Integrative Gynecology

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement

Bioidentical hormones are unique in that they are identical in molecular and structural function to the hormones produced in the human body. As aging occurs or when the body becomes worn down with stress, the cells of the body are no longer able to produce adequate amounts of vital hormones. Other factors such as excessive smoking or alcohol intake, a poor diet, and lack of exercise can also weigh on the body’s ability to produce important hormones.

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement (BHRT) is typically used to treat the progressive loss of hormones that comes with age. In women this is termed peri-menopause and menopause and includes the loss of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. Menopause represents a constellation of symptoms: hot flashes, mood swings, night sweats, loss of libido and sexual desire, vaginal dryness and atrophy that can lead to painful intercourse, urinary stress incontinence, unwanted hair growth and weight gain, depression, cognitive decline, insomnia, and osteoporosis.

In men, the loss of hormones with age is termed andropause or male menopause. This hormonal loss is primarily testosterone and is commonly referred to in the media as Low-T. Declining testosterone levels in men can lead to loss of libido, erectile dysfunction, moodiness and depression, loss of cognitive ability, loss of stamina, muscle mass and strength, and fatigue. BHRT represents a ‘natural and organic’ means of restoring, optimizing, and preventing further hormonal decline. Since BHRT is produced from plant-based organic compounds that are molecularly similar to one’s own hormones, there exists a greater safety profile and less adverse side-effects than traditional HRT.