Bioidentical hormone preparations are medications that contain hormones like estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone. They are an exact chemical match to those made naturally by humans, as opposed to hormones produced from other animals or from plants that are slightly chemically different from human hormones.
Medical literature often leads readers to believe that there are the same concerns with bioidentical hormones as there is with other hormone replacement therapy for relieving symptoms of menopause, as some hormone replacement therapy has been linked to increased risks of breast cancer or blood clots. Most health experts recommend that if women need hormone replacement therapy, they take the lowest dose for the shortest time.
Should you consider bioidentical hormone replacement therapy? Hormone replacement can offer a beneficial treatment for menopausal symptoms, including:
- Moderate to severe hot flashes
- Night sweats and sleep problems
- Vaginal dryness
- Mood changes
- Weight gain and slowed metabolism
- Thinning hair and dry skin
- Loss of breast fullness
We recommend that each woman discuss her own symptoms, history, options, and risks with her physician at the Cheyenne Women’s Clinic prior to making the decision to begin hormone replacement therapy. If you are interested in using bioidentical hormones, we would be happy to talk with you about it.
