What is BHRT? A Beginner’s Guide

BHRT, or bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, uses hormones that are chemically identical to those your body naturally produces. BHRT is used to alleviate symptoms of hormonal imbalances.

Hormones are essential in regulating numerous functions in your body, from mood and energy levels to metabolism and reproductive health. As we age, hormone levels naturally fluctuate. These hormonal changes can lead to a variety of symptoms, such as fatigue, mood swings, weight gain, decreased libido, and sleep disturbances.

While these shifts in hormone levels are a natural part of aging, they can significantly impact your overall well-being and quality of life. This is where BHRT comes in. With its ability to balance hormone levels, BHRT has gained popularity as a personalized, effective solution for addressing the symptoms caused by hormonal fluctuations.

Let’s dive deeper into what BHRT is, how it works, and what you need to know if you're considering it as an option to alleviate symptoms of hormonal imbalance.

BHRT uses bioidentical hormones that are lab-created and derived from plant sources to restore hormonal balance. The term "bioidentical" indicates that these hormones are chemically identical to those your body produces.

This similarity allows them to replicate the function of the hormones naturally present in your body. Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are among the most commonly used hormones in BHRT.

Some prescription forms of bioidentical hormones are made by pharmaceutical companies and approved by the FDA. Other versions, known as custom-compounded bioidentical hormones, are created by pharmacists based on a healthcare provider's specific prescription.

At Inception Telehealth & Wellness, we offer both FDA-approved options as well as compounded formulations based on your health profile and hormonal needs.

Traditional hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is different from BHRT. Traditional HRT typically utilizes synthetic hormones that may not be identical in structure to the body's natural hormones. The hormones used in traditional HRT are derived from the urine of pregnant horses and other non-bioidentical sources.

While supporters of BHRT claim that it is a more "natural" and safer alternative to traditional HRT, it's essential to understand that both therapies carry potential risks and benefits.

While BHRT involves the administration of external hormones to restore balance, natural hormone boosters focus on lifestyle modifications to support your body's hormone production. These methods may include:

• Diet: Consuming a balanced diet rich in whole foods, healthy fats, and lean proteins can support your overall health.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity, including strength training and aerobic exercises, can help regulate hormone levels.
• Sleep: Prioritizing quality sleep is crucial, as poor sleep can disrupt hormone production.
• Stress Management: Practices such as meditation, yoga, and deep-breathing exercises can reduce stress hormones and promote balance.

While these natural approaches can be beneficial, they may not be sufficient for those with significant hormone imbalances. At Inception Telehealth & Wellness, we incorporate lifestyle modifications as a complementary approach along with BHRT to boost the effectiveness of the therapy.

BHRT helps increase the levels of the hormones that have dropped and improve moderate to severe symptoms of hormonal imbalance, including:

• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Fatigue
• Mood swings
• Sleep disturbances
• Weight gain
• Low libido 
• Brain fog
• Skin and hair issues
• Weakness and muscle loss

These symptoms are often associated with menopause in women but can occur in various contexts. Please make sure to consult with our provider to determine the underlying cause of these symptoms and to discuss whether BHRT is an appropriate treatment option.

The safety and effectiveness of BHRT depend on factors such as dosage and individual health factors. Bioidentical hormones are available as both FDA-approved standard solutions as well as custom compounded formulations personalized for your unique needs.

As with any hormone therapy, you may experience some temporary side effects as your body adjusts to the new hormone levels. These symptoms often improve as treatment progresses and your body adjusts to the new hormone level.

Possible side effects of bioidentical hormones may include:

• Weight gain
• Blurred vision
• Fatigue
• Acne
• Increased facial hair
• Headaches
• Breast tenderness
• Spotting
• Cramping
• Bloating
• Mood swings

Regular check-ups and open communication with our provider are essential for optimizing your treatment. By monitoring your progress and making necessary adjustments, we can help you reach optimal hormone levels while minimizing the chance of side effects.

BHRT offers a promising solution for women experiencing hormone imbalances, providing relief from symptoms and improving overall well-being. At Inception Telehealth & Wellness, our team takes a patient-centric approach to ensure your BHRT journey is safe, effective, and tailored to your unique needs.

Contact Inception Telehealth & Wellness at +1 866-603-2760 or request a consultation online to learn how BHRT can help improve your overall health.