Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy

What are people saying about Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy?

“More and more doctors are recommending natural hormones to their patients because the naturals offer all the advantages of synthetic hormone replacement therapy (HRT) without the negative side effects or long-term health risks. Unlike synthetic HRT, the naturals are bio-identical (they match your own hormones exactly) and don’t interfere with your body’s normal hormone production. Being bio-identical means natural hormones are safer, more effective, and have greater protective benefits. From alleviating unpleasant symptoms of PMS, peri-menopause, and menopause, to correcting hormone imbalances that can cause fibrocystic breasts and endometriosis, to protecting against osteoporosis, heart disease, endometrial cancer, and other diseases, the benefits are countless.” -Taken from the book “A Woman’s Guide to Natural Hormones” by Christine Conrad.

Compounding Bio-Identical Hormones

Diplomat Pharmacy has every capacity to compound an endless variety of formulations which meet the needs of physicians and patients. Please call with any questions. This information is not an attempt to solicit business, but merely a response to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the compounding of hormonal replacements.

Bio-Identical or Natural Hormones

  • Bio-Identical or natural hormones are molecularly (biochemically) identical to your true major steroid hormones: progesterone, estradiol, estrone, estriol and testosterone.
  • Natural hormones are taken from natural sources like yams and are bio-identical to the hormones naturally occurring in your body.

The Benefits of Natural Hormone Therapy

Restoring your hormone levels can provide a degree of protection against hardening of the arteries, and muscle and bone wasting. When your hormone levels are restored naturally, you can enjoy the same protective benefits that synthetic HRT offers, without the side effects of synthetic hormones.

Natural Hormones vs. Synthetic Hormones

  • Synthetic agents like Prempro, Estratest, Provera and Premarin are similar to the natural agents estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. However, they are not identical in either structure or activity to the natural hormones they emulate. Hormones work like a key in a lock. Bio-Identical hormones are keys that fit the lock perfectly.
  • Synthetic Hormones fit more like a skeleton key in some, but not all, hormone receptor sites. Side effects are more common with synthetic hormones because of poor lock and key fit and not all organs benefit from the protective effects that bio-identical hormones can offer.

The Importance of Progesterone After a Hysterectomy

Historically, progesterone was considered the “pregnancy hormone,” and many healthcare professionals believed it was not needed by a woman who had no uterus. Today we know that progesterone plays many important roles in your body. Breast health, bone health, cognitive function, libido and emotional stability are all influenced by progesterone. The absence of a uterus should not be a deciding factor when determining the need for progesterone.

Women and Testosterone

Testosterone is predominantly a male hormone, but women also need it in small amounts. Testosterone helps build bone, maintain muscle tone, increase energy and enhance sexuality. When supplements are necessary, only very small amounts are used to prevent masculine side effects.

Hormonal Deficiency Symptoms

The following symptoms indicate a hormonal deficiency:

  • Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMS)
  • Endometriosis
  • Infertility
  • Mood swings
  • Osteoporosis
  • Weight gain
  • Low libido
  • Hot flashes
  • Depression

HRT, proper nutrition and exercise may relieve these symptoms. Diplomat Specialty Pharmacy can provide you with reading materials to further educate you on this topic. We will work with you and your physician to ensure that you receive the best therapy for your individual needs.

Email  Sue Pennell,R.Ph, Clinical Nutritionist and BHRT Consultant

For more information contact us today.