Hormonal fluctuations can put your entire life off track. If you are experiencing menopause or andropause, you have likely felt unstable due to hot flashes, mood swings, fatigue, and other symptoms. Changes in hormone levels can also result in problems such as adrenal fatigue and thyroid issues, which can negatively impact your physical and mental health. Regardless of the cause, these shifts can be frightening.
If fluctuating hormone levels make you anxious, you are not alone. Hormonal fluctuations are a natural part of everyone’s lives, and many people may experience uncomfortable hormone-related symptoms at some point. However, you do not have to endure them. Traditional hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and bioidentical therapy (BHRT) can alleviate pain and improve mood.
But what distinguishes these treatments, and how can you choose which will work best for you? What is the choice when it comes to BHR vs. HRT?
By knowing more about bioidentical hormones vs. HRT, you can take ownership of your health and discover new possibilities. So, let’s explore HRT vs. bioidentical hormones in this post.
The body produces hormones to maintain vital physiological and neurological functions and processes. The body’s synthesis of these hormones naturally decreases with age and can be influenced by various health issues and lifestyle factors. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can restore hormone production to a more normal level. However, there are differences between the various types of hormone therapy. Comprehending the difference is crucial when comparing BHR vs. HRT.
Human-made hormones cannot replace hormones produced by the body. Traditional HRT utilizes hormones derived from chemicals or animals. Due to the similarity between these hormones and their human equivalents, the body may utilize them similarly. On the other hand, bioidentical hormones are produced from naturally existing plant molecules, such as those found in soy, and are chemically identical to human hormones. With bioidentical hormone replacement treatment, it is possible to administer these hormones. Since they are an exact match, the body reacts to them similarly to your hormones.
These therapies are available in various forms, including pills, creams, gels, and patches. Each of these types carries a unique combination of hormones in varying proportions. Regarding bioidentical hormones vs. HRT, BHRT is also available as pellets. These pellets can be administered subcutaneously.
The primary difference between BHR and HRT is the substances used to create them. The hormones your body naturally produces are similar to the plant-based hormones produced by BHRT. Hormones derived from pregnant mares’ urine and other substances are used in traditional hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Some women choose BHRT since it is natural, and the doses may be adjusted to match the needs of each individual. On the other hand, there are fixed HRT dosages.
It is of the utmost importance to know everything about BHR vs. HRT before deciding which one to go for. Now, let’s compare the two approaches in detail.
When individuals use conventional HRT, there is no assurance that all of their symptoms will be relieved. On the contrary, BHRT can alleviate symptoms more effectively.
Every treatment has its list of side effects. In certain instances, the symptoms are not too severe. In the case of BHR vs. HRT, HRT results in bloating, nausea, breast sensitivity, stomach cramps, and headaches. Bioidentical hormones are less likely to induce negative effects than synthetic hormones. Natural progesterone is virtually devoid of adverse side effects compared to synthetic progestins.
Your body requires the proper concentration of hormones to achieve and maintain hormone balance. Regarding BHR vs. HRT doses, HRT has a standardized dosage. This could reduce the treatment’s efficacy and make it more difficult to take because you would have to pick between a dose that does not alleviate your symptoms sufficiently and a dose that does alleviate your symptoms but produces many side effects.
BHRT uses bioidentical hormones that can be altered to meet each patient’s individual needs. This means that BHRT provides the exact quantity of hormone required, providing the greatest symptom relief with the fewest side effects and health hazards.
It is important to consult a specialist if you want to learn more about BHR vs. HRT or begin treatment. A physician familiar with both therapies can answer the queries and provide information about your options based on your specific symptoms and concerns, allowing you to choose the best course of action.
Changes in hormone levels are normal in the aging process, but there are now so many ways to manage them that even individuals with severe symptoms can feel better. It is now possible to regain control of life and restore equilibrium by utilizing the appropriate hormone replacement medicine and receiving compassionate care from your doctor.
Many women delay going to the doctor to discuss treatment options because they believe it will be a waste of time and they should wait until their symptoms worsen. This is not true, as hormone therapy will help you regardless of your symptoms, even if they are mild. Beginning hormone therapy at a younger age provides superior protection against osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.
Before beginning treatment, you should carefully consider the type of hormone therapy you wish to use and consult with your primary care physician. HRT has been shown to help with many hormonal symptoms by mimicking the effects of natural hormones. However, it is associated with unwanted side effects, such as bloating, stomach cramps, nausea, and headaches, and is ineffective for all patients.
When comparing BHR vs. HRT, there is evidence that bioidentical hormones may result in fewer side effects than conventional hormones while providing the same or even greater symptom relief. Some believe this is because bioidentical and endogenous hormones have the same chemical structure that increases their compatibility with the body. BHRT is completely individualized for each patient, considering the patient’s symptoms and test results. It may help alleviate symptoms without causing excessive side effects.
Hormone replacement therapy is an option if you’re experiencing symptoms of perimenopause. Specialists at Family Medicine Austin can help you decide if BHR can relieve your symptoms. Since this is a personal choice, our experts will guide you comprehensively. So, set up a phone consultation ((512) 872-6868) or book an appointment to learn more about BHR or HRT.
