Bioidentical Hormones Vs. Traditional Hormone Therapy: Which one is right for you?

Since the conclusion of the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) study in 2002, many women were left with feelings of mistrust and concern over the use of hormones to relieve the symptoms of aging and menopause. However, in their search for seemingly “safer” alternatives, many women have turned to other methods which may actually be more dangerous. The truth is that not all hormones are created equal. Hormone treatment is still proven to be the most effective method to relieve aging and menopause symptoms, and the emergence of “Bioidentical” hormones has opened the door to a safer, more effective treatment of aging and menopause symptoms. Here’s a rundown of what you should know when it comes to hormones.

“Natural” Does Not Necessarily Mean “Safer”

These days companies make a big deal of labeling things as “all natural” or “derived from natural components,” but what does that really mean? “Natural” could be anything that comes from an animal, plant or mineral, and just because a product comes from these sources does not necessarily make it safe for human consumption. For example, the primary source of estrogen comes from a pregnant mare’s urine in traditional hormone treatments. While it does contain estrogen, when you break it down further, it is not the same as the estrogen that we produce naturally in our bodies.

Breaking it Down: Micronized Hormones

Hormones (whether they are derived from plants or animals) can be broken down into even smaller components through a process called micronization. In the past, hormones were taken from the host source and used as is. Unfortunately, when it comes to hormones, even the tiniest difference between supplements and the body’s own version can cause unwanted side effects.  Bioidentical hormones are composed of micronized hormones that break the hormones down into even smaller elements, allowing them to be combined in a way that matches the body’s natural hormones more precisely.

Absorbtion Methods: Why They Matter

It seems logical to think that as long as some form of the hormone is present, the body will absorb it and it will have the same effect, but that is not the case. For example, estradiol (the form of estrogen that decreases during menopause) is converted to estrone (a “weaker” estrogen) when taken orally, yet enters the bloodstream as estradiol when taken topically.  However, over the counter creams sold as “all natural sources” cannot be converted by the body at all.  Bioidentical hormones are customizable, and allow doctors to control the amount and type of hormones released into the body.

The bottom line is that there is no “one size fits all” for hormone therapy.  Only you and a trained professional can determine the right regimen for you.  Looking for Bioidentical hormone therapy, anti aging therapy or cellulite removal in Los Angeles?  Trust the experienced professionals of Rejuvalife.