Between 1.5 and 2 million American women 40 and older use bioidentical hormone therapy (BHRT) to manage perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms. The treatment uses lab-made hormones that closely mimic those produced by the body to ease hot flashes, brain fog, and other changes that come with the menopause transition.
Despite the increase in popularity, myths about BHRT abound. So much so that some women avoid it altogether, continuing to suffer through frustrating symptoms without support.
At Metro Health and Wellness in Marietta, Georgia, and Nashville, Tennessee, menopause specialist Kirstie Cunningham, MD, FACOG, NCMP, regularly prescribes BHRT. Here, she clears up common misconceptions so that you can determine whether it’s right for you.
Not all types of BHRT are FDA-approved. However, many are. The ones that aren’t FDA-approved, called compounded BHRT, are custom-made by licensed pharmacies based on your doctor’s instructions.
Compounded BHRT isn’t subject to the same level of testing and review as FDA-approved options, so partnering with a qualified provider, like Dr. Cunningham, is essential.
It’s a common belief that only traditional hormone therapy (HRT) is safe, but BHRT is grounded in science and backed by decades of research. In fact, bioidentical means that the hormones used match those your body naturally produces.
Because many women don’t tolerate synthetic hormones, BHRT provides a more natural alternative. It can also be administered in various dosages, helping you and Dr. Cunningham find the right levels for your unique needs.
Synthetic HRT presents various side effects, including headaches, bloating, nausea, and breast tenderness. These issues typically improve over time, but for many women, they remain a challenge.
Patients who choose BHRT, on the other hand, often experience fewer side effects. Since the hormones mimic those naturally produced in your body, many report that BHRT is easier to manage, although more research is still needed. Additionally, BHRT can be tailored to your specific health history and lab results. This customization creates a more strategic plan designed to help you feel your best.
BHRT is making lots of headlines these days, but it isn’t false publicity. The treatment is science-backed and offers real relief for women suffering from symptoms of hormonal imbalance, a common change that happens with age. To see if you’re a candidate, contact us. Call our Marietta or Nashville office or book your appointment online today.
