Bio-identical hormone therapy is an exciting field that is quickly gaining popularity. This type of therapy uses hormones that are identical to the ones produced by the human body, making it a more natural and effective treatment option for many hormone-related conditions.
Let’s look at some of the information and facts about bio-identical hormone therapy.
What is Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy?
Bio-identical hormone therapy (BHT) is the use of hormones that are identical in chemical structure to hormones produced by the human body. BHT is sometimes referred to as ‘natural hormone therapy’ or ‘hormone replacement therapy.’
BHT has been used for many years to treat a variety of conditions, including menopause, andropause, and chronic fatigue syndrome. Recently, BHT has been gaining popularity as a treatment for hormone-related conditions such as obesity and metabolic syndrome.
A Brief History
The first record of use goes back to Ancient China, where the older women of nobility ingested young women’s urine after it had been dried to thwart the issues they encountered with menopause. The theory was that a younger women’s urine contained the metabolic waste products of testosterone, estrogen and progesterone.
BHT has therefore been used for centuries and has continued as a treatment of choice throughout history.
It wasn’t until the early 1930s that bio-identical hormones began to be used more widely for menopausal symptoms, after James Collip – a Canadian researcher – found a way to extract orally active oestrogen from pregnant women’s urine.
The use of bio-identical hormones gained popularity in the 1980s, when Dr John R. Lee, a leading authority on hormone replacement therapy, began writing and lecturing about the benefits of bio-identical hormone therapy. His work helped to raise awareness of this treatment option and make it more accessible to women across the US.
Today, bio-identical hormone therapy is used by millions of women worldwide to relieve symptoms of menopause, perimenopause, and hormonal imbalances.
How Does Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy Work?
Bio-identical hormones are designed to replace the hormones that are no longer being produced by the body. This can help to correct hormonal imbalances and improve symptoms associated with these imbalances.
Is Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy Safe?
The safety of bio-identical hormones has not been fully studied. However, current research suggests that BHT is safe when used appropriately. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting BHT to ensure that it is right for you.
Side Effects
The most common side effects are, ironically, not dissimilar to menopause. They can include:
-Hot flashes
-Weight gain
-Headaches
-Nausea
Side effects are typically mild and go away on their own, however embarking on this therapy should always be done under the care of a health professional.
Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy: What Can I Expect?
Bio-identical hormones replace the hormones that are no longer produced by the body, so improvement is usually rapid. Treatment is monitored by your health professional and any adjustments are made accordingly.
In A Nutshell
Bio-identical hormone therapy is a safe and effective treatment for hormonal imbalances. A friendly and confidential consultation with Dr Martin and his team is recommended if you are experiencing symptoms of hormone imbalance.
Dr Martin and his knowledgeable, experienced staff based in Abilene, Texas, know how hormone imbalances can disrupt and destroy lives. They also know that bio-identical hormone therapy can be the key to regaining control and reclaiming your life. Discover if this therapy is right for you by contacting Dr Martin today.