Bioidentical hormones are identical in molecular structure to the hormones produced naturally in the human body. They are synthesized from plant sources and are biochemically equivalent to endogenous human hormones like estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, etc.
The key benefit of bioidentical hormones is that they fit perfectly into the hormone receptors in the body and mimic the function of naturally produced hormones. This avoids negative side effects associated with synthetic hormone replacement drugs.
Bioidentical hormones used for replacement therapy include:
These hormones are available in multiple natural forms and modes of delivery - pills, creams, gels, injectables, etc. This allows customization of treatment based on a patient's hormonal needs and preferences.
There are several reasons people experience hormonal imbalance today:
The most common cause of lowered hormone levels is aging. As we grow older, endocrine glands secrete fewer essential hormones resulting in unpleasant symptoms.
In women, reduced estrogen/progesterone causes issues like:
In men, testosterone deficiency leads to:
When left unchecked, hormone imbalance can negatively impact vitality, emotions, relationships, and quality of life.
Some effects of long-term hormone insufficiency include weak bones (osteoporosis), heart disease, and stroke. Rebalancing hormones through replacement therapy can restore well-being and help prevent disease.
Getting tested is crucial for determining which hormones need replacement.
Accurately diagnosing hormone imbalance requires assessing levels of the following hormones:
| Hormone | Acceptable Range |
|---|---|
| Estradiol | 25-75 pg/mL perimenopause 100-200 pg/mL reproductive age |
| Progesterone | 1-28 ng/mL luteal phase |
| Testosterone | 350-890 ng/dL men 15-70 ng/dL women |
| DHEA-S | 130-380 mcg/dL ages 30-49 35-325 mcg/dL over 50 |
The optimal range varies by factors like sex, age, menstrual cycle phase, etc.
Repeat testing may be required after ~3 months of therapy to ensure hormones are balanced.
Based on test findings, physicians can determine which hormones need replenishing and if age-related decline or other issues are causing insufficiency.
Diagnostic kits from leading labs allow patients to collect samples in the convenience of their home. This makes the process easy and stress-free.
Working with a knowledgeable bioidentical hormone doctor is key to successful treatment.
When selecting a physician, ensure they have adequate training and experience in:
Also, verify they use a compounding pharmacy to prepare customized bioidentical hormones.
Compounding pharmacies offer:
This table compares qualifications of bioidentical hormone providers:
| Provider | Training | Hormone Range Understanding | Customizes Treatment | Compounding Pharmacy Affiliation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nurse Practitioner | Moderate | Moderate | Yes | Varies |
| OB-GYN | Expert in female hormones only | Varies | Sometimes | No |
| Anti-Aging Physician | Specialized expertise | Superior | Yes | Yes |
When an experienced anti-aging physician works with a compounding pharmacy, patients benefit from superior therapy customization and quality oversight.
Bioidentical hormones are available in multiple natural forms: pills, patches, gels, creams, and injectable preparations.
The mode of delivery can be tailored based on patient considerations like:
Additionally, bioidentical hormone combinations are commonly used to better balance different hormones.
For example, progesterone pills can be taken along with topical BiEST estrogen to meet both estrogen and progesterone needs.
Follow-up testing helps determine if adjustments to dosing or preparation forms are beneficial over the course of treatment.
The major goals of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy include:
Both men and women can benefit from treatment sustained over months to years when supervised properly. Patients should partner closely with their healthcare provider to evaluate progress at 3-6 month intervals via lab testing and symptom reviews.
Dosing is adjusted until ideal hormone balance is achieved – not too high or too low.
If treatment is effective, many patients report increased energy, better sleep, improved mental clarity, enhanced libido, and an overall greater sense of well-being within a few months.
Because bioidentical hormones closely replicate natural human hormones, they produce fewer side effects compared to synthetic versions. However, there are still important precautions to note:
Despite a few noted concerns, research continues to deem bioidentical hormone therapy safer than conventional hormone replacement drugs when managed properly under a doctor's guidance.
Equilibrium Hormone Center' distinctive specialized services provide the following advantages to patients seeking expert bioidentical hormone replacement:
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy can be a safe and effective solution for addressing hormone imbalances caused by aging or other factors. By working with experienced physicians and compounding pharmacies, individuals can receive personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs. At Equilibrium Hormone Center, we prioritize comprehensive testing, careful monitoring, and customized dosing to ensure optimal results and minimize potential side effects. Our goal is to help patients restore hormonal balance, alleviate symptoms, and improve their overall quality of life.
