BioIdentical Hormones Risks and Side Effects

A popular choice among women going through menopause is bioidentical hormones. It is widely assumed to be a safe, “natural” option when dealing with menopause symptoms. However, in recent years, the medical community has spotted certain disadvantes in their use.

Bioidentical hormones have been linked to a range of different side effects in each of their various prescribed forms (estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone). The following article provides a brief synopsis of the consequences resulting from use of bioidentical hormones.

Risks of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)

Although Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) has been widely discussed in the last few years, there is not enough information about the risks of using bioidentical hormones in women. Actually, the major risk is the hype that the use of BHRT has created in many areas, without conclusive studies or any scientific data to affirm its safety. Truth is that BHRT is only considered to be “safer” when compared to HRT. Some of the risks related to bioidentical hormone replacement therapy are:

• Risk of heart attack and other other heart- related conditions.
• Risk of stroke.
• Risk of blood clotting that could ultimately lead to fatal pulmonary embolism.
• Risk of increased triglycerides.

There are some women that at a higher risk if exposed to bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, for example:

• Family history of breast or uterus cancer.
• Family history of blood clots in the veins, legs, or lung.
• Chronic disease of the liver.
• Vaginal bleeding.
• Older women with blood clotting tendency.
• Smokers.

To make things clear, the Endocrine Society has issued an statement explaining their position. They restate that little research has been made and, definitely, more studies need to be done to explore long-term side effects of Biodentical Replacement Therapy in all of its forms: estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.

Bioidentical hormones have been linked to a range of different side effects in each of their various prescribed forms (estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone). The following article provides a brief synopsis of the consequences resulting from use of bioidentical hormones.

Side effects of Bioidentical Estrogen

The side effects associated with using bioidentical estrogen are identical to the side effects of estrogen dominance and may include any or a combination of the following: breakthrough bleeding and spotting; breast enlargement; chest, leg, arm, or groin pain; nausea and vomiting; migraines and headaches; abdominal pain and swelling; rapid weight gain; and  yellowing of the eyes or skin.

Side effects of Bioidentical Progesterone

The side effects of bioidentical progesterone are related to an excessive, imbalanced amount of progesterone in the body and can be particularly severe, including, but not limited to the following.

Quick Fact
	Estrogens can make the body retain fluid, causing swelling in the fingers, ankles, and feet, and possibly raise the blood pressure.

• Increased risk of heart attack
• Blood clots
• Stroke
• Chest pain
• Blurred vision/loss of vision
• Shortness of breath
• Vaginal bleeding

Side effects of Bioidentical Testosterone

Side effects are very likely to occur with the use of bioidentical testosterone. A testosterone imbalance can cause uncomfortable and embarrassing side effects. The list below outlines the symptoms associated with the use of bioidentical testosterone.

• Hives/rashes
• Itching
• Chest tightness
• Swelling
• Breast pain
• Depression/mood swings
• Nausea
• Weight gain
• Poor urinary health

Alternatives to Bioidentical Hormones

Bioidentical hormones are just one of many treatments available for hormonal imbalance. In fact, in a majority of cases bioidentical hormones are not the recommended treatment.  Many women are surprised to learn that a hormonal imbalance can be corrected without the use of supplements.

The easiest and most practical way to address hormonal imbalance is to keep the body fit and healthy. Regular exercise and a health-conscious diet are tremendously influential in stabilizing hormone levels. Because stress is also often a key factor in upsetting hormonal balance, stress reduction techniques like yoga can help to stabilize hormone levels and improve overall health.

While a healthy lifestyle approach should be adopted in all stages of life, alternative medicines have been proven in stabilizing hormone levels. These medicines are often significantly cheaper than natural hormone replacement therapy and take a more direct approach to the issue of hormonal imbalance: they work with the endocrine system to help the body produce its own hormones naturally.

For a better understanding of alternative options, click here to learn more about alternatives to bioidentical hormones replacement therapy.

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