Your hormones control most of your bodily functions. They act as an internal communication system among different cells throughout your body. Hormones coordinate everything, from your immune system and appetite to your digestion, growth, libido, and mood. So, even a slight imbalance in your hormones can impact your well-being and health. 

Often, people turn to hormone replacement therapies when their hormones become unbalanced. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, BHRT, is gaining a lot of attention. What exactly is it, and how is it different from other hormone replacement treatments? 

Bioidentical Hormones

These are synthetic or lab-made hormones. They mimic the natural hormones made by your endocrine glands. Of all hormones, they are the closest to the real thing. Made from a plant steroid known as diosgenin, they are chemically identical to those produced by the body. 

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy

BHRT can help treat people whose hormone levels fall out of balance or drop. Doctors often use this treatment to deal with symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. BHRT can improve cancer treatment symptoms and treat conditions like:

• Fibromyalgia.
• Insulin resistance.
• Osteoporosis.
• Thyroid and adrenal disorders.

Bioidentical hormones come in different forms, including injections, pills, gels, creams, and patches. They differ from those used in traditional hormone therapy in that they are chemically identical to the natural hormones produced by the body. 

Benefits of BHRT

You will have difficulty functioning correctly when your hormones are out of balance. BHRT can help and provide the following benefits:

Mimics Natural Hormones

Bioidentical hormones are as close to your body’s natural hormones as possible. So, your doctor can customize your treatment protocol to your specific needs.

Improved Sexual Experience

As women age, their estrogen levels decrease. That causes them to experience vaginal dryness and pain during sex. These problems can make them self-conscious about sexual intercourse. Some avoid it altogether. BHRT can help restore estrogen levels, promoting more vaginal lubrication. That leads to better sexual experiences and an improved sex drive. 

Stronger Hair and Nails

A drop in your hormone levels can impact your bones, nails, and hair, leading to issues like hair loss and brittle nails. BHRT can help you look and feel younger and strengthen your hair and nails.

Better Sleep

A hormone imbalance can negatively affect your sleep cycles. Inadequate sleep can affect your energy and mood. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy can help stabilize your hormones, promoting improved mood and better sleep. 

Decreased Menopause Symptoms

Dropping progesterone and estrogen levels can lead to numerous uncomfortable symptoms, such as:

• Lack of energy.
• Hot flashes.
• Mood swings.
• Night sweats.

BHRT can help regulate these hormones that cause menopause symptoms. Other benefits of BHRT include healthier skin, better mental clarity, reduced bloating, and decreased symptoms of anxiety and depression. Other possible benefits include an improved ability to build muscle and lose fat and an increased sense of well-being. 

If you are considering this treatment, the first step is determining whether you are a good candidate. Then, schedule a consultation with your doctor to learn more about the treatment.

For more on BHRT, visit Full Life at our office in Nashville, Tennessee. Call (615) 805-5600 to book an appointment today.