Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) is a medical treatment that involves supplementing or replacing hormones in the body, typically used to alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances, most commonly in women during menopause. BHRT may also be referred to as hormone replacement therapy, hormone therapy, or estrogen therapy. Along with estrogen and progesterone, a thorough evaluation of the thyroid may be conducted to ensure all of the body’s hormone systems are balanced. BHRT often leads to alleviation of most menopausal symptoms and leads to a better quality of life overall. BHRT for women involves using hormones that are structurally identical to those naturally produced in the body. Estradiol, a bioidentical estrogen, is now preferred over Premarin, which was derived from pregnant mare’s urine and was associated with health risks such as an increased risk of breast cancer and heart disease. BHRT, which we use, does not come with the same side effects that were present with Premarin, and with careful monitoring by a competent doctor, has very few side effects. 

Women over the age of 45-75, or who are experiencing menopausal symptoms can especially benefit from BHRT, as well as women who have low hormone levels prematurely due to disease, injury, or surgery such as hysterectomy, which compromises hormone production. Some women may also experience early menopause, which is when women experience menopause before age 45. BHRT may be effective to treat and prevent many things such as osteoporosis, decreased muscle mass, vaginal dryness, decreased libido, mood swings, weight gain, hot flashes, night sweats, bone loss, brain fog, low energy, and many other symptoms related to menopause.  

BHRT may be administered through oral medications, pellets, patches, gels, or creams, and can be tailored to an individual’s specific needs. The method of dosage and the combination of hormones will vary according to the individual’s needs and medical history and can be adjusted at any time by your healthcare provider, Dr. Ives.

Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. It is characterized by a significant decline in the production of estrogen, testosterone (yes, women need testosterone) and progesterone around the ages of 45-55 leading to various symptoms, such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, night sweats, mood swings, diminished libido, and bone density loss (osteoporosis). BHRT  therapy especially can help alleviate these symptoms by replacing the hormones that the body is no longer producing at adequate levels.