Aging and its associated symptoms, has long been associated with slowing down and less mobility. Low mood, decreased libido, and overall lack of energy often lowers your quality of life and prevents you from living to your fullest potential. These symptoms can be caused by unbalanced hormone levels.
The good news is, Bio-identical Hormones can be an effective treatment in relieving a wide range of symptoms, supplementing your body with the correct level of hormones. Before considering treatment however, it is important to consider your medical history and assess if you’ve been experiencing any of the symptoms that are caused by low hormone levels.
Signs of hormonal imbalance women should watch out for
It’s important for women to seek treatment if they are experiencing any of these symptoms. They are commonly mistaken for other conditions or overlooked, however, the progression of hormonal imbalance can lead to health consequences such as…
- Fatigue
- Hot flashes
- Insomnia
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Mood swings
- Memory loss
- Vaginal dryness
- Painful sex
- Low sex drive
- Weight gain
Symptoms men should watch out for
- Decreased sexual desire
- Loss of muscle mass
- Muscle weakness
- Reduced stamina
- Sexual dysfunction
- Sleep disturbances
- Increased fat storage
- Low energy levels
What is Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Bio-identical Hormones have identical molecular structures to their counterparts found naturally in the human body. They are made from natural plant extracts that are able to mimic the effects of the natural hormones found in your body.
For example, Bio-identical Estradiol helps maintain bone density and protect against heart disease. Bio-identical Progesterone promotes uterine lining growth and helps prevent endometriosis. This treatment is most common for women looking to relieve menopausal symptoms.
Pellet insertion is the preferred form of hormone replacement because of the ability to deliver the appropriate dose of hormones 24/7 for months– something other forms of hormone therapy cannot do.
At what age are Bio-identical Hormones recommended?
Hormonal changes occur at different ages throughout our lives. The most common time of change is during Perimenopausal years (the transition into menopause). During this period, estrogen as well as progesterone decreases.
It is very common for women to experience symptoms during this time. However, there are times when hormonal imbalances may not manifest until later in life, such as after menopause.
Most commonly, men and women at age 45 will begin to experience a decline in hormone levels.
How do I know if my body needs Bio-identical Hormones?
Blood tests
Your doctor will run blood tests to check your hormone levels. If your results show that you’re deficient in certain hormones, then Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy can then be administered.
You’re experiencing early symptoms
Some women who have experienced menopause before their 40th birthday may notice unpleasant symptoms that indicate they need bio-identical hormones sooner than expected. In fact, some experts recommend starting Bio-identical Hormone Therapy even before menopause begins.
You’ve started entering Menopause
If you’re already experiencing menopausal symptoms, it’s best to get tested first to see whether you need bio-identical hormones. Your treatment provider will conduct blood tests and review your health history to determine your hormone levels.
Treating the symptoms of Menopause
Menopausal symptoms occur and are commonly more severe because of the sharp decline in hormones.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy is designed to mimic the body’s natural production of hormones. They contain the appropriate supplemental amounts of estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, as compared to the levels found in premenopausal women. This effectively alleviates the symptoms of menopause.
BHRT is often recommended for women who want to reduce their risk of cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, and hot flashes as well.