How to Get Bioidentical Hormones
As women go through menopause and find themselves dealing with hot flashes, night sweats, irritability, weight gain, and all of the other symptoms from the fluctuating change in hormones, they often seek relief from these imbalances. The traditional hormone replacement therapy is a premixed, synthetic compound of drugs designed with a one-fits-all mindset. After evaluating the risks, many women opt to do nothing or find out exactly what their bodies need and have natural hormonal replacement compounded specifically for them.
Celebrities Suzanne Somers and Oprah Winfrey have been outspoken about their personal experiences with menopause and treating the symptoms with biodentical hormones. In spite of the controversy of pharmaceutical companies and certain doctors questioning the safety of their use, millions of women have demanded help. As a result, compounding pharmacies are busy filling orders to help women get their lives back and feel good again.
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Instructions
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Educate yourself about the differences between bioidentical and synthetic hormones. There has been some speculation that Provera, a synthetic progesterone, my cause an increase of breast cancer. An estrogen replacement therapy, Premarin, is derived from pregnant horse urine. Mixed, these drugs are called Prempro---a combination that is now seldom used. Bioidentical hormones are made from natural plant substances and designed to match those produced by women's bodies.
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Find a doctor who understands bioidentical hormone therapy, is willing to work with you and will test your hormone levels. After a complete workup of your blood, you can find out your progesterone, estrogen, DHEA, and testosterone levels.
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The doctor will then prescribe a compound based on the balance of hormones your body needs. This is done at a compounding pharmacy, either in your area or online.
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Consult with your doctor about a regular schedule of checkups to test hormone levels and evaluate your condition.
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Tips & Warnings
Some pharmaceutical companies claim that specially formulated bioidentical hormone therapy is dangerous because there is no FDA regulation. Suzanne Somers has been attacked by those companies and other medical professionals whose business has been affected or don't understand women's need to be empowered over their bodies. "The people attacking Suzanne Somers are saying that bioidentical hormones are dangerous, or at least as dangerous as synthetic HRT," according to Marcy Holmes, NP, Certified Menopause Clinician. She adds, "While the evidence isn't perfect, what we know to date clearly shows the risks of bioidentical hormones are lower than conventional HRT." Marcelle Pick who was instrumental in bringing bioidentical hormones to the US claims to have seen very few side effects.
