HRT/Bio-identical Hormone Therapy

What is Menopause?

Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of awoman’s reproductive years. It is defined as the point in time when awoman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. Thistransition typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, with an averageonset around age 52.

What are the Stages of Menopause?

Menopause is not an event that happens suddenly; rather, it occurs in stages:

Perimenopause: This is the transitional phase leading up to menopause, which can last several years. During this time, women may experience irregular menstrual cycles and various symptoms due to fluctuating hormone levels.
Menopause: This stage is reached when a woman has gone 12 months without a menstrual period. At this point, the ovaries cease to release eggs and produce hormones such as estrogen and progesterone.
Postmenopause: After reaching menopause, women enter postmenopause, which lasts for the rest of their lives. During this phase, symptoms may continue but often diminish over time.
Postsurgical Menopause: Women who undergo complete hysterectomy with removal of the ovaries is referred to as postsurgical menopause.

What are the symptoms of menopause?

The hormonal changes associated with menopause can lead to various physical and emotional symptoms, including:

Irregular periods
Hot flashes and night sweats
Vaginal dryness and discomfort during intercourse
Mood swings, anxiety, or depression
Sleep disturbances
Changes in libido
Weight gain
Brain fog and memory problems
Accelerated effects of aging

These symptoms can vary significantly from one woman to another in terms of severity and duration.

What are the Health Implications Post-Menopause?

After menopause, women face increased risks for certain health conditions due to lower estrogen levels. These include:

Osteoporosis: A condition characterized by weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures.
Cardiovascular disease: The risk for heart disease increases after menopause due to changes in cholesterol levels and other factors.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through diet, exercise, and regular medical check-ups is essential for managing these risks.

What is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)?

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) refers to the use of hormones that are chemically identical to those produced naturally by thehuman body. These hormones are typically derived from plant sources and are processed to ensure they are identical to the natural hormones found in our bodies. The most common bioidentical hormones are: Estradiol, Estriol, Progesterone and Testosterone.

What are the Benefits of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)?

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) offers several benefits, particularly for individuals experiencing hormonal imbalances due to aging, menopause, or other health conditions. Here are the key advantages:

Mimics Natural Hormones: BHRT uses hormones that are chemically identical to those produced by the human body. This similarity can lead to fewer side effects compared to synthetic hormones and allows for a more seamless integration into the body’s hormonal system.
Alleviates Menopausal Symptoms: For women undergoing menopause, BHRT can significantly reduce uncomfortable symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness. By restoring estrogen and progesterone levels, many women experience relief from these distressing symptoms.
Enhances Sexual Function: As hormone levels decline with age, many individuals experience reduced libido and sexual dysfunction. BHRT can help restore hormonal balance, leading to improved sexual desire and function.
Improves Mood and Mental Clarity: Hormonal imbalances can contribute to mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. BHRT may help stabilize mood swings and enhance mental clarity by restoring optimal hormone levels.
Supports Bone Health: Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density. By using BHRT to restore estrogen levels in postmenopausal women, there may be a reduction in the risk of osteoporosis and related fractures.
Promotes Better Sleep Quality: Hormonal fluctuations can disrupt sleep patterns. BHRT may help regulate hormones that influence sleep cycles, leading to improved sleep quality and overall well-being.
Increases Energy Levels: Many individuals report increased energy levels after starting BHRT due to restored hormonal balance, which can enhance overall vitality and productivity throughout the day.
Aids in Weight Management: Some studies suggest that balanced hormone levels can assist with weight management by regulating metabolism and reducing fat accumulation associated with hormonal imbalances.
Improves Skin Health: Restoring hormone levels through BHRT may improve skin elasticity and hydration, potentially reducing signs of aging such as wrinkles.

In summary, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy offers a range of benefits primarily aimed at alleviating symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances while promoting overall health and well-being.

What are the bioidentical hormone treatment options?

Bioidentical hormones come in various forms, allowing for flexibility in how they are administered. A Rejuva professional will help you decide what treatment option is best for you:

Pills: Oral tablets that contain bioidentical hormones.
Creams: Topical applications that are absorbed through the skin.
Gels: Similar to creams but typically have a different consistency; they also absorb through the skin.
Injections: Hormones delivered via syringe directly into the muscle or under the skin.
Implanted Pellets: Small pellets inserted under the skin that release hormones gradually over several months.

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