Natural Hormone Therapy (Biodentical hormone replacement therapy)

Updated: Jun 18, 2020

Natural Hormone Therapy

As it is known, natural hormone therapy, also known as biodentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), refers to the use of hormones that are identical to the endogenous hormones (generated from within the body) used in hormone replacement therapy. The hormones used primarily include estrone, estradiol, and progesterone.

Quick facts

Biodentical and synthetic hormones have a distinctly different chemical structure. A biodentical hormone has a chemical structure that is identical to the hormones naturally produced in the body. That's why biodentical hormones are referred to as "natural".

Proponents of natural hormone therapy argue that it is more effective treatment of menopause symptoms than the use of non-biodentical hormones. However, there is still conjecture over the validity of these claims. If you are suffering from the symptoms of menopause it is worthwhile educating yourself on some of the treatments available as outlined in the following paragraphs.

Why Might I Need Natural Hormone Therapy?

Natural Hormone Therapy

During menopause, the production of hormones in a woman's body, such as estrogen, starts to slow. As a result of the change in hormone levels women often experience a variety of symptoms including simple aches and pains, hot flashes, forgetfulness, and depression and sleeping difficulties.

Many women in the menopausal age group use complementary therapies like natural hormone therapy in order to help manage their symptoms. Natural hormone therapies are used commonly and safely throughout the United States.

Quick Fact

Estrone, produced from androstenedione, is the predominant estrogen in a woman's body after menopause. When ovarian function declines the fat cells in a woman's body take over the role of synthesizing estrone.

However, it is important to note that not every menopause type symptom suffered by middle aged women is the result of declining hormonal levels, and that natural hormonal therapy is not necessarily necessary a panacea for all symptoms.

Read on for a detailed list of natural menopause treatments currently used.

What Are the Risks?

Whilst the use of this therapy is relatively conventional, there has been conjecture over the perceived benefits of natural hormone therapy. The Food and Drug Administration have released statements declaring there is no expected difference in benefits or risks using biodentical molecules compared to those using non-biodentical molecules.

What natural hormone therapy usually offers:

  • A comprehensive review of symptoms, medical, family and personal history
  • Testing - saliva, urine and/or blood laboratory analysis
  • Natural Hormone balancing
  • Ongoing evaluations
  • Quality compounded pharmacy
  • Highest quality supplements
  • Fitness programs
  • Nutrition planning
  • Stress reduction plans

What natural hormone therapy usually offers:

Overcoming the Obstacles of Hormone Imbalance and Natural Hormone Therapy

Given the broad range of treatments and surgeries available, it can be difficult to weigh up the pros and cons of undertaking natural hormone therapy. Whatever choice you make, it is necessary to keep a healthy and balanced lifestyle - often the first step in relieving menopausal symptoms. In addition there are also a range of alternative treatments which target hormone imbalance in a similar way.