Many of us may not be familiar with the term “bioidentical hormones.” Bioidentical hormones are simply artificially-created hormones that bear a close resemblance to natural hormones produced by the human body. They are trained to act with the same intent and are used for the treatment of hormonal imbalances in both men and women.
Bioidentical hormones are commonly used by women in their menopausal stages to help cope with bodily changes that occur during these times. They are typically derived from plants and animal-based sources. The main types of hormones processed from plants include progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone.
Hormones regulate the working mechanisms of the body, telling it how to act and when to work. As such, even the slightest hormonal disruption can send a person into a feat, causing major disruptions in the way a person performs. This is why doctors and medical practitioners recommend bioidentical hormone replacementfor symptoms of hormonal imbalance in the body.
How Are Bioidentical Hormones Made?
Bioidentical hormones are typically formulated and produced by pharmaceutical companies. They are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Some bioidentical hormones are also developed as over-the-counter prescriptions by compounding pharmacies. Over-the-counter bioidentical hormones are usually custom-made for patients following their specific hormonal needs.
Indeed, bioidentical hormones are often advertised as natural products derived from plant and animal sources. Nonetheless, these products are processed in a lab which strips off a large portion of their natural properties.
Bioidentical hormones come in different formats and dosages. They are typically available as creams, pills, gels, vaginal inserts, and sprays. It is always advisable to consult a medical professional before settling on the type and dosage that is perfect for you.
Benefits of Bioidentical Hormones
Below are some known benefits of bioidentical hormones as claimed by drug providers:
1.
Bioidentical hormones are known to increase elasticity in the blood vessels allowing blood to get through easily and circulate through the body.
2.
They are known to reduce the risk of getting colon cancer
3.
They are known to improve some of the well-known symptoms of menopause such as mood swings, dry vagina, and hot flashes.
4.
They also help women with insomnia.
5.
They help persons with Alzheimer’s disease.
6.
They help to improve the conditions of a weak bladder.
7.
The risk of osteoporosis is greatly reduced with the use bioindentical hormones.
8.
Bioidentical hormones help to improve glucose levels in the blood.
When Do People Consider Getting Bioidentical Hormones?
Most women start to consider the idea of bioidentical hormones once they get into their perimenopausal phase. This is usually the time when the body starts to make a natural transition towards menopause.
Some typical signs of perimenopause include the following:
1.
Sweating profusely at night
2.
Insomnia
3.
Hot flashes
4.
Haziness
5.
Loss of energy
6.
Bipolar or Mood Swings
7.
Libido loss
8.
Depression
9.
Dryness of the vagina
10.
Lyme disease
11.
Hair loss
12.
Dryness of the skin
13.
High cholesterol pressure
14.
UTI infections
15.
Adding weight
16.
Thyroid hormone malfunction
When women experience some or all of the signs, their natural response is to resort to taking bioidentical hormones. So the question: Are Bioidentical Hormones at all safe for menopause? The plain answer to that is NO.
The FDA has stated that certain hormonal drugs branded under the code name “bioidentical” haven’t been proven to be more effective than traditional hormone therapy. Paying close attention to the word “bioidentical,” it is imperative to note that these kinds of hormones are not 100% natural.
The idea that they are gotten from animal and plant sources does not take away the fact that they are still commercially and artificially processed. Pharmaceutical companies and brands often claim that bioidentical hormonal products are highly beneficial to humans. However, they may still come with many known risks.
Some Risks Associated With Bioidentical Hormones
Here are some associated risks with the usage of these kinds of hormones:
1.
There is an increased danger of getting breast and endometrial cancer
2.
Heightened risk of heart and cardiovascular sicknesses from long-term usage.
3.
Bioidentical hormones increase the chances of blood clots and ultimately, stroke.
4.
Long-term users are prone to Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome.
