Introduction
Bioidentical hormones are an alternative treatment option for hormone imbalance. Hormone imbalances are common, especially during midlife transition. Hormones occur naturally in the body and regulate a variety of functions. Traditional synthetic hormone replacement (HRT) has been associated with unwanted side effects. Bioidentical hormones are derived from natural plant sources, such as yams or soy, to produce molecules that are physiologically similar to the hormones made by the human body. Bioidentical hormones are able to perform the actions of hormones that are produced by the body, but they may have fewer side effects than synthetic HRT.
Hormone imbalances can occur throughout the lifespan and especially during menopause. Hormone-related symptoms may include mood swings, irregular periods, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), premenopausal symptoms, reduced libido, weight gain, fibrocystic breasts, cramps, infertility, and endometriosis. Bioidentical hormones are used to relieve the symptoms of hormone imbalance.
A feature of bioidentical hormone therapy is that it can be adapted to your individual body and hormonal needs. Bioidentical hormones are available in a variety of strengths and dosages. A custom-made formula can be created for just the right amount that you need. Bioidentical hormones are available in capsules, topical creams and gels, suppositories, and sublingual troches or lozenges.
Treatment
You doctor will provide you with a thorough education, including the risks and benefits of all products that are appropriate for you, so that you may make an informed choice. You will receive a thorough evaluation and hormonal testing. Based on the results and your input, your doctor will recommend the bioidentical hormones to fit your needs. It may take a few attempts to identify the products and doses that work best for you. A pharmacist will create your bioidentical hormones for the precise dose that you need. It may take a few trials to determine the right dose for you. Your doctor will monitor and adjust your dose as necessary.
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This information is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be used in place of an individual consultation or examination or replace the advice of your health care professional and should not be relied upon to determine diagnosis or course of treatment.
The iHealthSpot patient education library was written collaboratively by the iHealthSpot editorial team which includes Senior Medical Author
Dr. Mary Car-Blanchard, OTD/OTR/L and the following editorial advisors: Steve Meadows, MD, Ernie F. Soto, DDS, Ronald J. Glatzer, MD,
Jonathan Rosenberg, MD, Christopher M. Nolte, MD, David Applebaum, MD, Jonathan M. Tarrash, MD, and Paula Soto, RN/BSN. The library
commenced development on September 1, 2005 with the latest update/addition on 4-27-2010.