Hormones are vital to your body to function at its best. They help your cells communicate with one another and coordinate everything from appetite and growth to mood and libido. Even a slight hormonal imbalance can have significant effects on your physical and mental health and well-being. One of the most effective treatments to ease the symptoms of hormonal imbalance is bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, or BHRT. Keep reading to learn more about BHRT, including what it is and how it can help you get back to feeling your best.
What Are Bioidentical Hormones?
Your body naturally produces hormones in your endocrine glands. These chemicals are released into your bloodstream to the appropriate body part so they can coordinate functions such as growth, metabolism, reproduction, mood, and sexual function. If your hormones are out of balance, you may experience symptoms like mood swings, weight gain, irregular menstruation, sexual dysfunction, etc. Bioidentical hormones are a type of man-made hormones that closely resemble the hormones naturally produced in the body. Because they are chemically identical to the ones made by your body, it can easily absorb and use them to counteract imbalances.
Why Would I Need Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy?
You may need bioidentical hormone replacement therapy for one of many reasons. Getting older can impact your body’s ability to produce certain hormones, such as the decline of estrogen during menopause that can cause hot flashes, insomnia, vaginal dryness, night sweats, low libido, and mental health changes. Hormonal imbalances can also be caused by certain health conditions like chronic stress, hypothyroidism, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), leading to unpleasant symptoms that may include irregular periods, mood swings, weight gain, excessive hair growth, hair thinning, sleep disturbances, acne, and more. If you are experiencing a reduction in hormone levels due to menopause or other health conditions, taking bioidentical hormones can increase these levels in the body to improve your symptoms.
Is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Safe?
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is both safer and more effective than traditional hormone replacement therapy. Bioidentical hormones have an identical structure to those naturally produced in the body, making them easier for your body to recognize and use. Traditional HRT came with an increased risk of blood clots, breast cancer, and heart disease. However, these risks are significantly reduced in BHRT, and recent research suggests it may even reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis in women who start the therapy within 10 years of their last period. Possible side effects of BHRT can vary depending on the type you take and your medical history, and they may include mood swings, acne, weight gain, fatigue, or headaches.
Taking Bioidentical Hormones
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy can come in many forms, including oral pills, injections, implanted pellets, creams, gels, and patches. You may notice improvements to your symptoms in as little as a couple of weeks or after a few months, though it’s recommended to wait up to 6 months to determine whether or not BHRT is working for you. It’s important to be monitored regularly once you start BHRT to measure your body’s response and check for side effects. You can start BHRT at any age, though it may have the most benefits for your health if you start within 10 years of your last period. For many women, it makes sense to start at the first sign of menopausal symptoms.
Compounded Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy at Kizer Pharmacy
Here at Kizer Pharmacy in Union City, TN, we understand the unique challenges of hormonal imbalances and want to help you rediscover balance and vitality. That’s why we offer compounded bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. Whether your hormonal imbalance is caused by menopause, stress, or medical conditions, our certified compounding pharmacists can craft a personalized BHRT treatment formulated for your unique needs. Are you ready to say goodbye to your uncomfortable symptoms? Reach out to Kizer Pharmacy today to start your journey toward renewed health and well-being!