For many women who start noticing symptoms of (peri)menopause the question they ask themselves is should I take BHRT? At the Marion Gluck Clinic we are experts in hormone health and BHRT treatment. So, if you are considering whether hormone replacement therapy is right for you or want to find out more about BHRT then read our guide below.
What is BHRT?
BHRT, or Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, is a hormone treatment used as an alternative to HRT. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy uses natural hormones, extracted from yams, that are directly identical to the chemical structure of the hormones our bodies produce naturally.
When should I start bioidentical hormone therapy?
BHRT is most commonly used to treat perimenopause and menopause symptoms, however, you may also consider starting bioidentical hormone replacement therapy for conditions like PMS, PCOS, and endometriosis for women, or andropause for men.
There isn’t a specific age to start BHRT as it depends on the individual. You may consider starting BHRT if you are experiencing symptoms of hormone imbalance, such as changes in mood, energy, sleep, or other physical signs that are affecting your quality of life.
The best way to determine whether you should start BHRT treatment is to speak with a hormone doctor, who can review your symptoms and guide you based on your hormone profile.
If you’re unsure whether you should start BHRT, our team at the Marion Gluck Clinic can help. You can learn more about the conditions we treat and how BHRT could support your wellbeing.
What are the benefits and risks of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy?
People suffering from hormone imbalances often experience uncomfortable and sometimes intolerable symptoms. Research has shown that the overall quality of life amongst those who have begun BHRT has improved by 52%.
Reported benefits of BHRT from the study included:
- Night Sweats dropped from 59% to 15% of patients.
- Tension and Nervousness reduced from 54% to 14%.
- Sleep Difficulties reduced from 81% to 29%.
- Feeling tired or lacking in energy decreased from 80% to 38%.
- Loss of interest in sex decreased from 75% of patients to 40%.
- Irritability dropped from 54% to 20% of patients.
Overall, BHRT is an extremely safe and effective treatment for addressing hormone imbalance in both men and women. Many people choose BHRT as an alternative to HRT as it can be better tolerated with less side effects for many patients.
Common side effects are:
- Temporary bloating or breast tenderness
- Mild headaches
- Nausea
- Skin irritation with topical applications
Some patients may experience side effects at the beginning of BHRT, which often diminish over time as the body adjusts to the treatment.
“Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is about restoring balance and helping people feel like themselves again. When tailored to each individual, BHRT can transform energy levels, mood, and overall wellbeing.” – Dr Jennifer Singh
Next steps
If you are wishing to talk to one of our doctors about your symptoms, or to find out more about the benefits of BHRT, book an appointment now. Our team of doctors specialise in hormone replacement treatment and are here to help you feel like yourself again.
