Bioidentical hormones are identical in molecular structure to the hormones naturally produced in the human body. They are often prescribed when levels of key hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone decline with age or due to medical conditions.
BHRT involves restoring optimal hormonal balance by supplementing the body with plant-based bioidentical hormones including:
Treatment is individualized based on each patient's unique needs and hormone levels. Custom compounded hormone medications are prepared specially to meet prescribed dosages.
Many patients seek BHRT to find relief from uncomfortable signs and symptoms of hormone deficiency:
- Hot flashes, night sweats - Vaginal dryness - Increased belly fat, difficulty losing weight - Depression, mood swings, irritability - Insomnia - Brain fog, memory lapses - Low libido
- Low energy, fatigue - Increased body fat, weight gain - Erectile dysfunction - Loss of muscle mass - Depression, irritability - Loss of focus and concentration
Left untreated, hormone imbalances can negatively impact one's quality of life. They have also been linked to medical conditions like heart disease, osteoporosis, and Alzheimer's disease.
Comprehensive lab testing helps our practitioners evaluate patients' hormone levels and determine if treatment is warranted.
| Common Hormones Tested | Optimal Lab Ranges |
|---|---|
| Estradiol | 100-200 pg/mL for women |
| Progesterone | 1-28 ng/mL luteal phase for women |
| Testosterone | 350-700 ng/dL for women; 400-700 ng/dL for men |
| DHEA-S | 130-240 mcg/dL for ages 30-40 |
Testing may check levels of the hormones themselves and related compounds that can provide additional insight.
Saliva, blood, or urine tests can be used depending on the hormone. Testing is generally repeated throughout treatment to ensure optimal levels are achieved and maintained.
Restoring hormonal balance with bioidentical hormone therapy can provide both immediate and lasting relief of deficiency symptoms. Patients report benefits such as:
In the long run, balanced hormones are essential to overall wellbeing and key to reducing risk for certain chronic diseases.
BHRT tailored specifically to each patient's needs allows for treatment that truly makes a difference in quality of life.
Women are most likely to benefit from supplementation with bioidentical estrogen and progesterone.
Declining production of the hormone estrogen during perimenopause and menopause leads to disruptive symptoms like hot flashes and sleep disturbances. Long term it can contribute to bone loss and heart disease.
Low progesterone often accompanies estrogen decline, causing symptoms like weight gain, sore breasts, and mood changes. Progesterone helps balance and enhance estrogen's therapeutic effects in the body.
Estriol is considered the safest form of estrogen for postmenopausal women. Used transdermally with micronized progesterone, it effectively relieves menopause symptoms without significant risk.
In both men and women, low testosterone can cause low libido, lack of energy, mental fogginess, and increased body fat. Bioidentical testosterone therapy effectively treats hormonal deficiency to help patients feel like themselves again.
Testosterone pellets inserted under the hip's skin supply steady testosterone levels over a 4-6 month period. Testosterone also comes in topical gels, injectable forms, and oral capsules. Hormone specialists determine optimal delivery methods per patient needs and preferences.
Monitoring during treatment ensures healthy testosterone levels are achieved and unpleasant symptoms subside.
Note: Reputable practitioners avoid prescribing testosterone therapy for those at high risk of prostate cancer.
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a precursor hormone from which estrogen, progesterone and testosterone are made. Our bodies produce less DHEA with age.
Deficiency can negatively impact energy, immunity, mood, sleep, sexual health, muscle tone and more. DHEA used transdermally helps restore youthful hormonal balance.
Complementing bioidentical hormone therapy with positive lifestyle changes can enhance results:
Holistic support addresses all factors influencing wellbeing - mind, body and spirit.
The field of bioidentical hormone therapy continues to advance with new innovations including:
Technical advances allow safer, more convenient and person-centered treatment.
Specialized training and clinical experience with BHRT gives our practitioners at Harmony Health in-depth knowledge of:
Our goal is refreshed vitality and renewed quality of life.
Traditional synthetic hormone replacement therapy has well-known risks resulting in declining use. Plant-derived bioidentical hormones offer a safer, more effective alternative.
| Bioidentical HRT | Traditional Synthetic HRT | |-|-| Molecularly identical to human hormones | Molecularly different structure | Fewer side effects | Increased side effects | Lower disease risks | Elevated risks of blood clots, stroke, breast cancer | Customized dosing | Standard doses |
At Harmony Health, we understand the importance of hormonal balance for overall health and well-being. Our experienced practitioners are dedicated to providing personalized bioidentical hormone replacement therapy to help you regain your vitality and improve your quality of life. With our comprehensive approach, cutting-edge treatment options, and commitment to patient care, you can trust us to guide you on your journey towards renewed energy, resilience, and longevity.
