A Guide to Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy for Menopause

A picture of Anne Marie Ponce de Leon

Anne Marie Ponce de Leon

Aside from physical appearance, aging involves a lot of other changes in the body. While some symptoms of aging are not painful, they can lead to dramatic changes in how the body works. One sign of aging that most women anticipate is menopause. 

Understanding Bodily Hormones

Many glands in the body are responsible for producing our hormones. When secreted, the hormones control how and when certain bodily functions take place. From how the brain works to how food is digested, many bodily processes can be attributed to bodily hormones. 

As people age, they become more prone to hormonal imbalance. For women, the common causes of hormonal imbalance are related to reproductive hormones, leading to menopause.

Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal imbalance is inevitable, especially with age—women experience menopause, and andropause is its counterpart in men. The important reproductive hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are the most affected by menopause and andropause. This results in the slowing down and malfunctioning of men’s and women’s reproductive functions. 

Signs of hormonal imbalance include hot flashes, weight gain, mood swings, night sweats, lower sex drive, and pain during sex. 

The Benefits of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy is a treatment used to replicate the natural hormones in the body. This treatment aims to replace the reduced or fill the loss of hormones responsible for proper bodily functions. 

In 2002, the FDA discouraged the use of Synthetic Hormone Replacement Therapy. This was when BHRT emerged. BHRT is claimed to be safer since it is plant-based and offers better results to those who will receive the treatment. FDA-approved hormone therapy replacement in Houston helps compensate for low hormonal levels without the unwanted side effects brought about by the synthetic version of the treatment. As a result, BHRT can also reduce the symptoms of menopause and andropause. Some of the expected results are decreased mood swings, increased libido, and better sleep. 

What to Expect From BHRT

Although BHRT is proven to be effective, this treatment is not for everyone. A patient must be screened first to know if the treatment is fit for them. The screening process includes comprehensive blood analysis to check hormone levels and determine the necessary dosage. During this period, patients are asked about symptoms they are experiencing, their gravity, and their frequency.

You ay be wondering if there are any side effects from BHRT. Like any other treatment, you may experience minor side effects. You need to let the doctor know if you are experiencing an acne breakout, weight gain, blurry vision, increased facial hair for women, headaches, spotting, and cramping. Other symptoms may be breast tenderness, bloating, mood swings, indigestion, red spots on the treatment area, and more. It’s important to let your doctor know if there are any irregularities in your body after undergoing treatment. 

Conclusion

Menopause is expected among adult women, and treatments such as Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy can alleviate the symptoms that come with it. Take note that the BHRT treatment effects are not limited to the reproductive hormones but can be good for overall bodily functions. 

Z Med Clinic is your trusted family health care clinic in Texas. We offer hormone therapy, laser services, IV infusions, weight management, and testosterone therapy in Houston. Call us to schedule your appointment.

 

Anne Marie Ponce de Leon

Medical Director

About Anne Marie Ponce de Leon

Anne Marie Ponce de Leon MD is a proud native Houstonian. She obtained her undergraduate degree from Houston Baptist University with a double major in Biology and History. For medical school, she attended the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston (recently renamed McGovern Medical School). She began her family practice training at Tufts University Medical School in Boston, MA, but subsequently returned to Houston where she completed her residency at the Memorial Southwest Family Practice Program.

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