When people suffer from low hormone levels, naturally produced by our bodies, doctors most often recommend taking bioidentical hormones as a course of treatment. As the name indicates, these hormones are artificial in nature and biologically identical to hormones the human body produces on its own. The term used to address the process of balancing hormone levels through this approach is bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, so today, we will talk in more detail about the treatment process itself. 

My OBGYN Specialists clinic is one of the places where patients can get bioidentical hormone therapy, alongside consultations and guidance. Hormones regulate numerous processes in our bodies, so it is of crucial importance for patients to be monitored and guided by experienced, knowledgeable specialists in this field. 

Bioidentical Hormones 101

Plate Bioidentical Hormones and Chemical Models From Plastic.

So, in order for you to understand the bioidentical hormone therapy side effects and its significance, it is important to explain the basics around bioidentical hormones. As mentioned, they are artificially made hormones that are created to act like the hormones our bodies produce in the glands. Many people who have taken these hormones have struggled with low hormone levels, misbalanced hormones, or have experienced heavy symptoms of perimenopause or menopause. 

The endocrine glands are the producers of hormones, which are, in their essence, chemicals. They serve as messengers to other body parts, telling them when and how to work. Because hormones control so many different bodily functions, the smallest issue in their functioning can cause severe issues for the person’s well-being. These issues are most often remedied by hormone replacement therapy, including bioidentical hormone therapy or BHRT. 

Hormones used for BHRT usually come from plants, and the most common types of bioidentical hormones made are progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone. Drug companies often produce these hormones, but sometimes pharmacists create them based on the doctor’s perception to fit patients’ particular needs. These are seen as mixed or compound bioidentical hormones. The downside of this type of approach is that they are not tested and approved by state regulations, so it might be risky to start taking them. 

Bioidentical hormones come in different forms and dosages, such as gels, creams, pills, sprays, vaginal implants, patches, shots, etc. Dosage and form will be prescribed for you by a doctor who is aware of your medical history and needs, so please do not choose the dosage on your own. 

What is also important to mention and what your chosen doctor will pay attention to are health conditions that might stop you from trying this type of hormonal therapy. Every doctor needs to weigh all the benefits and risks that follow this decision. Many hormones are not approved by legal regulations, so there are certain risks you need to be aware of. That said, here are some conditions which might be a reason not to start bioidentical hormones:

  • Blood clotting issues 
  • Cardiovascular or heart diseases 
  • Breast cancer 
  • Strokes

Why Would I Take Bioidentical Hormones?

Although some types of artificially made hormones carry certain risks during consumption, some benefits are crucial for people because they take care of severe symptoms that have a very negative, disruptive effect on their daily life. 

Most symptoms are derived from low hormone levels, and they include:

  • Night sweats 
  • Dryness of the vagina
  • Hot flashes
  • Lack of libido 
  • Pain during sexual intercourse 
  • Issues with sleep 
  • Lack of energy
  • Fatigue 
  • Mood switches 
  • Gaining weight 
  • Confusion 
  • Loss of memory 

In order to stop the reoccurrence of these symptoms, which most often happen during perimenopause or menopause in women, patients take bioidentical hormones, which increase the hormone levels. Many experts are debating whether conventional hormone therapy is better and safer than compound hormones due to the lack of research and formal confirmation of their safety, so it is best to speak to your doctor and hear about all possible options. 

Bioidentical Hormone Therapy Side Effects and Risks 

As mentioned above, certain bioidentical hormones are not legally approved and considered safe for usage. Many studies have also shown that there are certain risks when it comes to this type of treatment, such as the risk of blood clots, strokes, breast cancer, etc., especially if you are older or use the therapy for an extended period. 

Some types of bioidentical hormones have been officially approved and tested for safety. They passed all the necessary standards and are deemed safe to use. But, regardless of this fact, specific side effects are tied to hormone usage, and below we have gathered some information that will be useful to you in deciding the direction of your treatment. 

Side effects are something almost all approved medications can cause, and it is legally required for pharmaceutical companies to note that on their products. Regarding bioidentical hormone therapy side effects, they might occur almost immediately after the first dosage because our bodies are experiencing something new, and they are not used to certain changes in levels of hormones. 

As the body adjusts to the new change, the side effects slowly disappear, and if they do not, that indicates that the dosage chosen for your therapy is not suitable for you. The most common side effects include:

  • Blurry vision 
  • Fatigue
  • Gaining weight 
  • Acne 
  • Facial hair increase 
  • Tenderness in the breasts 
  • Headaches 
  • Cramps
  • Vaginal spotting 
  • Bloating 
  • Mood changes 
  • Redness or itchiness in the area of hormone application (if you use cream, gel, or patch)

Talk to Your Chosen Doctor

Doctor Examining Woman Adult Patient

There are many different myths about the effectiveness and safety of bioidentical hormones, especially when we are speaking about compound hormone therapy. People also often ask whether hormone therapy works and what they can expect, but the answer to these questions is that this type of treatment works on some people.

As with any other treatment path, different people react to the therapy differently, depending on their age, health status, symptoms, and other idiosyncrasies. Speaking to your chosen doctor openly about your expectations and issues will help you select the right option and remove any potential suspicion and fear. 

Taking artificial hormones might sound scary because almost all of us are aware of how crucial hormones are for the proper functioning of our bodies, so any intervention in this area feels scary and dangerous. 

This is why doctors should be there for you for advice, consultation, and guidance. Feel free to share any concerns with them, especially if it is your first time deciding to try bioidentical hormone therapy. 

We Are Here for You!

Clinics like ours exist to cater to the needs of our patients, especially if they need guidance and support. Our experts are here and ready to speak to you about any potential concerns you might have and guide you in the right direction, in the direction of healing. Your health is our priority, so do not hesitate to call us today to speak to our specialists!