Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is unique because it uses hormones that are identical to the hormones made in the human body. Because the hormones are identical, they are more compatible with the body. This allows the body to respond naturally and lessens the chance of harsh side effects.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy has numerous benefits for both women and men. Age related hormone decline is one of the most common reasons for hormone imbalances; however, hormones may become imbalanced at any time due to stress, lack of sleep, poor lifestyle choices, and poor nutrition.
Testosterone is the most prevalent male sex hormone, and it begins to decline when a man hits age 30. By the time a man is in his mid-40 or 50’s, his testosterone has decreased by 35%, and when he enters his 70’s, he only has 10% of the testosterone he had in his 20’s. When testosterone wanes, several functions may begin to become impaired.
Estrogen and progesterone are the primary sex hormones in women. These hormones begin to decline in the time leading up to menopause, known as peri-menopause. Peri-menopause can last from 4-6 years. Menopause officially begins when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. For many women the transition into menopause is marked by unpleasant symptoms caused by drastic hormone fluctuations. Hot flashes, sleep disruption, fatigue, memory difficulties, mood swings, weight gain and loss of interest in sex are symptoms that may result.
Other hormones that may be affected by hormone decline include DHEA, pregnenolone, insulin, and melatonin. DHEA and pregnenolone are precursors for estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone; if they are insufficient, the three sex hormones may also be deficient. Melatonin helps to regulate sleep and immune function. A deficiency of melatonin can cause insomnia, chronic illness, and slow wound healing. Insulin helps to balance blood sugar, and when it is deficient, the body cannot regulate blood sugar, which may lead to diabetes. High levels of insulin are a factor in heart disease. All the hormones must work together to keep the body in balance. When they are out of balance, symptoms develop and disease may follow.
Benefits of Bioidentical Hormone Therapy for Men and Women include:
Balanced Moods: Hormone fluctuations can cause mood swings due to hormonal interference with blood sugar and brain chemistry. Balanced hormones can remedy feelings of anger, anxiety, and depression.
Increased Muscle Mass: A testosterone deficiency can occur in both men and women. Testosterone directly affects the building of muscle. If testosterone levels are too low muscle mass will decrease.
Fat Loss: Muscle influences the burning of calories. When muscle is abundant, fat stores are tapped into in order to sustain energy. If estrogen is low for either a man or woman, the body attempts to conserve estrogen by storing extra fat. This is because fat contains estrogen. Adding regular amounts of estrogen to the body can decrease fat storage.
Higher Libido: If hormone levels are decreased, then desire for sexual activity is also decreased. When hormones are restored to normal levels, libido is boosted.
Healthier Sleeping Patterns: The body’s internal clock sets sleeping patterns and is located in the part of the brain known as the hypothalamus. Hormonal imbalances can interfere with signals in the hypothalamus and create disturbed sleep.
Increased Vitality: Fluctuations of hormones can cause blood sugar to not be processed properly, and this can cause feelings of fatigue. When hormones are balanced, the body can effectively produce energy to restore and increase vitality.
Higher Bone Density: Estrogen and testosterone influence the way bones absorb calcium. If the bones cannot properly absorb calcium, they become weak, which leads to osteoporosis. Balanced hormones can regulate calcium absorption to keep bones healthy and strong.
At AMS, we offer a complete solution for BHRT and invite you to meet with us so that we can address your questions. Our resources allow us to offer a ground up analysis of your practice that allows us to offer an ancillary service that works for you and addresses all legal restrictions and regulations in place. Please get in touch with us today so that we may work to provide you a service that promotes patient care and works to ensure patient responsibility.