Perimenopause is the time leading up to menopause when a woman’s ovaries gradually stop producing eggs. This transition usually begins in a woman’s 40s but can start in her 30s or even earlier.
During this time, women will often experience a slew of symptoms. And one way to treat these symptoms is with bioidentical hormone therapy.
What Is Bioidentical Hormone Therapy?
Bioidentical hormone therapy is a hormone replacement therapy that uses hormones that are identical to the ones the human body produces.
The way it works is that a doctor will determine the levels of hormones a woman has in her body. The doctor will then prescribe a bioidentical hormone therapy (BHRT) that matches the levels of hormones in her body.
The goal of BHRT is to restore hormone levels as close to what they were when a woman was in her 20s and 30s.
Doing this can provide relief from the symptoms of perimenopause.
What Does Bioidentical Hormone Therapy Treat?
Bioidentical hormone therapy treats all the symptoms that come with perimenopause and menopause.
It can relieve hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, fatigue, and depressed moods.
BHRT can also help with vaginal dryness, vaginal atrophy, and urinary incontinence.
BHRT is also used to treat other health conditions that are associated with menopause, such as osteoporosis and heart disease.
How Does Bioidentical Hormone Therapy Work?
Bioidentical hormone therapy works by supplying the body with hormones that it lacks.
The hormone levels in a woman’s body drop dramatically during perimenopause and menopause, which causes the symptoms she experiences. BHRT works by increasing the levels of these hormones in her body.
How Is BHRT Administered?
Your hormone physician will work with you to determine which BHRT treatment option is right for you. The most popular BHRT options are:
- Creams and gels
- Pills
- Pellets
- Injections
Creams and gels are a popular choice because they allow for a measured dose of hormone therapy to be applied directly to the skin, which is quickly absorbed. Creams and gels are easy to apply and are associated with fewer side effects than other treatments.
Pills are a very common hormone therapy option, but they must be taken regularly, which can be a challenge for some women. Many women find it difficult to remember to take a pill every day.
Pellet therapy is an excellent option for women who want to avoid the inconvenience of taking daily pills or applying creams or gels. Pellet therapy consists of tiny pellets that are inserted underneath the skin. These pellets release small doses of hormone therapy continuously, so you won’t have to worry about taking pills or applying creams or gels every day.
Injections are the most popular BHRT option in the United States. Injections are very convenient, and most women report that they can administer them themselves. The downside of injections is that some women report that they are painful and that the injections often leave bruises.
Final Thoughts
BHRT is a complex and sensitive subject, and it is important to work with a healthcare provider who is knowledgeable in the area. If you are interested in BHRT, are suffering from menopausal symptoms, or are interested in learning more, consider scheduling a consultation with your doctor.
Treat your perimenopausal symptoms with the help of Melinda Silva, MD. We are a bioidentical doctor in San Diego specializing in bioidentical hormones, weight loss, and CoolSculpting. Request a consultation today!
