable or – in many instances – safe and effective. When done on a personal needs basis, hormone-therapy can be a significant improvement in the individual’s quality of life without added risk of substantial impacts on the patient’s health.
WHI Studies On Synthetic Hormones
The past WHI studies looking at synthetic hormones tentatively linked things like cancer or heart disease to synthetic hormone-therapy. It is important to note that there are very few studies on (bio-identical) hormone-therapy showing evidence (actual evidence) of health risks associated with bio-identical hormone-therapy. Therefore, regarding (bio-identical) hormone-therapy, the past WHI studies may offer intriguing speculation but likely say little about their actual effects.
Reality: Bio-Identical Hormones May Reduce Certain Risks If Monitored Correctly.
There is a growing body of research indicating that when patients are monitored appropriately by their healthcare professional and individualised treatment goals are used to ensure proper hormone balance, patients, when treated appropriately with bio-identical hormones, may actually reduce certain risks. In summary, individualised treatment programs can help promote a better quality of life while also managing the adverse side effects of poor hormone balance.
Myth: Natural Is Weak
“Natural” does not mean weak. Hormone replacement therapy with bioidentical-hormones can be effective for hormone imbalance when dosing and monitoring are done by a properly qualified health care provider to match the body’s own chemistry. Dispel the notion that “natural” means weak – bioidentical-hormones can produce a substantial effect.
As you can see, the term “natural” is easily confusing. While bioidentical-hormones are derived from plants, they are chemically identical to human hormones and can produce potent effects. When properly dosed and monitored, they can be very effective.
Truth: When Dosing And Monitoring Properly, Stronger Is Better
Dosing and monitoring for bioidentical hormone replacement therapy are crucial factors in optimising results. Properly dosing and monitoring reduces the potential of side effects and simultaneously promotes effectiveness for health and overall wellness.
Benefits Of Hormone Replacement Therapy Supervised By A Physician
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can provide benefits including increased energy, libido, sleep, cognitive clarity, mitigation of symptoms of menopause and andropause, and cardiovascular health when conservatively managed.
Improved Energy, Libido, Sleep And Cognitive Clarity
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can improve energy levels, enhance libido, improve sleep quality and sharpen cognitive clarity. These benefits contribute to overall vitality and a sense of well-being in both men and women.
Reduced Symptoms Of Menopause And Andropause
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy can efficiently alleviate symptoms of menopause and andropause, including, but not limited to, hot flashes, mood swings, night sweats, fatigue, and reduced libido. Many patients report a higher quality of life through the use of balanced hormones.
Protection From Bone Loss, Mood Swings And Fatigue
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy can support protection from osteoporosis or osteopenia, provide stabilising mood swings and reduce fatigue. In an overall sense, these benefits contribute to your quality of life while treating hormonal loss.
Improved Metabolic And Cardiovascular Health
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy can confer improved metabolic and cardiovascular health by restoring socio-economic benefit to metabolic health through improved design levels. Proper management will mean that the patient receives social benefits, including improved metabolic utilisation of energy, decreased myocardial operating conditions, improved energy utilisation from physical activity, and diminished cardiovascular disease risk factors.
A Few New Research Citations Or Medical References
Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism
New research, including studies published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, demonstrates the effectiveness of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. They demonstrated effectiveness for treating symptoms presented from hormonal imbalances.
Journal of the American Medical Association
I also referenced a study titled “Hormone replacement therapy and breast cancer,” published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. This study presented interesting information regarding how bio-identical hormones may decrease the risk of breast cancer, at the same time citing typical hormone replacement therapy (HRT) risk. This research supports the safety of bioidentical hormonal intake and potential long-term ramifications.
Journal of The North American Menopause Society
Research published in Menopause, the Journal of The North American Menopause Society revealed that bioidentical-hormones may increase bone density and may also reduce the risk of osteoporosis for postmenopausal women.
In summary, these studies demonstrate the efficacy and the safety of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. This presents a positive option for individuals seeking relief from the symptoms of hormonal imbalances.
Who Is A Good Candidate For BHRT?
Good candidates for BHRT include men and women ages thirty-five and older who are experiencing fatigue, mood changes, low libido, and cognitive issues. Individuals in menopause, perimenopause, or andropause often find the most significant benefit from therapy.
Men and women aged 35+ with hormone imbalance symptoms
Hormonal imbalances are prevalent in men and women above the age of 35, and they can create symptoms such as fatigue, mood swings, lack of libido, and brain fog. It is essential to recognise symptoms of hormone imbalance to seek appropriate medical treatment and start feeling more like yourself.
Substantial Hormonal Changes
Individuals experiencing menopause, perimenopause, or andropause endure substantial hormonal changes. Signs and symptoms, such as hot flashes, mood swings, fatigue, and lack of libido, are common in these phases. Understanding these phases is essential to managing the symptoms appropriately.
Effective Treatment
Hormonal imbalances create symptoms that can impact everyday life, including fatigue, mood changes, low libido, brain fog, etc. It is essential to recognise these symptoms so you can consult the appropriate health professional for effective treatment and start enjoying your life to the best of your ability.
Personalised Hormone Balance
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can give you a personalised hormone balance. It offers men and women experiencing fatigue, mood swings, and/or low libido a quality of life that will provide them with relief from the debilitating aspects of hormone imbalance.
BHRT At Lifeboost MD: What To Expect
At LifeBoost MD, you’ll receive a personalised approach to BHRT. Our protocol includes comprehensive diagnostic testing and ongoing monitoring to establish an initial baseline and ensure your personalised treatment plan—utilising pellets, injections, and creams—is optimally balanced with no overload.
At LifeBoost MD, we put your needs first. We will utilise comprehensive diagnostic testing and lab work to create your treatment plan, whether it involves pellets, injections, or creams, ensuring it is tailored to you and results in an optimal outcome.
Diagnostic Testing, Lab Work, And Ongoing Hormone Monitoring
At LifeBoost MD, diagnostic testing and lab work are thoroughly evaluated. This complements the ongoing monitoring of your hormones that we will provide to ensure we will be able to tailor every treatment to your individual needs and achieve the most optimal results possible, as well as ensures your hormonal state is as balanced as can be throughout your journey at LifeBoost MD.
Discussing with an appropriate provider, such as LifeBoost MD, can expand your understanding through a personal perspective. They will direct you towards the individual’s needs while ensuring your treatment is safe, effective, and monitored by a clinician. You can choose to make fostering change in your health journey today; age management could change the course of your life.
Safe, Physician-Guided Treatment Plans
At LifeBoost MD, our treatment plans are tailored to meet your individual needs. Pharmacists will deliver different hormone treatments to you in exact doses via pellets, injections, or creams, etc., while we guarantee we will remain as safe as possible. Every treatment option has doctors supervising and will give you optimal results from your therapy.
Men and women often seek BHRT from LifeBoost MD starting at 35 years old and up. Symptoms of sadness, fatigue, mood changes, loss of libido, and brain fog are often the most significant and most common reasons that people will come to see us, especially during lifestyle changes outlined for perimenopause and menopause for women and andropause for men.
Wrapped Up
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy provides a safe, evidence-based option for hormone balance. If you are willing to do some research and seek advice from professionals like LifeBoost MD, you will be able to make decisions in your health journey that are best for you and your body. Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy is a science-based, individualised approach to hormone balance. It has benefits that have documented evidence, avoids the risks associated with outdated hormone treatment methods, and is a commendable option for anyone looking for relief from any hormonal issues. Education about Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) is an essential part of health today. One must sift through the myths of BHRT and focus on scientifically backed facts. If you are experiencing symptoms of hormone imbalance, you might want to educate yourself further.