Bioidentical hormones are hormones that are chemically identical to those naturally produced and circulating within the human body. They are synthesized from plant sources and are biologically equivalent to our endogenous hormones like estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, etc.
The bioidentical hormones used for hormone replacement therapies are derived from yams and soy plants. They are extracted, modified and made into the exact replication of hormones found in both men and women. This makes them completely biochemically identical in structure, function and effects to our innate sex hormones.
Studies show that bioidentical hormones have a better safety profile compared to synthetic hormone replacement drugs. Since they are identical copies, bioidentical hormone replacement leads to much less risk of side effects.
Bioidentical hormones can restore depleted hormonal levels thereby alleviating unpleasant symptoms. They help regain a natural balance without causing fluctuations or imbalances.
There are various signs and symptoms that can indicate decreased hormonal levels in both men and women. These include:
These may consist of low libido, erectile dysfunction, decreased muscle mass, weight gain, fatigue, mood changes like irritation and depression. Low testosterone or hypogonadism in males should be timely treated.
Hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, irregular periods, trouble sleeping, mood changes, weight gain can all signal onset of menopause due to dropping estrogen and progesterone levels. Prompt treatment can relieve these symptoms.
Thinning hair, dry skin, high cholesterol, loss of stamina, reduced bone density indicating onset of osteoporosis, loss of lean muscle mass are other common deficiency signs. These highlight falling hormonal levels with progressing age in both genders.
There are different types of bioidentical hormones used for replacement therapy. These include:
Estrogen hormone levels start declining in perimenopause leading to uncomfortable symptoms like hot flashes and sleep disturbances in women. Bioidentical estrogens like estradiol, estrone can provide relief by restoring estrogen balance.
This is essential for regulating menstruation and supporting pregnancy. Bioidentical progesterone creams and pills can help women with levels dropping due to perimenopause or surgical menopause.
Replacing testosterone via bioidentical testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) improves stamina, muscle strength, weight loss, libido and erectile function in testosterone deficient men.
Thyroid, melatonin, DHEA may also be replaced through bioidenticals customized for the individual needs of the patient. Our specialists design appropriate regimens tailored to meet symptom management objectives of each patient.
There are clear documented advantages of bioidentical over synthetic hormone replacement therapy in terms of safety and efficacy. These are elaborated below:
Synthetic hormone drugs are not biochemically identical to human hormones. This leads to increased risks of side effects like fluid retention, weight gain, palpitations, polyps and cancers. Bioidenticals being exact copies, have substantially less risks of such adverse events.
Bioidentical hormones can be individually customized with respect to doses and routes of administration based on the person's hormonal levels, age, symptom profile and lifestyle considerations. This leads to optimal restoration of hormonal balance.
Multiple studies tracking patient outcomes over time have conclusively demonstrated that bioidentical hormones are associated with better safety results, control of deficiency symptoms and improved patient satisfaction.
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) may also provide benefits like improved sleep quality, emotional well-being, exercise capacity, cardiovascular health, skin, hair quality and osteoporosis prevention.
Many people don't realize that bioidentical hormones are not necessarily safer or more effective than synthetic hormones for menopausal symptoms. More research is still needed to fully understand the long-term risks and benefits of both types of hormone therapy.
At Second Spring Hormone Clinic clinic located conveniently in Elmwood Park, our team of dedicated BHRT specialists provide customized therapy based on your body's hormonal requirements and symptom profile.
We specialize in a holistic and individualized approach taking into accounts lifestyle factors, diet, exercise, stress levels and preferences of each patient. The correct bioidentical hormones and routes of administration are matched to your body's needs for optimal results.
Our founder Dr. TBD is board certified in Internal Medicine, Endocrinology and Age Management Medicine with specialized expertise in hormonal balance, regulation and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. He follows evidence based standardized protocols for safe, efficacious therapy.
We are located centrally in the heart of the Elmwood Park community with proximity to laboratories, eateries and parks. Our timings are flexible to accommodate your schedule. New patient visits range from 60-90 minutes with follow-up visits averaging 30 minutes.
We cover most major insurance providers like Cigna, Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield etc. Our financial counselor assists with information on deductibles, copays and payment options minimizing out of pocket expenses.
There are compelling reasons why seeking timely medical care for hormonal deficiencies is critical as elaborated below:
Seeking timely treatment can help avoid needlessly prolonged distressing symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness impacting relationships, sleep deprivation, cognitive issues, weight gain, muscle loss that increasingly worsen over time.
Bioidentical HRT helps restore energy, stamina, emotional health, sexuality and physical capacity enhancing productivity and overall joy and engagement with life.
Studies indicate that prolonged low hormone levels increase future risks of fractures from osteoporosis, heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease and certain cancers. Optimal hormonal balance safeguards against these long term complications.
Balanced hormonal milieu stimulates collagen production beneficial for skin, muscle tone, stamina and sexuality thus slowing aging. Bioidenticals help achieve enduring good health with graceful aging.
Taking timely medical action empowers and reassures that symptoms are not “all in your head” but treatable with medical therapies. It provides a sense of control over distressing symptoms through positive action.
Conclusion
In summary, bioidentical hormones provide a safe and effective option for restoring optimal hormonal balance thereby successfully alleviating deficiency symptoms and improving quality of life. They are biochemically identical to the body’s innate sex hormones with better safety profiles compared to synthetic alternatives. At Second Spring Hormone Clinic clinic conveniently located in Elmwood Park, our dedicated BHRT specialists provide individualized therapy based on your body’s needs. We follow evidence based protocols designed to help you feel healthy, energized and vibrant while slowing aging. Please call today to schedule your consultation.
