Are You Ready For HRT?

Hormones play a crucial role in the body’s health and well-being, including fertility, vitality, and much more. Over time, however, hormone levels can change, particularly estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. Some hormones decrease due to menopause, while others are affected by environmental changes, stress, or certain diseases. Whatever the reason, losing these hormones brings a host of unwanted symptoms and a poor quality of life. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is one of the best ways to supplement lost hormones. Today there are natural and bioidentical hormones to choose from.

How does HRT work?

People who need HRT will first notice changes in the body. Some of these symptoms include low libido, low energy, erectile dysfunction, weight gain, night sweats, and hair loss. The doctor or hormone specialist will test the patient’s hormone levels before suggesting HRT. Based on the results, the doctor will supply HRT as testosterone for men and estrogen and progesterone for women. HRT can come in pill, pellet, topical, or patch form. Consistent use should provide noticeable improvements in symptoms.

The natural approach

When HRT was first conceived, scientists created synthetic forms of the missing hormones. Now, there are hormones made using other compounds and components. For example, natural hormone replacement therapy uses supplements and compounds to relieve symptoms of hormone imbalance. These natural hormones exist in plants, roots, tubers, beans, and other sources. The symptoms improve by consuming supplements with these properties, like phytoestrogens, black cohosh, valerian root, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Bioidentical HRT

When a person chooses bioidentical hormones, the product is a manufactured version of estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone. Bioidentical hormones are similar to actual hormones made in the body. However, these hormones are made in laboratories using ingredients, mainly plants, that mimic the exact molecular makeup of what the body produces. Bioidentical hormones are produced with compounding, allowing doctors and pharmacists to deliver specific doses that are more effective for the patient.

What’s the difference?

With natural HRT, doctors cannot guarantee the effectiveness of the treatment. Supplements impact different people in different ways. Hormone levels also fluctuate daily, so natural HRT may be less potent daily. A distinct advantage, however, is that patients can try a natural treatment with little to no side effects. For example, a common concern with HRT is the increased risk of certain cancers, blood clots, stroke, and heart disease. With a natural approach, this risk is eliminated. Bioidentical HRT mimics the actual hormones in the body, significantly improving the chances of success.

Improve your life with HRT

There’s no need to suffer in silence. Effects of low hormone production can negatively affect the quality of life. Both men and women deserve more vitality, energy, and a reduction in unpleasant symptoms. With HRT, the body can get a much-needed boost of hormones. Natural HRT is an adequate entry-level treatment. However, bioidentical HRT can supply long-term, meaningful results. Hormones can also be customized for the patient’s needs. Look for the signs and speak with a doctor for more guidance.