Myths about bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) prevent many women and men from taking advantage of the health benefits provided by BHRT. Hormone therapy, while on the rise in popularity, still maintains a somewhat unfavorable view primarily due to the idea that the use of estrogens causes an increased risk for strokes, heart attack, heart disease, and breast cancer. I want to emphasize that this is a myth. Bioidentical hormones are derived from plant-based substances that are the exact molecular structure of hormones naturally produced by the body. Cells in the body that contain receptors for hormones readily accept and utilize bioidentical hormones to relieve symptoms of menopause and testosterone loss in men.
1. Only Women Benefit from BHRT.
BHRT is not just for perimenopausal or menopausal women, although very beneficial for that category. Men also experience symptoms of testosterone loss in their 40s and 50s as they stop producing adequate amounts of testosterone. BHRT can help men reduce signs of low testosterone such as low sex drive, lack of energy, moodiness and loss of muscle mass.
2. BHRT Causes Weight Gain.
Bioidentical hormone therapy does not cause you to gain weight. It can actually be the opposite in most cases. BHRT balances hormones to optimize metabolism, increase energy levels and regulate hormones involved in appetite. If you are having trouble losing weight even though you are eating right and exercising regularly, BHRT may be able to help you shed off those extra pounds.
3. BHRT Does Not Work for Women Experiencing Clinically Induced Menopause.
Surgical removal of the ovaries causes symptoms of menopause regardless of a woman’s age at the time of removal. Removing the ovaries mean removing the very organ that creates estrogen. Hot flashes, insomnia, moodiness, body aches, brain fog and other signs of menopause indicate the same hormone imbalance and hormone deficiencies seen in women going through natural menopause. BHRT can most certainly, help women regain their physical and cognitive health after removal of ovaries. Estrogen therapy actually comes with its own benefits, such as prevention of osteoporosis, heart disease, and breast cancer.
4. BHRT Carries the Same Risks as Traditional Hormone Therapies.
Bioidentical hormones are called just that because they contain no chemicals that are foreign to the human body. These compounded hormones have been tested for safety and quality.
5. Bioidentical Hormone Therapy is Available Only as an Injection.
False. BHRT is offered in the form of pea-sized pellets that release controlled amounts of bioidentical hormones, so you don’t have to remember to take pills, use creams, or receive injections, although those are all options as well. The process of inserting pellets under the skin is painless and just takes a few minutes. Replacement of pellets is needed about three to four times a year. After debunking these popular myths, it is safe to say that bioidentical hormone therapy is life-changing and beneficial to one’s health.
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