Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy

Transitional times in life bring changes

As we age, we approach the “pausal” years. For women, it’s known as Menopause. For men, it’s known as Andropause.

During these transitional times in life, it’s as if the sex glands go into retirement and there can be a lot of changes, such as:

• Anxiety
• Brain fog
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Hair loss
• High cholesterol
• Hot flashes
• Insomnia or poor sleep
• Low libido
• Muscle and joint pain
• Weight gain

What is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)?

First, let’s define hormones. Hormones are chemical messengers produced by the endocrine system and are involved in many important processes, such as sexual function, reproduction, metabolism, immunity and the function of various organs in the body. When hormones become imbalanced, havoc can break loose in a variety of ways.

Conventional Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) uses synthetic hormones meant to mimic the hormones we naturally produce. These are similar to, but not identical to our own hormones. HRT often comes in set doses and standard formulas, as a one-size-fits-all solution in the form of either pills or patches that deliver uniform doses.

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) uses hormones formulated from plants such as soy and yams, which are chemically identical to the hormones we naturally produce. Our bodies recognize them as identical, therefore the structure and function of them are also identical to our natural hormones. In this regard, BHRT has fewer negative side effects than HRT. Bioidentical hormones are available in creams, gels, pellets or injections, and your provider will customize your dosage and delivery method to suit your specific needs.

Benefits of BHRT:

• Since the hormones of BHRT are identical to our own, our bodies can process them more easily
• More natural than the synthetic hormones of traditional HRT
• Tailored treatment to fit your unique needs, in terms of dosage and delivery
• Reduces hot flashes
• Improves mood
• Increases energy
• Brain clarity
• Improves sleep
• Reduces pain
• Lowers high cholesterol
• Relieves muscle and joint pain
• Improves libido and function
• Reduces risk of heart disease and osteoporosis

Just as with any medication, there are potential risks and side effects. The body will go through an adjustment period as it gets used to the new hormone levels, and this is the period when side effects are most common. Of course, not everyone experiences side effects and most arec temporary, but it’s best to be informed of what they might be.

Side effects can include:

• Bloating
• Breast tenderness
• Facial acne or skin changes
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Increased hair growth
• Spotting or Cramps for women
• Weight gain

Risks

Risks associated with BHRT really depend on your personal history and your family history. At risk individuals can become more at risk, while taking BHRT for blood clots, gallbladder disease, stroke, and breast cancer. It’s important to work with a naturopathic doctor who specializes in endocrinology and knows how to customize dosages, based on your history and monitor your progress.

BHRT is FDA-approved and is a safe and effective treatment that can restore the quality of your life in your pausal years. For more information, book a free 15 minute consultation with one of the doctors here, and see if BHRT is the right fit for you.

Explore additional topics from Sacramento Naturopathic Medical Center with Dr. Godby, ND, MA and his team at Natural Wellness.

As a naturopathic doctor for the last 20 years, I have witnessed the power of a preventative lifestyle and naturopathic medicine to transform the health and lives of thousands of patients.

Sacramento Naturopathic
2530 J Street, Suite 100
Sacramento, CA 95816
Phone: (916) 446-2591
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