Bioidentical Hormones

Hormone Replacement Therapy is a complex topic. Thanks to the internet and the media, patients come into my office wondering if they should “be on hormones.” However, there is more to the story. One must understand the different types of hormones in the body, the types of natural hormone replacement therapies, and how to safely administer these hormones.

Steroidogenic Hormones

First, it is important to understand that all these hormones (estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone) are made from cholesterol; hence they are called the Steroidogenic Hormones. But they are also commonly referred to as our “sex hormones.”

Types of Hormone Therapy

Once a woman stops ovulating and having a monthly cycle, these hormones start to diminish. There are many available “hormone replacement therapy” options on the market. They can be broken down into two categories: “Bio-Identical” or “Non-Bio-identical.” Bio-Identical hormones are hormones whose molecular structure is identical to the version made by the human body. Non-Bio-Identical hormones are hormones whose molecular structure is slightly different than the human form. They usually have the same effect, but since they are not identical to the human version, they can have some other dangerous side effects.

Forms of Hormone Therapy

• Creams
• Suppositories
• Capsules
• Injections
• Implantable Pellets

Are You Feeling Less Than Optimal? Check Out Our Hormone Symptom Guide to See if You Might Have Signs of Excess or Deficient Hormones.

Risks Associated with Hormone Replacement Therapy

As with any medical treatment, there are risks associated with hormone replacement therapy. It is important that your doctor explain these risks to you and discuss how you can lower your risks. It is also important to know that there is much controversy and variation in these risks depending on the type of hormone used (bio-identical or non-bioidentical), the route of administration (oral, topical cream, sublingual, etc.), and the preventative measures one can take to lower these risks. Generally, the possible risks are increased clotting and cancer. Naturopathic medicine offers a variety of advanced testing to monitor for these risks as well as therapeutics to reduce them.