Bioidentical hormones are identical in molecular structure to the hormones naturally produced in the human body. They are often referred to as "natural hormones". The most commonly prescribed bioidentical hormones are estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) refers to the use of synthetic hormones that mimic the actions of hormones produced naturally in the body. Common forms of HRT contain synthetic versions of estrogen and progestin.
There are several key differences between bioidentical hormone replacement and traditional HRT:
Source
- Bioidentical hormones are derived from plant sources and are structurally identical to human hormones. They are considered natural as the body recognizes them as identical to our own hormones.
- Traditional HRT hormones like Premarin, Provera and synthetic testosterone are not structurally identical to human hormones. They are chemically altered in a lab to create a hormone-like substance.
Side Effects
- Bioidentical hormones tend to produce fewer side effects as they bind more accurately with hormone receptors. Estradiol and micronized progesterone have been extensively studied and found safe when correctly dosed.
- HRT often produces undesirable side effects like bloating, depression and synthetic hormone intolerance in women. This may be due to binding inaccuracies with receptors.
Customization
- Bioidentical hormone dosing can be customized and adjusted based on salivary or serum hormone level testing results to match the levels a patient had in their 20s or 30s. This is not possible with standardized doses of HRT preparations.
- HRT preparations contain standardized doses that stay the same for every patient. The "one dose fits all" approach cannot customize treatment based on symptoms or hormone levels.
Hormones Offered
- Bioidentical hormones can match a wide range of naturally occurring human hormones:
- Estradiol
- Progesterone
- Testosterone
- DHEA
- Thyroid (T3 and T4)
- Melatonin
- Pregnenolone
- HRT is mostly limited to estrogen and synthetic progestins like Provera or medroxyprogesterone acetate. Some doctors prescribe testosterone creams.
Monitoring Required
- Bioidentical hormone therapy requires periodic blood or saliva testing to ensure optimal hormone levels for the patient. Doses adjusted accordingly.
- There is typically no hormone level monitoring done with standardized doses of traditional HRT preparations.
If you are considering hormone therapy for menopausal symptoms,
Balance Hormone Clinic() specializes in custom-compounded, bioidentical hormone therapy for women and men. Our (/team) evaluate your symptoms, order laboratory testing, and work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan using FDA-approved bioidentical hormone preparations from our affiliate compounding pharmacy.
We partner with patients for the long run with ongoing adjustments and monitoring to keep hormones balanced and symptoms under control. Contact us today to learn more and get started on a custom bioidentical hormone replacement program designed just for you!
