Hormones are critical to our overall health and well-being, and for women, estrogen is the most critical hormone of all. This powerhouse hormone is responsible for everything from regulating the menstrual cycle and controlling sexual desire to maintaining strong bones and preventing osteoporosis. As women approach menopause, however, their body produces less and less estrogen—and when your hormone levels feel out of whack, your whole life can feel out of whack.

Hormone replacement therapy replenishes estrogen (and sometimes progesterone, another key hormone) in the body, thereby alleviating the more troublesome side effects of menopause. For many women, hormone replacement therapy is life-changing and helps them feel like themselves again.

Traditional hormone therapy involves the use of animal-derived hormones. Once touted as a miracle cure for hot flashes and other unpleasant menopause symptoms, these synthetic hormones more recently have been linked to a number of health concerns, including breast cancer, stroke and blood clots. They’re only available in standardized dosages, meaning they take a one-size-fits-all approach to a decidedly multifaceted situation.

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, on the other hand, uses plant-based hormones that have the same chemical and molecular structure as those produced naturally by the human body. Because bioidentical hormones match the body’s hormones molecule by molecule, they are absorbed and processed easily and efficiently. Unlike synthetic hormones, bioidentical hormones are available in dosages tailored to each individual’s unique needs. This not only increases their effectiveness by allowing for customization that addresses the individual’s exact concerns, but also improves safety by reducing the potential for adverse effects caused by improper dosing.

Bioidentical hormones are available by prescription only and are produced by a compounding pharmacy. They can be administered in a variety of convenient forms, including pills, patches, creams, gels and pellets. Many times, the form comes down to personal preference: Some women prefer the simplicity of pills, for example, while others like how one injection of pellets can last for months.

Most women experience some relief from menopause symptoms within the first two weeks of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. Results vary depending on the individual. The length of treatment also varies depending on individual needs. Some women may need BHRT indefinitely; others may stop treatment after their symptoms have subsided.

Getting started with bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is simple. The first step is a consultation with an experienced BHRT doctor, who will review your overall health and discuss whether BHRT is right for you. Next come blood tests to determine your current hormone levels. Using these results, your doctor will prescribe a combination of hormones to address your concerns and optimize your health. Your doctor will also discuss the pros and cons of the different delivery methods and help you identify the best option.

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is most effective when combined with a healthy lifestyle, including a regular fitness routine and good eating habits.

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is an ideal alternative for women looking to get all the benefits of traditional hormone therapy with none of the risks. By offering a more natural approach to managing the uncomfortable and sometimes distressing symptoms of menopause, BHRT provides much-needed relief while avoiding further complications.

Some of the benefits of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy include:

  • Fewer hot flashes
  • Increased libido
  • Better sleep
  • Improved energy levels
  • Enhanced mental acuity
  • Reduced vaginal dryness
  • Improved bone density
  • Reduced risk of heart disease
  • Decreased inflammation and joint pain
  • Reduced risk of depression
  • Improved quality of life

BHRT can also alleviate symptoms caused by cancer treatment, such as incontinence and migraines.

If you’re suffering from the symptoms of menopause, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is a viable option. BHRT has helped countless women find relief from hot flashes, fatigue, mood swings, insomnia and more. For many women, BHRT is not just life-changing—it’s life-affirming.

As a safe and natural alternative to traditional hormone replacement therapy, BHRT is an excellent choice for most women. Talk to your doctor today to learn how you can get on the road to relief.

Diminish your discomfort.

Find a menopause provider near you and schedule your bioidentical hormones consultation today.