WHAT IS BIO-IDENTICAL HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY?
Bio-identical hormones are identical in structure to the hormones made by your body. They are a safer and more natural alternative to synthetic hormone replacement.
When natural levels of hormones (such as estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, thyroid hormone and DHEA) decline, BHRT can be used to restore hormonal balance in men and women.
HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY
WHO NEEDS BIO-IDENTICAL HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY?
Hormone imbalances are increasingly common and can occur in men and women. As you age, your natural hormone production will decline and can lead to symptoms of menopause in women and andropause in men.
Symptoms of hormone imbalance in men and women are varied and can include: hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain, insomnia, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, low energy, memory loss, hair loss, loss of lean muscle mass, PMS and painful periods, irregular periods, fertility issues, adult acne, endometriosis, fibroids, ovarian cysts, abnormal hair growth, thyroid dysfunction, bone loss, anxiety and depression.
These issues can often be resolved using dietary and lifestyle modifications, herbal medicine and supplements but some people will require BHRT for resolution of their symptoms.
HOW ARE HORMONE LEVELS TESTED?
There are several ways of testing your hormone levels, including blood, urine and salivary hormone testing. All these tests are offered at Port Moody Health. The test method chosen depends on your age, symptoms and other factors. During your initial consultation with one of our naturopathic physicians, we will determine which testing is required, and subsequently customize a treatment plan suited to your needs. Read more about our hormone testing.
