BHRT for Natural Menopause Symptom Relief

Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. It is characterized by a decrease in the production of the ovarian hormone’s estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. This decrease in hormone levels can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood swings, sleep disturbances, mid-line weight gain, and a decline in sexual desire. Fortunately, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can offer relief from these symptoms and improve overall health and quality of life.

What is BHRT?

BHRT (Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy) involves the use of hormones that are structurally identical to the hormones naturally produced by the body. This is in contrast to traditional hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which often uses synthetic hormones that are similar but not identical to natural hormones. BHRT is typically administered in the form of a cream, oral capsule, or under the tongue tablet called a “reditab”.

BHRT should be administered by a qualified and experienced physician with experience in the use of bioidentical hormones. The key to successful use of bioidentical hormones is using the right amounts of hormone replacement in the right balance while carefully following blood levels to determine what is needed for each individual since no two women are alike.

BHRT & Menopause

One of the main benefits of BHRT is its ability to alleviate menopausal symptoms. Studies have shown that BHRT can effectively reduce hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and other symptoms associated with menopause. Unlike traditional HRT, which has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, BHRT has not been shown to have this association.

Health Benefits of BHRT

In addition to relieving menopausal symptoms, BHRT can also provide a range of other health benefits. For example, BHRT can help to prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to become brittle and weak. This is because estrogen plays a key role in bone health, and a decrease in estrogen levels during menopause can lead to a loss of bone density. BHRT can help to restore estrogen levels and prevent this bone loss.

BHRT can also improve cardiovascular health by reducing the risk of heart disease. Estrogen has been shown to have a protective effect on the cardiovascular system, and a decrease in estrogen levels during menopause can increase the risk of heart disease. BHRT can help to restore estrogen levels and reduce this risk.

Another benefit of BHRT is its ability to improve cognitive function. Studies have shown that estrogen can help to improve memory, attention, and other cognitive functions, and a decrease in estrogen levels during menopause can lead to cognitive decline. BHRT can help to restore estrogen levels and improve cognitive function while also protecting against neurodegenerative diseases as women age.

BHRT can also improve sexual function by increasing libido and reducing vaginal dryness. A decrease in estrogen levels during menopause can lead to a loss of sexual desire and discomfort during intercourse. BHRT can help to restore estrogen levels and improve sexual function.

Finally, BHRT can help to improve overall quality of life by reducing the physical and emotional symptoms of menopause. By alleviating hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and other symptoms, BHRT can help women feel more comfortable and confident during this transitional period of their lives.

Candidates for Menopause BHRT

It is important to note that BHRT is not appropriate for all women. Women with a history of breast cancer, blood clots, or certain other medical conditions may not be good candidates for BHRT. It is also important to work with a qualified physician who can evaluate each individual for the appropriate use of bioidentical hormones and monitor hormone levels and adjust treatment as needed.

Since  bioidentical hormone replacement therapy may not be appropriate for all women, Integrative medicine becomes important as it offers a wide range of natural and complementary therapies that can be used to support hormonal balance and alleviate menopausal symptoms if hormone support is not an option. These therapies may include nutritional supplements, herbal remedies, acupuncture, massage, and mind-body practices such as yoga and meditation. Integrative physicians have training and experience in these therapies and can help you determine which ones may be most effective for you.

Choosing a Menopause Doctor for BHRT

No two women experience menopause in exactly the same way, which is why it’s important to work with an integrative physician who can tailor your treatment plan to your specific needs and preferences. Integrative physicians take a personalized approach to treatment, which means that they will work with you to develop a plan that takes into account your unique medical and family history, lifestyle, and health goals.

Menopause is a natural biological process that can cause a wide range of symptoms and health issues. BHRT can offer relief from these symptoms and provide a range of other health benefits.  If you are experiencing menopausal symptoms or are concerned about your hormone levels, schedule an appointment with Ruthie Harper MD and Tyler Young NP in Austin, TX to see if BHRT may be a good option for you.

Menopause Doctor for BHRT | Austin: (512) 343-9355

Written by Ruthie Harper MD and Tyler Young NP, Integrative Medicine Specialists