What Is BHRT?
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) is the use of hormones that are identical to the endogenous hormones naturally made in the human body. The hormones used are identical to the endogenous hormones at the molecular level. The hormones that are commonly employed in BHRT include estradiol, progesterone, and estrone. These hormones can be found in both FDA-approved manufactured products as well as extemporaneous preparations from a pharmacy.
Other hormones include testosterone and dihydrotestosterone, but the availability of these two is limited in some countries such as Canada and the USA. Estriol is not approved in the USA and Canada. However, it can be found in other nations in Europe. BHRT is considered an alternative medicine. This form of treatment has been promoted for the treatment of different diseases, as well as relieving menopausal symptoms. BHRT can also be used in minimizing the risk of osteoporosis.
The Use Of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy For Menopause Relief
According to the Australian Menopause Society, there is no adequate scientific evidence to show the effectiveness of BHRT in the treatment of menopausal symptoms. The health society also claims that the product's safety and possible adverse effects are not adequately explained. No scientific documentation explains the possible interactions between BHRT preparations and other drugs that may be taken together.
However, a study was conducted by researchers from Case Western Reserve University and McGill University. The study had 25 women participants who were using the Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy to manage their menopausal symptoms. The women revealed to the researchers that they relied on BHRT to treat their menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes and vaginal dryness. Some of the participants believe that BHRT is safe from risks that are associated with the conventional HRT, such as uterus cancer and heart diseases. However, there is no scientific evidence to back this argument.
Dr. Sonia Davison, who is an endocrinologist at Jean Hailes, suggests that most women do not know that the hormones used in conventional HRT are the same ones in BHRT. Both hormones are identical to the endogenous hormones produced in the human body. The endocrinologist also explains that the progesterone hormone present in BHRT is poorly absorbed in the body. The hormone is necessary for women who still have a functional uterus. It prevents the uterus lining from thickening, lowering the risk of cancer.
According to the FDA, the extemporaneous methods used to prepare BHRT vary from one pharmacy to another. As a result, women may be administered inconsistent amounts of the hormonal therapy.
However, according to the International Academy of Compounding Pharmacies, there are national guidelines that regulate the compounding pharmacies at the states level.
The North American Menopause Society recommends that BHRT should only be used by women who cannot tolerate the FDA-approved conventional HRT. The FDA also raised concern about the saliva testing method applied by the compounding pharmacies. The health organization says that hormone levels in the body can vary even in one day and hence the method is not useful.
Benefits of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
1. BHRT May Help In Promoting Bone Health
Studies have revealed that testosterone and estrogen play a crucial role in preventing bone loss. Research studies suggest that compounds that contain the two hormones may help in reducing osteoporosis risk. The Women's Health Initiative revealed that BHRT reduced fractures that are common to the hip bone. However, there is no scientific documentation to prove these claims.
2. BHRT May Help In Boosting Energy Levels In The Body
Low levels of progesterone in the body might make DHE and testosterone tied to the low energy levels. The use of BHRT may improve mental health and improve one’s sleep pattern. However, the Cochrane Database of Systemic Reviews states that there is no evidence to show the effect of estrogen on body weight and body mass index.
3. Hormone Replacement Therapy Can Improve Menopausal Symptoms
Some clinical studies have revealed that BHRT can be effective in relieving symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats. A study that was conducted in the year 2001 found out that hormone replacement therapy is effective in alleviating night sweats and hot flashes. The hormone replacement therapy also lowered the severity of symptoms.
4. BHRT Can Reduce Vaginal Dryness
Vaginal atrophy is commonly observed in menopausal and pre-menopausal women. Symptoms include vaginal dryness, pain during intercourse, and irritating and burning discharge.
5. Increased Skin Elasticity
The estrogen hormone is required for the formation of collagen in the body. Low levels of collagen make the skin appear dry and wrinkled. Collagen is a requirement for the youthful appearance of the skin.
Risks and Side Effects Associated With BHRT
When a pharmaceutical company manufactures a drug, the FDA requires the company to report on any side effects the users tell them. The pharmacies that compound BHRT preparations do not report side effects to the FDA. As a result, it is believed that the use of BHRT is safe although there is no evidence to prove the claim.
However, certain side effects may occur when the therapy is first introduced in the body. The initial dose may require an adjustment because the body needs time to adjust to the new levels of hormones. Some adverse reactions may be observed due to the presence of a particular hormone in the mixture. The adverse effects improve as the body gets used to the new hormones.
Common Side Effects
· Gastrointestinal side effects: bloating, abdominal cramps, indigestion, nausea, and vomiting. The effects in the digestive tract can be reduced by taking the estrogen dose with food.
· Central nervous effects: patients may complain of headaches, fatigue, and mood swings. Patients may experience blurred vision.
· Other common side effects: skin disorders such as acne or increased facial hair, especially in women. Patients may also present with breast tenderness. The effect on the breast can be minimized by consuming a diet that is low in fats. Increased carbohydrate intake may also reduce the risk of breast tenderness.
Bioidentical Hormonal Replacement Therapy Conclusion
Bioidentical Hormonal Replacement Therapy is considered a natural form of hormonal replacement therapy because the compounds used are chemically identical to the endogenous hormones. There is no sufficient evidence to confirm the effectiveness and risks of BHRT. However, the risk of any hormonal replacement therapy will depend on the method of preparation. It is important for the patient to work closely with their medical practitioner or a specialist in menopausal health to find the best option for their condition.
