Apr 03 2019

What is BHRT?

Anti-Aging Specialist, Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, Palm Harbor, weight loss service

Is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Right for me?

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy is considered to be one of the most effective treatments for symptoms of sleeplessness, hot flashes, night sweats and other menopausal symptoms. But, what exactly is it, and is it right for me? As we age our hormone levels decline causing significant changes in our body for both men and women. BHRT can reduce the risk of many diseases associated with aging and alleviate many symptoms that come with loss of hormones. Let’s break down what it is, and what it does:

Bioidentical Hormones

These are hormones that are identical in molecular structure to the hormones, in other words biologically identical, to what we make in our bodies. It is often referred to as natural hormone therapy. Specific hormones that are tied to aging begin to decline after the age of 35 and BHRT aims to increase or balance them. A decline in hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, thyroid and adrenal hormones contribute to the symptoms you might experience as your body undergoes menopause, perimenopause and andropause.

Signs Your Hormones are Shifting

Hormone production begins with puberty and increases until we peak in our late 20’s and early 30’s. Once the decline in hormone production begins (typically mid 30’s) the signs may not seem all that obvious. As we continue to age, no only do the number of symptoms of hormone loss continue to increase but become more prevalent. Signs that your hormones are shifting include:

Change in Menstrual Cycles, irregular periods
Lowered Sex Drive and Vaginal dryness
Unexplained Weight Gain/Bloating
Thinning Hair
Chronic Fatigue and Muscle Weakness
Dry Skin
Hot Flashes/Night Sweats
Brain Fog and Difficulty Remembering
Sleeplessness
Irritability and Mood Swings
Anxiety or Emotional Instability

Many of these symptoms can be addressed with proper nutrition, healthy diet and lifestyle. For those that have maintained a healthy lifestyle through their 20’s, 30’s and are now experiencing these types of symptoms and changes, may be related to a change in hormone production. Knowing which hormones you are lacking or over-producing is a specialty at Vitality Aesthetic & Regenerative Medicine. Gina Pastore, ARNP-BC, MSN, ABAAHP is a board-certified anti-aging specialist. Schedule a consultation today to discuss medical history and the benefits of BHRT for you. Most BHRT patients experience renewed energy, increased libido and overall sense of improved well-being just after beginning treatment. Let us help determine if it is right for you too.