Women and men considering hormone replacement therapy in our Baton Rouge and Metairie clinics often ask whether bioidentical or synthetic hormones are more beneficial and if one type is safer than the other. The answer is that patients can benefit from either type of hormone, and there’s little evidence to suggest that one type is safer than the other.
That’s why we offer both bioidentical and synthetic hormones at Rejuvime. In this blog post, we’ll explain the differences between the two types of hormones—and their similarities.
What’s the Difference?
The primary difference between bioidentical and synthetic hormones is how they’re produced. The term bioidentical indicates that these hormones are identical chemically to those produced naturally by our bodies and are made using plant or animal-based compounds. Synthetic hormones used in traditional hormone replacement therapy are made using urine from pregnant horses and other synthetic hormones.
Because pharmaceutical companies patent synthetic hormones, the molecular structure of the hormone is the same for each person undergoing HRT. Bioidentical hormones can be customized for a specific person.
Do the Differences Matter?
This is really the key question. Is one type of hormone more effective or safer than the other? The fact is all of the hormones we use for replacement therapy come from compounding pharmacies, where the hormones are custom-made for a patient according to the specifications we provide. This occurs with both bioidentical and synthetic hormones. Injectable testosterone used for hormone replacement therapy is always synthetic.
The Benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy
Each type of hormone has its benefits. Even though you may read or hear certain claims made about bioidentical hormone therapy, we believe both are effective options. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is not a “miracle cure.” For some, it is the best option when it’s part of a holistic approach to hormonal healing that includes a healthy diet, exercise, and stress-reduction.
Synthetic hormones can help women carry on when menopause symptoms interrupt their daily routines. And they can also help reduce the risk of osteoporosis and colon cancer.
Hormone replacement therapy—using either bioidentical or synthetic hormones—provides benefits for a range of individuals, from men with symptoms associated with low testosterone levels to women entering menopause to younger people with issues related to hormone imbalances.
For women, hormone replacement therapy can address concerns such as:
- Change in menstrual cycle
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Trouble sleeping
- Vaginal dryness
- Loss of libido
- Mood swings
- Weight gain
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory lapses
For men, hormone therapy can address concerns associated with aging, including:
- Low energy
- Decreased muscle mass
- Low libido
- Increased body fat of the upper and mid-section
- Mood changes
- Trouble sleeping
At Rejuvime, we want what is best for each patient and will recommend the hormone replacement therapy that most effectively addresses your needs. You can get more information by contacting us online or by calling our offices at (225) 960-1580 (Baton Rouge) or (504) 252-9579 (Metairie).
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