Personalized therapy using hormones chemically identical to your body's own, derived from plants, to correct imbalances, often to ease menopause/andropause symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, and low libido, using delivery methods like pellets, creams, or injections for improved energy, sleep, and well-being, though research shows no proven benefit over standard hormones, requiring doctor consultation for safety.
Bioidentical: Hormones (estrogen, testosterone) have the exact molecular structure as those your body makes, unlike synthetic hormones.
Source: Derived from soy or yam plants and customized to your needs.
Optimization: Aims to restore levels to "optimal" ranges, alleviating symptoms of imbalances.
Delivery Methods: Often uses subcutaneous pellets (rice-sized, inserted under skin) for steady release, but also creams, gels, or injections.
Symptoms Addressed: Fatigue, mood swings, weight gain, low libido, brain fog, anxiety, insomnia, hot flashes, irregular periods.
Conditions Treated: Perimenopause, menopause, andropause (male menopause), thyroid/adrenal issues, osteoporosis.
Reported Benefits: Better mood, increased energy, improved sleep, mental clarity, weight management.
Customization: Therapy is tailored to individual hormone levels and needs via testing.
Results Timeline: Some feel relief in days, but full effects can take weeks to months.
Scientific Evidence: While popular, research hasn't shown compounded BHRT to be safer or more effective than FDA-approved, commercially available hormones, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Consult a Professional: Always discuss risks and benefits with a healthcare provider like Dr. Kam Friedrichs.
Reference: Good Samaritan Hospital in Vincennes, IN