Bio-identical hormones, or natural hormones, are replicas of the body’s own natural hormones, made from soy, yams and other plant extracts.
Three types of hormones, estrogens, progesterone and androgens, are typically prescribed for Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT).
The dosage of each individual’s therapy is determined after a review of your physical examination, medical history and laboratory testing.
Close monitoring is essential to make any dosage adjustments that may be necessary.
Estrogen
The three main forms of estrogen most commonly prescribed to regain your normal physiologic balance are estriol (E3), estradiol (E2) and estrone (E1). These estrogens are some of the most powerful hormones in the human body.
One, or a combination of these hormones, are utilized to treat such adverse menopausal symptoms as vaginal atrophy, dryness and infections, painful intercourse, incontinence and recurrent urinary tract infections.
Estrogens are also responsible for increasing good cholesterols (HDL) and decreasing bad cholesterols (LDL), decreasing blood pressure, reducing the risk of colorectal cancer and reducing bone loss. Most of all, they will improve your mood, energy levels, sleep patterns and your memory and cognitive function.
Progesterone, also known as P4, is a hormone that plays a major role in regulating the menstrual cycle. It enhances mood, helps protect against certain cancers, and reduces or stops bone loss.
Natural bio-identical progesterone is commonly prescribed if you are in perimenopause, the period of time between the onset of changes in hormonal secretions and menopause when you are experiencing “estrogen dominance.”
Estrogen dominance occurs when a woman produces smaller amounts of progesterone than normal relative to estrogen levels. Not only does progesterone solve the problem of estrogen dominance, but it also improves bone mineral density and minimizes the risk of endometrial cancer.
Androgens (Testosterone and DHEA)
Deficiencies in the androgen hormones testosterone and DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) play a significant role in women’s health. Androgen deficiency decreases sexual desire and is often mistaken as a sign of depression.
To enhance libido and other symptoms, doctors prescribe androgens which will also provide cardiovascular protection by lowering cholesterol, and improve energy levels and mental alertness. Androgen also protect against loss of immune function, obesity, diabetes and osteoporosis.
For more information visit our page on “Menopause Stress Relief”